USAFV's flyer on Suicide Prevention

Unalaskans Against Sexual Assault & Family Violence (USAFV) held the 5^thAnnual “Make A Difference” dinner for suicide prevention and awareness Saturday, October 4th. About 50 people attended the event.  This year’s dinner was a little different; instead of having a panel of professionals answering questions, dinner attendees were asked to visit at least 5 of 7 tables and take part in an activity. The activities included a short quiz; a “drawing feelings” exercise; watching a short video; naming local resources; and practicing talking about difficult subjects. The tables were staffed by representatives of USAFV and their community partners, including the Iliuliuk Family & Health Services Medical and Behavioral Health Programs, the APIA Behavioral Health Program, the Unalaska City School District, the Unalaska Department of Public Safety. Young people who attended the event were asked to write pledges describing how they can make a difference in our community.

The goal of the event, said USAFV Executive Director M. Lynn Crane, was to decrease the stigma associated with depression, suicide, and other mental health issues; to increase awareness of local resources; and to encourage people to practice talking about difficult subjects. USAFV would like to thank IFHS, APIA, the Unalaska City School District, the Unalaska Department of Public Safety, and the United States Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment for their support and assistance in making this event a success. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide, help is available. Contact the IFHS Behavioral Health Program at 581-1202, the APIA Behavioral Health Program at 581-2751, the Unalaska Department of Public Safety at 581-1233, or USAFV’s 24-hour Crisis Line at 581-1500.