Episode 18: Suicide awareness

Several of the Parent Engage 360 Podcast episodes over the past two years have discussed and provided resources on the topic of mental health. A topic that has been weaved into that conversation is suicide. Suicide can be a topic that is difficult to discuss, and at times, there can be a stigma, and often, we don’t know how to start the conversation on such an emotional topic. 

In the latest episode of the Parent Engage 360 Podcast, host Liz Burgard, Anoka-Hennepin parent involvement coordinator, sits down with Janet Casperson, an Anoka-Hennepin parent, and Julia Messenger, the district’s school social worker, social-emotional learning teacher on special assignment, to provide additional awareness around the topic of suicide. 

You will hear one mother’s story and how through the loss of her son, Sam, she has become an amazing advocate and resource in our school community. 

For those who need immediate support, you are not alone. 24-hour support is available by phone by calling the National Suicide Prevention Line 1-800-273-8255. Please note, this number will transition to a new three-number 988, starting on July 16, 2022. By text message, contact the crisis text line by texting “MN” to 741741. 

Both services are always available to support the mental health needs of persons in crisis and are offered at no cost.

To learn more about Thumbs Up, a non-profit organization that embraces all those who are struggling and breaking the stigma around mental health, visit thumbsupformentalhealth.org.