Calling All Speakers
We are seeking panel participants for Fighting the Darkness, a moderated community conversation focused on suicide prevention and mental health.
This panel brings together individuals with professional experience and lived experience to share perspectives, support open dialogue, and engage with audience questions.
Moderator
Bringing together diverse voices on such a difficult topic can feel overwhelming, but it also creates an opportunity for connection and understanding. The goal is to guide the discussion, invite audience questions, and foster a safe space for open, honest dialogue about suicide and its impact.
First Responder
When someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts and 911 is called the police are usually the first to respond which leaves the person feeling like it is a crime to being fighting a battle inside of their head. The goal is to provide the perspective of the First Responder and explain what happens when the police are dispatched to a suicide call. First responders are also at high risk for suicide attempts, what are some ways the general public can assist with this.
Therapist/Crisis Counselor
There has been a lot stigma associated with seeing a therapist/counselor due to the fear of being seen as “crazy”. This is often intensified when you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, especially with the fear of being hospitalized or “locked up” which makes it difficult for people to reach out for help. The goal for this panel is to help reduce the fear associated with seeking professional help by talking about really happens when you talk with a therapist and admit you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, including have a plan to end your life.
Pastor
Traditionally the church has held a very negative view of suicide. What are some of the ways that has changed? What happens when someone comes to you when they are struggling with suicidal thoughts?
Suicide Loss Survivor
Losing a family member is always difficult, particularly when it is an unexpected death. The stigma associated with suicide doesn’t only impact those who have attempted but also their family members.
Can you please share your experience as someone that has lost a family member to suicide?
Did people who knew treat you differently?
Suicide Attempt Survivor
Typically when the term “Suicide Survivor” is used people are exclusively referring to the Loss Survivors whereas an Attempt Survivor is often referred to as an “Attempter.” Based on my personal experience there is a lot of assumptions made about people who have attempted and/or died by suicide that cause more harm. Often times I have heard people say that we need to teach people to have more resilience.
That suicide is the coward’s way out or a selfish act. It is not something that can be truly understood until you have experienced it for yourself but the goal is to share my story in an attempt to help people recognize the importance of talking openly and honestly about suicide.
