Youth Suicide: Bridging the Gap from Silence to Hope

Event Details

About This Event

Suicide has been the second leading cause of death for young Hoosiers ages 15-24 since 2009. Indiana ranks 3rd out of 36 states in the percentage of students who seriously considered attempting suicide. Working with youth who may be considering suicide can be difficult. Emotional distress may lead youth to contemplate suicide or engage in suicidal behavior. To help, it is important to recognize the warning signs of suicidal intentions. Information and education can empower all people, regardless of background, to make a difference in the life of someone they know. 

This presentation will provide tools to bridge the gap from the silence of emotional distress to the voice of hope. Participants will learn how to navigate conversations with youth about suicide and recovery. 

Speakers

  • Brooke Ammerman, Ph.D.

    University of Notre Dame

    Dr. Ammerman is an Assistant Professor at the University of Notre Dame.  She received her doctorate from Temple University and completed her clinical residency at VA Puget Sound.  Her research and clinical interests focus on self-injury and suicidal thoughts and behaviors, with the goal of improving prevention and intervention efforts for high-risk populations.

  • Sarah Graham MA, LSW

    Licensed School Counselor, Co-Director of Counseling Warsaw Community Schools

    Sarah earned bachelor’s degrees in social work and criminal justice, and master degrees in Community and School Counseling. Sarah has experience in community corrections and community mental health. She is in her 15th year in school counseling. Sarah also published a children’s book in 2014. In 2015, Sarah had the honor of being named the Indiana High School Counselor of the Year. Sarah is passionate about suicide prevention and the social-emotional health of students.