Coleman Continues Campaign for September’s National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month

Against COVID Backdrop of Heightened Stress and Anxiety, Coleman Launches Awareness/Prevention Campaign and Continues Telehealth Virtual Sessions 

You are not invisible. We see you. We believe you. We can help.

These are the words of the suicide awareness and prevention campaign launched by Coleman Professional Services to encourage people struggling with mental health and other issues to seek help – and to educate their loved ones on what to do if they see the warning signs.

Coleman Professional Services, founded in Kent, OH,  offers comprehensive behavioral health, residential, employment and supportive services to several counties across the state of Ohio and their surrounding communities. 

With support and partnership from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Coleman is spreading the message across all media and in their locations that hope – and help – is available. Stress and anxiety compounded by the impact of the pandemic make it even more important for the community to be aware of Coleman’s much needed services.  

Following CDC recommendations in response to COVID-19, Coleman continues to offer telehealth virtual visits for counseling and psychiatry sessions for clients who are more comfortable conducting virtual sessions instead of coming into offices.

“People with mental health and substance use issues often feel so enclosed by their struggles,”  says Hattie Tracy, Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations. “We want them to know that they are not invisible. They are seen, valued and our clinicians are ready to listen and help.”

She adds, “Our increased efforts to make more people aware of our services could not be more timely.”

Since March, most Americans have experienced sheltering-in-place and quarantine. The resulting fear, isolation, job losses – in addition to fear of contracting COVID 19 – have caused stress and anxiety that can increase conditions like depression and substance use disorder that can lead to suicide.

Examples: 

• In June, a New England Journal of Medicine study revealed that gun owners are four times as likely to die by suicide than people without guns – a condition worsened by COVID-19. Americans bought nearly 2 million guns in March, 2020 – the 2nd highest total in decades.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (C.D.C.) released an August survey: 18- to 24-year-olds reported the highest levels of symptoms of anxiety and depression, and a quarter of them said they had seriously considered suicide.
• Assisted living facility directors reported that COVID prohibitions of group meals, group activities and visitors resulted in more residents with depression and suicidal thoughts.

“Coleman’s suicide awareness campaign is created to bring hope through education, empathy and availability,” says Hattie Tracy, Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations. “We are available 24/7 to help people.”

Background

About Grant Awarded to Coleman
Coleman was awarded a grant by Zero Suicide, an advocacy group that believes suicide deaths for individuals under the care of health and behavioral health systems are preventable. Coleman has launched an awareness campaign across all media platforms to dispel myths, encourage treatment and provide hope for those with mental illness who often fall through the cracks in our healthcare system. 

About National Suicide Prevention Week
National Suicide Prevention Week (NSPW) is an annual week-long campaign in the United States to inform and engage health professionals and the general public about suicide prevention and warning signs of suicide. The campaign also strives to reduce the stigma surrounding suicide to encourage mental health assistance and support. NSPW is sponsored by the American Association of Suicidology. 

About Coleman Professional Services
Founded in 1978, Coleman Professional Services is a nationally recognized non-profit provider of mental health, substance use, residential and rehabilitation services. It is the mission of Coleman Professional Services to improve the lives of people it serves; regardless of their ability to pay. Coleman supports and empowers its employees through continuous improvement. For more information, visit ColemanServices.org.