Philippi, WV – Broaddus Hospital’s Senior Life Solutions program is hosting a luminary service for Suicide Awareness in September as part of National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month.
Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in America — it’s the second leading cause for ages 25-34, and the third leading cause for ages 15-24.
“People don’t want to talk about it. It’s frightening,” said Senior Life Solutions Program Director Donetta McVicker, BSN, RN. “We all play a role in working to eradicate suicide and supporting our neighbors who have suffered loss.”
Luminaries are free and can be reserved by calling 304-457-8132, or by emailing mcvicker.donetta@davishealthsystem.org. Requests should be received no later than noon on September 9, 2022.
The luminaries will be lit at 7 pm on Friday, the 9th of September and remain lighted through the morning of September 11. They are placed along the circular portico in front of Broaddus Hospital.
“Some people walk through the luminaries, others drive the circle, or park and just look into the lighted driveway,” said McVicker.
Senior Life Solutions is an intensive outpatient group therapy program designed to help older adults suffering from anxiety and depression often related to aging. Staff assists in creating a plan to increase life satisfaction and mental wellness.
“There is a new suicide awareness hotline. Simply dial 988 anywhere in the United States for access to mental health crisis services,” added McVicker. The number is accessible 24/7 via text, call or chat.
