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A Reason to Live

Exploring Teen and Young Adult Depression and Suicide.

Documentary excerpt screening & discussion panel


Held September 12, 2024

 

 

We hosted a screening of A Reason to Live, a powerful documentary on teen and young adult depression and suicide. It featured honest and introspective stories of despair and hope, shedding light on the mental illness behind the second leading cause of death among 15–24 year olds. The screening was followed by a panel discussion on suicide prevention and mental wellness.

Panel discussion on suicide prevention and mental wellness.


Moderator

Dr. Carrie Alexander-Albritton
Professor, Department of Counselor Education, College Student Personnel, and Social Work
Western Illinois University

Discussion Panel

Comprised of Western Illinois University Department of Education Clinical Mental Health Counseling interns, including: Leah Jorgensen, Rachael Kelley, Will Rice, and Annulka Willard

Regional Resources

 

Trailer

 

About the Film

Youth Today wrote "This sensitive, carefully constructed film leaves an unforgettable impression. From bleak moments to rays of hope, it tells the truth."

A Reason to Live is a documentary on teen and young adult depression and suicide, featuring 12 personal stories from diverse young people and their families. Filmmakers Allen and Cynthia Salzman Mondell created it after a friend’s son died by suicide. With input from crisis line professionals and mental health experts, the film sensitively portrays depression while offering guidance on recognizing warning signs and seeking help.

Every day 20 young people die by suicide in the United States.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

 

Need help or know someone who does?

Call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Suicide Awareness & Prevention

 

Seeing the Signs of Suicide

Shining a light on this difficult topic can destigmatize suicide while revealing that there is help as well as hope for those at risk and their loved ones.

Understanding Suicide: Seeing the Signs

Suicide prevention experts agree that you don’t need to be a doctor or trained professional to recognize the signs of suicide in friends or loved ones.

How Do I Ask if Someone is Ok?

Facing Suicide creates a space of understanding, hope, and action for young people whose lives have been impacted by suicide.

 

Chasing the Dream: Suicide

Chasing the Dream takes a look at suicide, and the effect it has on family members and loved ones. Karen Heisig, with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and Deborah Duffek, a suicide prevention advocate, share their experience with losing someone to suicide.

 

Facing Suicide, Teen Suicide

The story of Abby Shaffer, a student who's personal struggles with depression led her to becoming and advocate for suicide prevention.

Facing Suicide

The documentary shines a light on this difficult topic can destigmatize suicide while revealing that there is help as well as hope for those at risk and their loved ones.

 

How Do I Ask For Help If I’m Thinking About Suicide?

Creating a space of understanding, hope, and action for young people whose lives have been impacted by suicide, including those who have experienced a suicidal crisis and the loved ones, peers, and community who support them.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

 

Need help or know someone who does?

Call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

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