More Than Sad: Upcoming AFSP program aims to help parents recognize signs of depression and suicidal thoughts

Posted on by Mike Fuhrman

Special to IFN

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s (AFSP) More Than Sad program aims to enhance mental health awareness and prevent teen suicide.

The More Than Sad program is scheduled to take place in Statesville on Sunday, August 4, at First Presbyterian Church. Susan Tolle, an educator, volunteer, and advocate with the AFSP, will lead the event.

The program, which begins at 6:30 p.m., is open to the public and intends to provide essential knowledge and tools to support children’s mental health.

“We offer More Than Sad as a program to help all parents understand the risk factors and warning signscof self-harm,” Tolle explained. “These risk factors may include the absence of parental support, parental loss during childhood, or the influence of alcohol or substance abuse on a child’s suicidal behavior.”

The initiative aims to equip parents and guardians with the knowledge to recognize signs of depression and suicidal thoughts, promoting early intervention and reducing stigma. Having the More Than Sad program available locally is especially significant. It allows families to access vital training and resources, fostering a more informed and supportive environment.

“The role of the family in helping teens and children with suicidal ideation cannot be underestimated in today’s world,” Tolle said.

More Than Sad empowers community members to proactively address these critical issues by providing practical tools and fostering open dialogue about mental health, thereby helping protect our youth’s well-being.

First Presbyterian Church is located at 125 N. Meeting Street in Statesville.

Are you in a crisis?

Call or text 988 or text TALK to 741741

Central Piedmont Out of Darkness Walk for Suicide Prevention

Date: Sunday, September 29
On-Site Registration Starts: 1 p.m.
Program Starts: 2 p.m.
Location: Statesville High School Stadium, 474 N Center Street, Statesville

LEARN MORE
For information on More Than Sad or the Out of Darkness Walk, contact Susan Tolle at 704-450-6162 or
bstolle@bellsouth.net

1 thought on “More Than Sad: Upcoming AFSP program aims to help parents recognize signs of depression and suicidal thoughts”

  1. Jan Ambrose says:

    It is crucial that parents or guardians learn to recognize that their teens or children might be considering taking their life. More Than Sad, led by Susan Tolle, provides vital information on recognizing the signs and acting on them before experiencing a suicide attempt or the tragedy of actually succeeding in taking their life, which is too painful to even process. Please plan to attend the 6:30 session on August 4, held at First Presbyterian Church at 125 N. Meeting Street.

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