Live to Tell: Saving Lives in Memphis Shelby County Suicide Prevention Conference

Each day we lose three Tennesseans to suicide, now the ninth leading cause of death in Tennessee. In 2017, there were 142 youth deaths by suicide, representing the twentyfour (10-24) age group, with 51 of these representing children between the ages of ten to seventeen (10- 17). Suicide by children increased by 24.4 percent from 2016 to 2017; and more alarmingly, suicide by children increased by 54.5 percent from 2015 to 2017.  The Tennessee Department of Health's Office of Health Statistics reports there were 1,163 recorded suicide deaths in Tennessee in 2017, up from 1,110 the previous year. The suicide rate increased from 16.7 to 17.3 per 100,000. Suicide was the tenth leading cause of death in Tennessee during 2014 – 2016.   Awareness and education is key to preventing suicide.  “One death by suicide is one death too many,” said Scott Ridgway, Executive Director. "Hopefullness is one warning sign for those considering sucide- Suicide is preventable, and anyone can foster hope and connect someone to care they may need.  At this years conference, we will focus on those who have lived to tell their journey.  We hope you join us to learn more about prevention efforts in West TN. This conference will give healthcare providers, mental health workers, school staff and the general public a more in-depth understanding of suicide. Local city and county mayors have been invited to present Suicide Prevention Awareness Month proclamations.  Local mental health and crisis intervention resources will be availabe.  Networking opportunities the morning of the event and throughout the event you will meet our sponsors who can share with you there resources.  Together we can make a difference in the lives of others.   5 CEUs will be provided thanks to our sponsor: Lakeside Behavioral Health.  All participates will receive a certificate of completion including 5 contact hours.   Each Sponsor will be providing scholarships for upto 25 participants per Sponsorship .  If you would like a scholarship, please email tgurley@tspn.org to determine availalbity.    For questions contact Tosha Gurley, West TN Director at tgurley@tspn.org                                            Thank You to Our Sponsors! Hope Church   Lakeside Behavioral Health Memphis Crisis Center  United Healthcare