The Sno-Isle Library System hosts a series called “Issues That Matter”, and their most recent topic dealt with teen suicide. This important forum was moderated by Mayor Jennifer Gregerson with panelists Liza Patchen-Short, Children’s Mental Health Liaison with Snohomish County Human Services; Wendy Burchill, Healthy Communities Specialist, Snohomish Health District; Rena Fitzgerald, Crisis Chat Senior Program Manager, Volunteers of America Western Washington; and Riley Kizziar, 2016 Kamiak High School graduate.
“Sharing ways to prevent suicide can save lives,” said Mayor Gregerson. Many in the audience shared their experiences with death by suicide by family members or friends, and some teachers and para-educators from the Mukilteo School District have received suicide-prevention training. Teens who identify as LGBTQ have a high rate of suicide from bullying and persecution; GLOBE (GLTBQ Loving Ourselves, Becoming Empowered) is a local youth support group that meets every Wednesday from 6 – 8pm in Everett.
This 1-1/2 hour video is now available for viewing by click on this You-Tube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBkL7fGZY9Q
