Film and Community Event to Focus on Suicide, Mental Health and Finding Hope
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — a dedicated time to come together to talk about suicide. In the U.S., 20 young people die by suicide every day. By raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention, we also celebrate life and promote hope.
CentraCare is proud to co-sponsor two free community events, featuring the documentary film, My Ascension. The film tells the story of 16-year-old Emma Benoit, whose suicide attempt left her paralyzed, but propelled her on a mission to use her painful experience to help others find hope.
My Ascension was created to inspire and educate audiences, while providing a spark to help save lives and enhance prevention efforts. The film features not just Emma’s story, but those of two other young people who tragically did not survive their suicide attempts.
By sharing these stories, it is hoped that the stigma of mental health can be lessened and we can talk more openly about suicide, anxiety and depression within our families, schools and communities.
Each community event includes a resource fair, screening of the film and panel discussion. Even though the event is free, registration is required due to limited seating. Masking and social distancing will be required at these events. View the details below for more information on each event:
Mon., Sept. 20 at the Monticello Community Center - 505 Walnut Street, Monticello
5 – 5:30 pm: Doors open, Community Resource Fair
5:30 – 7:15 pm: Welcome, screening of My Ascension
7:15 – 8:15 pm: Panel discussion on mental health, suicide and stigma
Learn more: Review more information about the Monticello event and register
Mon., Sept. 27 at the Great River Regional Library - 1300 West St. Germain Street., St. Cloud
5 – 5:30 pm: Doors open, Community Resource Fair
5:30 – 7:15 pm: Welcome, screening of My Ascension
7:15 – 8:15 pm: Panel discussion on mental health, suicide and stigma
Learn more: Review more information about the St. Cloud event and register
View our Suicide Prevention page for more information about ongoing suicide prevention efforts in Central Minnesota, find resources for those in need of help and a full list of Suicide Prevention Month events.