June 30, 2022

By Nicki Straza, Youth and Family Engagement Lead

“I just don’t want to be here anymore!” The statement from my 14-year-old struck fear into my heart. Were they really saying what I feared they were saying? I knew they were struggling with depression, but was it really this serious? Were they thinking of suicide? What if they weren’t and by probing I put the idea in their head? What if talking about it pushes them over the edge? What if… what if… So I froze.

Does this scenario feel at all familiar? If so, then I want to encourage you to consider taking our FREE Safe Talk training coming up Friday, February 3rd, 2023. If not, it could be a conversation in your future with someone you care about. Do you feel prepared to have that conversation? Do you know what to say that could be helpful? Then Safe Talk training is also for you.

As a parent who experienced that scenario in real life, I wish I had the tools learned in Safe Talk years before. After taking this training I felt more prepared, I knew what to look for, and I knew where I could go for help.  If you are a friend, neighbour, parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or passing stranger, you may have someone in your circle who would benefit from you knowing the signs of depression and thoughts of suicide. In fact, your small connection could safe a life.

The Brant Engagement Network is proud to present this community Friends and Family training for anyone who is concerned for a child, youth or even adult in their life who struggles with thoughts of suicide. It isn’t an easy thing to talk about, but the tools from this training will help to extinguish the fear and anxiety that comes with not knowing what to do. 

Seating is limited, so RSVP to reserve your space today! Your voice and your connection could make all the difference in saving a life!