Greetings!

During September we recognized National Suicide Prevention Month. After a two-year decline, provisional data shows suicide rates in the U.S. increased in 2021. As we begin a new school year, let’s rise to the occasion and address these preventable tragedies head on.

To that end, here’s what I’ve been focused on:

Serving as a Juror for Shine Global’s First-Ever Children’s Resilience in Film Award

Shine Global is a non-profit media company that gives voice to children and their families by telling their stories of resilience to raise awareness, promote action, and inspire change. I’m excited to serve as a juror for the first-ever Children’s Resilience in Film Award, to be announced at Paramount Pictures Studios in Los Angeles, California on October 20. You can find more information regarding this exciting award and Shine Global’s terrific work here. 

Keynote for Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide’s Women of Wonder Luncheon

On September 22, I delivered a keynote speech at Navesink Country Club for the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTSUSA). Stakeholders and leaders in women’s holistic health and wellness gathered to discuss National Suicide Prevention Month, and how we can best leverage today’s momentum to cultivate a better tomorrow. To learn more about SPTSUSA’s great work, click here.

Fireside Chat for New Jersey’s Department of Human Services Suicide Prevention Conference

Following the tradition set by the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, the Suicide Prevention Committee will host the annual Suicide Prevention Conference virtually on October 12. I’m honored to be speaking with DHS Commissioner Sarah Adelman during this year’s conference. We will discus current and planned initiatives to reduce stigma, offer support, and prevent suicide. Register to view our conversation for free here.