Director of the Lincoln County Prevention Coalition, Brittany Ritter, says the organization will hold a special event in honor of Survivor of Suicide Loss Day on Saturday November 20th.

She says this day is recognized internationally and the special event will be held at the Afton Civic Center from 10:30 AM to 12 PM. She says this will allow people who have experienced this loss to come together and find support.

“We know that we have significant numbers of people (in Lincoln County) who have been affected by suicide loss sometime in their life,” Ritter said. “We want to open those doors to help them find connections in the community and those who have walked a mile in their shoes per se.”

This will also allow them to share some of their feelings and also get the extra help they may need. She says there will be additional resources that will be offered to people as well. There will also be a short 30 minute video the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention will provide. She also says mental health professional will be in attendance as well.

She says those coming will not only be helping themselves.

“But also you’re helping somebody else too,” Ritter said. “Sharing what you’ve gone through as a suicide loss survivor may be that little token that helps somebody else with a recent loss get through their struggle.”

This can be helping individuals find ways to cope with their loss and “provide comfort and hope”.

She also says if you’re experiencing any suicidal thoughts or have loved-ones dealing with this as well to reach out to local resources. She highlights High Country Behavioral Health in Kemmerer which will allow you to connect with a license mental health professional. She says Star Valley Health has these experts as well.

If you may not feel comfortable going in-person there is the 1-800-TALK-NOW Wyoming Suicide Hotline. It is open 24 hours a day and seven days a week. You can also text into the texting line at 741-741 and you will be connected to a licensed counselor.

She says you can also visit Lincoln County Prevention’s website here. You can also visit the WY We Talk website here.