Warwick orgs unite to offer a hopeful message and a place to turn

Suicide is the eleventh leading cause of death in the U.S. It is a global health concern with millions of lives affected each year. It impacts surviving families, friends and entire communities.

One of the primary goals of National Suicide Prevention Month, observed each year in September, is to increase awareness about the prevalence of suicide and its risk factors. It serves as a platform to educate the public about prevention, warning signs and vital information for people affected by suicide. Most importantly, National Suicide Prevention Month elevates the importance of community connection and support. It serves as a reminder that suicide is preventable and that each of us can play a role in saving lives.

“When [Warwick Cares] reached out to fellow local organizations Team Up For Hope, Warwick Valley Prevention Coalition and We the People Warwick about creating a banner of hope to be displayed during National Suicide Prevention Month, the response was an immediate and resounding yes,” said Judy Battista, a Warwick Cares mental health and suicide prevention advocate.

The national suicide and crisis lifeline, 988, provides 24/7, free, confidential support with trained counselors for anyone in a mental health, suicide or substance use crisis as well as resources for oneself or loved ones and best practices for professionals in the U.S. Anyone can call or text 988 and chat is available at 988Lifeline.org.

The collaborative banner, created and sponsored by Warwick Cares (linktr.ee/warwickcaresny), Team Up For Hope (teamupforhope.org), Warwick Valley Prevention Coalition (warwicknyprevention.org) and We the People Warwick (wethepeoplewarwick.org), shares the message of hope that, “You Are Not Alone” and informs the community of the 988 lifeline for mental health, suicide prevention and substance use support.

It was placed across West Street in the village of Warwick in September, is currently in the village of Florida and will continue to travel to locations in Greenwood Lake and the other hamlets of Warwick throughout the year.

“We wanted to offer a message of hope by helping to educate the town in suicide prevention and mental health awareness,” said Hannah Rose McCarthy, Warwick Cares’ suicide prevention advocate and graphic designer. “Working in a collaborative effort of community groups is the best way to address these issues. We want to save lives - and we can all take our part in this mission.”

The four-organization team is asking the community to get involved. If you spot the banner, take a photo and tag any or all four of them on social media.

If you are in crisis or know someone who is, call or text the national lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.