NAMI: Hope starts here

Suicide affects families, workplaces, schools, and neighborhoods across our community, yet many people are unsure how to recognize a crisis or respond when someone may be at risk. Open conversation, practical training, and timely connection to help can make a meaningful difference.

NAMI Coeur d’Alene and North Idaho College are co-hosting a Mental Health Series topic of Suicide Awareness & Prevention, a community presentation designed to build awareness and confidence around suicide prevention. Guest speaker Lynn Acebedo, Chief Deputy Coroner for Kootenai County, will share local data and insights to help attendees better understand suicide trends, risk factors, warning signs, and protective factors in our area.

The presentation will also include QPR—Question, Persuade, Refer—training. Participants will learn how to ask directly about suicide, listen without judgment, encourage a person to seek help, and connect someone at risk with professional and crisis resources. Like CPR, QPR gives ordinary people practical skills they can use when a timely response matters. The session will also introduce available local and crisis resources.

This event is for community members, caregivers, educators, faith leaders, and anyone who wants to be better prepared to support others. By learning the warning signs, reducing stigma, and practicing compassionate conversations, each of us can help create a safer, more connected community. We encourage local residents to attend, learn, and become a source of hope for someone who may be struggling.

If you are, or someone you know is in crisis, please call 988 for help.

JILL AINSWORTH

NAMI Cd’A Executive Director