The Samaritans on Cape Cod and the Islands

Check out this fun and thoughtful illustration by Positively Present that brings some levity to this season! 🎃👻 With ghosts, witches, and pumpkins representing habits we all want to stop—like fearing the unknown, poisoning our thoughts, and letting others drain our energy—it’s a lighthearted reminder to protect our mental well-being. As we approach the holidays, let’s focus on self-care and building healthy habits. Remember, it's okay to let go of what’s haunting you. 💛 #MentalHealthMatters #SelfCare #SuicidePrevention #LetGoOfTheGhosts

☎️ In our Senior Outreach program, outgoing calls are made by Samaritans-trained volunteers to isolated or at-risk older adults, once or twice a week. Conversations are confidential and provide a safe place for older adults to talk about whatever is troubling them most without fear of judgment or repercussion. The program is free and available to any individual, aged 55 years or older. Learn more at: https://lnkd.in/dP5Ytrqu #SeniorSupport #SuicidePrevention #AgingAdult #OlderAdult #Loneliness

Our team had the incredible opportunity to attend the 988 Region 1 Conference in Boston on September 17-18. It was a chance for Janell (Crisis Line Manager) and Jessamyn (Crisis Line Coordinator) to connect with other centers in the Northeast and learn from some truly inspiring speakers. Toy Burton, founder of DeeDee's Cry, shared her powerful story as a suicide loss and attempt survivor, reminding us that “The more we say it out loud; say ‘suicide’ out loud, the more we break the stigma.” We left the conference feeling hopeful and energized, ready to strengthen our partnerships and enhance our services for the community. #988 #SuicidePrevention Read more on our In the Community page: https://lnkd.in/eTYs7UHR

How does it feel in the aftermath of losing a loved one to suicide? How can we bear the grief, guilt, and unanswered questions as we rebuild our lives? A mother who lost her son to suicide blogs about what she deems the “mourner’s path,” chronicling her grief and growth as a suicide loss survivor: https://lnkd.in/ekG5AGTe #LossSurvivor #Survivor #Grief #SuicideLoss #SuicideLossSurvivor

Did you know? We are always available to provide educational presentations, training, and suicide prevention materials to members of our community. Whether it’s a local business, school, community group, faith institution, health and human services agency, book club, or other group that’s looking for more information, we believe every opportunity to work directly in the community helps strengthen our region’s ability to prevent suicides. Please complete this request form if your group would like to learn more about suicide prevention and how to help save lives: https://lnkd.in/eUPEypXZ #SuicidePreventionTraining #CapeCodTraining #CapeCodWorkshop #SuicidePrevention

🌎 Today, on #IndigenousPeoplesDay, we honor the resilience, cultures, and histories of Indigenous peoples. But we must also recognize the mental health challenges many Indigenous communities face. In 2022, non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native people had a suicide rate 91% greater than the general population (Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Historical trauma, systemic inequities, and lack of mental health resources continue to impact these communities. By supporting Indigenous mental health and advocating for culturally competent care, we can foster hope and healing. 💙

🌈 On #NationalComingOutDay, we celebrate the courage it takes to live authentically. But we also recognize that coming out is a deeply personal decision—one that should be made when it feels right for you. For many in the LGBTQ+ community, the road can be difficult. Tragically, LGBTQ+ youth are more than 4x as likely to attempt suicide than their peers, with even more disparties for LGBTQ+ youth of color (Source: The Trevor Project). No matter where you are on your journey, know that you are not alone. We’re here to support you, whether you’ve come out or are still finding your way. Find more information and resources from The Trevor Project at https://lnkd.in/eXW4aTCg

🧠 World Mental Health Day & National Depression Screening Day 🧠 Today is a powerful reminder that mental health matters—for everyone. Did you know that over 280 million people globally suffer from depression, according to the World Health Organization? Yet, many don't or can’t seek the support they need. Take a moment today to check in on yourself and your loved ones. Early detection can make all the difference. 🌟 Take a free, confidential depression screening through Mental Health America: https://lnkd.in/ervvs6C #WorldMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthMatters #EndTheStigma #YouAreNotAlone

🕊️ October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. We recognize the profound potential connections between domestic violence and suicide. #1Thing about domestic violence is that it can affect anyone. For survivors of domestic violence, the trauma of abuse can lead to overwhelming feelings of fear, hopelessness, and isolation. We stand in solidarity with those impacted by domestic violence and are committed to providing the support they need to heal and find hope. If you feel like you are experiencing abuse, reach out to an advocate at National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE or 1-800-787-3224 TTY or chat online at thehotline.org, or by texting LOVEIS to 22522. If you or someone you love is in crisis, reach out. You are never alone, and there is help available. 💜[PIC]

Last month during #WorldSuicidePreventionDay, we gathered with the Cape & Islands Suicide Prevention Coalition at Cape Cod Community College to honor lives lost to suicide and renew our commitment to prevention, hope, and healing. The event featured a membership meeting, a resource area, community building, and many heartfelt moments. A special thank you to Stephanie Kelly (Executive Director), David Ricardi (Board Member), Susan Ricardi (Office Manager), and Janell Hofmann (Crisis Line Manager) for your presence and dedication. One of the most poignant moments was our Board member David Ricardi placing a ribbon in remembrance of his son, Anthony—a reminder of why we continue this vital work. 💛 [PICS]