September is Suicide Prevention Month, opens a new window (SPM), which includes National Suicide Prevention Week, opens a new window (September 8-14) and World Suicide Prevention Day, opens a new window (September 10). SPM aims to empower everyone in the community to prevent suicide.
This year, San Mateo County Libraries and Peninsula Library System, opens a new window partnered with the San Mateo County Health Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, opens a new window (BHRS) along with other local agencies and support organizations to promote the theme of interpersonal connectedness (positive relationships between individuals).
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, opens a new window (CDC) confirms that studies show that connectedness is overall an important protective factor for suicide and states, “[c]onnectedness between individuals can lead to increased frequency of social contact, lowered levels of social isolation or loneliness, and an increased number of positive relationships.”
Events at San Mateo County Libraries
Free events, such as support groups, workshops, and film screenings, will be held all over San Mateo County so there is something for everyone. The events at San Mateo County Libraries will focus on bullying among youth and isolation among older adults.
Bullying Prevention Skills for Tweens and Teens (Adults/Parents 18+)
In this workshop, you will learn early intervention strategies for preventing social behaviors that adversely affect your teen. The workshop will also cover tactics for intervening in and recovering from bullying incidents. You will gain strategies for building social, emotional, and communication skills for your child in middle and high school to prevent involvement with bullying behaviors. Susan Stone from Parents Place in Palo Alto will be presenting.
- Monday, September 16 at 6:00 PM at Brisbane Library
- Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00 PM at Millbrae Library
- Tuesday, September 24 at 6:30 PM at Foster City Library
- Monday, September 30 at 7:00 PM at Belmont Library
Cyberbullying
Join StarVista, opens a new window for a presentation and conversation about cyberbullying and bullying. The workshop will cover the impact of bullying on young people and children, signs that a child might be bullied, and ways to intervene if you are concerned about a child in your life.
Preventing Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults
Find out how to combat isolation and loneliness with social interactions through programs such as Peninsula Family Services' Senior Peer Counseling, opens a new window. The program works to ensure that no one faces the challenges of aging alone. Specially-trained volunteer counselors provide weekly visits to adults 55+ to help manage transitions and life changes such as health concerns, mobility issues, caregiver needs, and grief.
- Monday, September 23 at 7:00 PM at San Carlos Library
- Tuesday, September 24 at 6:00 PM at Atherton Library
For more events happening in San Mateo County, download and share the 2019 SPM Calendar of Events, opens a new window.
Resources at the Library
Check out these books on suicide prevention, bullying, and lived experiences.
The Bully, the Bullied, and the Not-so-innocent Bystander
The Survival Guide to Bullying
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please reach out to these 24/7 crisis hotlines:
- StarVista Crisis Hotline (San Mateo County) - (650) 579-0350
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - (800) 273-TALK (8255) and/or Crisis Text Line - Text “Home” to 741741.
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