#United States #mental health #Plymouth #Suicide Prevention #Kevin's Song

The 9th Annual Kevin's Song Conference on Suicide: Creating & Supporting Lives Worth Living

The Kevin's Song 9th Annual Conference, renowned as Michigan's largest gathering aimed at suicide prevention, is approaching. This significant event will take place from January 23 to 25, 2025, at the luxurious Saint John's Resort in Plymouth, Michigan. Sponsored by Kevin's Song, a charitable organization dedicated to raising awareness about suicide and its prevention, the conference promises to be an enlightening experience for all attendees.

A Comprehensive Agenda

A diverse audience is expected to participate, including educators, mental health professionals, first responders, clergy, suicide prevention advocates, veterans, students, community leaders, and both survivors of suicide loss and attempt survivors. With this year's emphasis on creating a culture in which every individual can appreciate a life worth living, the event is structured across three impactful days:

Day One: Collaboration for Change

The opening day will focus on integrating various stakeholders—schools, youth organizations, and clinicians—to enhance suicide prevention and mental well-being among youth. A highlight of this day is the Saving A Life Award Dinner, which honors individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the community. This reception offers a valuable networking opportunity and showcases the importance of community involvement in addressing mental health issues.

Day Two: Advancing Knowledge

On the second day, attendees will delve into the latest research, risk assessment strategies, and evidence-based practices designed to combat suicide effectively. Participants can expect an informative environment where clinicians and advocates benefit from the sharing of innovative methodologies tailored to elevate lives and reduce the prevalence of suicide.

Day Three: Support for Survivors

The concluding day is dedicated to providing essential resources and support for survivors of suicide loss, helping them navigate their grief and find solace within the community. Following presentations from survivors themselves, attendees are invited to partake in group support sessions aimed at fostering a sense of connection and understanding, easing the pain and isolation often associated with such profound loss.

Additional Training Opportunities

This year's event introduces a new training session titled A Light In the Darkness: Equipping Faith Leaders for Suicide Prevention and Post-Suicide Care. Scheduled to run concurrently with the main conference, this program is specifically tailored for faith leaders such as pastors, chaplains, and other spiritual figures, equipping them with the tools to address suicide within their communities. The training aims to combat stigma and promote supportive actions towards individuals affected by suicide.

In addition to the main conference sessions, a Pre-Conference Training Day will be held on January 22, 2025, offering educational opportunities for clinicians. Topics include safeTALK, AMSR, Youth Mental Health First Aid, QPR training, and CAMS-care. Participants can register for these sessions through Kevin's Song’s official website for more detailed information.

Registration Information

The conference offers various registration options:

• - Three-day pass: $450
• - Two-day pass: $425
• - Single-day pass: $225
• - Saturday Survivor Program: $40
• - Special rates are available for students.

To register or learn more about the conference, interested individuals can visit www.kevinssong.org or contact the conference office at (313) 236-7109.

Conclusion

Kevin's Song is dedicated to enhancing public awareness surrounding the causes of suicide and the vital importance of prevention. By fostering connections among various community members, the organization strives to create a supportive and informed environment dedicated to mental health advocacy. The 9th Annual Conference promises to foster meaningful discussions, share valuable insights, and build a united front in the fight against suicide, emphasizing that every life truly is worth living.