BEDFORD – As Suicide Awareness Month draws to a close, the small community of Bedford, Indiana, is reaffirming its commitment to mental health support and suicide prevention. Local leaders, educators, and community members are emphasizing the importance of reaching out to those in need and providing resources for individuals struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts.
Mark Hudelson, youth pastor at Mount Pleasant Christian Church, highlights the crucial role of community and support systems in combating mental health issues. “As a church, Mt. Pleasant seeks to provide spaces that support young people and give them opportunities to get connected to a healthy community,” Hudelson said. “I believe the best steps that families, churches, and our city could take would be to encourage students that are struggling with depression to seek the help of a mental health professional and to get connected to a community of peers and adults that will support them.”
Matthew Canada, principal at Bedford North Lawrence High School, echoes the importance of creating a supportive environment for students. “Teen mental health experiences are real,” Canada said. “At BNL, we aim to connect students who share indicators of mental health concerns with caring adults and encourage positive peer relationships.”
Kelly Clark, a social worker counselor at BNL, emphasizes the need for open communication and understanding. “High school can be a challenging time for students, and I believe the transition from middle school to high school can be especially trying for incoming freshmen,” Clark said. “However, I believe the biggest challenge BNL faces is the volume of students seeking mental health services.”
Clark urges families and the community to listen to young people and let them know that help is available. “Have real conversations about what is going on in their lives, engage in active listening, and let them know they are heard,” Clark said. “It is also important to let them know that there is no shame in needing help. My favorite phrase right now is ‘It is okay, not to be okay.'”
Bedford North Lawrence High School has implemented various initiatives to support students’ mental health, including telehealth programs, partnerships with local organizations, and anonymous reporting systems. The school’s staff is committed to recognizing students in crisis and providing the necessary support.
As Suicide Awareness Month comes to a close, the Bedford community remains dedicated to fostering a culture of understanding, support, and mental health awareness. By reaching out to those in need and providing resources, the community can make a significant impact on the lives of individuals struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts.
Resources:
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- Centerstone 24/7 crisis line: 1-800-832-5442
- Bloomington Meadows: 1-800-972-4410
- Serenity Now: 812-275-4053
- Family Matters: 812-278-8707
- Stone City Counseling: 812-279-4673
- Ireland Home Based Services – Community Partners Program: 1-877-403-0380
