In a powerful demonstration of unity and support, church, school, and community members gathered for a suicide prevention seminar on May 24, held at the Hillview church. The seminar was organized by the South Bahamas Conference Education Department and the Adventist Educators’ Association. Its purpose was to break the silence around mental health struggles, and those in attendance wore shades of orange, which is the color that is recognized in the Bahamas to represent suicide prevention.

The event featured guest presenters, Psychiatrist Dr. Sean Knowles and Clinical Psychologist Dr. Stephanie Hutcheson, who shared facts surrounding suicide and mental health in the Bahamas and offered tools and support for those affected by suicide and those hoping to prevent it.

Dr. Knowles said, " We need to come now to a point starting from fifth grade, no later than sixth grade, where we have a mental health curriculum to help to change the culture of mental health in this nation."

"Because if we do nothing again that this generation alpha is going to perpetuate the same cycles of mental illness and trauma that we have failed to deal with," he added.

Dr. Hutcheson reminded the audience to check on and support family and friends who may be depressed.

She said, "Stress, anxiety, depression, they don't always show up in the ways that others can see. But that doesn't mean they aren't real. Check on the strong ones."

One of the most emotional moments came when individuals shared their personal stories, turning grief into action and awareness. The seminar concluded with a question-and-answer period with Drs. Knowles and Hutcheson. Local Pastor Authur Anguilla lauded the seminar for its efforts to bring awareness to mental health issues like suicide. 

Anguilla said, "The information today was very pertinent because we're living in a world where a lot of us have mental health issues, [especially] young adults."

As mental health continues to take center stage, events like this are a reminder: help is available, and hope is real. If you or someone you know is struggling, contact The Bahamas Crisis Center at 242-328-0922 or Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre at 242-364-9600.

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