On Tuesday, Berks County middle and high school students who actively participate in Mental Health Awareness, Mental Health Support, and Aevidum clubs and organizations had the opportunity to hear from nationally recognized speaker and author Kevin Hines at the Miller Center for the Arts at the Reading Area Community College. The lunchtime event featured a presentation and Q&A session where Mr. Hines shared his personal story of attempting suicide by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge, and his journey towards healing and recovery. His life-saving message of hope was the focus for youth of Berks County.
Kevin Hines is one of only 36 people to survive the fall from the Golden Gate Bridge and now travels the world to share his message of wellness, resilience, and the power of human connection. The event, which took place on World Suicide Prevention Day, was hosted by the Berks County Office of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities (MH/DD) Program, Threshold Rehabilitation Services, Inc., and the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU).
In addition to Mr. Hines’ presentation, school clubs and mental health teams had the opportunity to showcase their work and resources related to mental health awareness and support.
Dr. Sara George, Assistant Director for Student Services and K-12 Education, BCIU, who helped organize the event shared, “Prioritizing mental health awareness and support in our schools is crucial for the well-being of our students. Events like this, which provide students direct access to inspiring stories and resources, empower them to take an active role in fostering a culture of openness and resilience. The work our students and staff are doing through school clubs and mental health teams is making a real difference, and this event was an invaluable opportunity for them to share their important efforts with the community.”
Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among people aged 15 to 24 in the U.S. Nearly 20 percent of high school students report serious thoughts of suicide, with 9 percent making an attempt, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
For the suicide and crisis hotline, dial 988, or Berks County residents can contact the Holcomb Crisis Center at 610-379-2007.
