KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. — Kenosha County Behavioral Health Services will host two community suicide-prevention training sessions later this month as the county reports a recent increase in people who have died by suicide.
The “Know the Signs, Ask the Questions” sessions will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at the Kenosha County Center, 19600 75th St. in Bristol, and at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29, at the Pleasant Prairie Police Department, 10111 39th Ave.
A Kenosha County spokesperson said suicide can affect individuals and families from every background and that communities can play an important role in prevention by talking openly about mental health, recognizing warning signs, reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek help.
“Join me so we can take the time together to learn the warning signs, understand how to offer support, and become familiar with the resources available in our community,” a county spokesperson said. “By educating ourselves and looking out for one another, we can help create a community where people feel seen, supported, and comfortable asking for help.”
The one-hour training is intended to help participants recognize warning signs of suicide risk and become more comfortable asking direct and compassionate questions when someone may be struggling. Participants will learn about common warning signs and risk factors, the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale, ways to connect people with support and resources, and harm-reduction tools including gun locks, medication lock boxes and medication deactivation kits.
Kristen Rabideau, an embedded social worker with the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office, said the training is designed for community members, educators, caregivers, faith leaders, volunteers and professionals.
“Everyone deserves to know that they are not alone and that help is available,” Rabideau said. “Our goal is to create an environment where people feel comfortable reaching out, asking for support, and checking in on those around them. Be willing to ask. Be ready to listen. Be prepared to help.”
Anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide, or concerned about someone who may be, can call Kenosha County crisis services at 262-657-7188 or call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
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