Suicide Prevention Film to be Screened in New Milford

NEW MILFORD, CT — The documentary film “Suicide: The Ripple Effect” will be getting a screening in New Miflord.

Ability Beyond, a 501{c} (3) organization headquartered in Bethel and Chappaqua, NY, is raising awareness about the impact of suicide by hosting a screening of the documentary in conjunction with Catholic Charities and Mental Health Connecticut. The film will be shown at Bank Street Theater at 46 Bank Street in New Milford on Thursday, Oct. 11 at 7:30 p.m. Following the screening, representatives from all three organizations will be on hand to speak with any individuals looking for assistance and to provide information.

“We are hosting this event so that people in crisis can find hope and get help before it is too late,” said Michelle Weinstein, the residential and clinical services manager for Ability Beyond. “We hope this event will have a tremendous positive impact on reducing the number of suicides and suicide attempts in our community.”

The 90 minute film chronicles the story of Kevin Hines, who at age 19 attempted to take his life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. Seventeen years later, he still struggles with many of the same symptoms, but he is on a mission to use his story to help others stay alive. Kevin takes a journey to better understand the ripple effects his suicide attempt had on his family, friends, and the first responders who helped save him.

“We chose this film because it takes a very hopeful, intriguing, and raw approach by highlighting the work being done by individuals who have been directly impacted by suicide,” said Weinstein.

Tickets may be pre-ordered online.

Ability Beyond provides a wide range of services for over 3,000 people with disabilities that inhibit their activities of daily living -- including numerous residential alternatives, employment training, career counseling, job placement services, cognitive and life skills instruction, clinical and therapeutic support and volunteer and recreational activities.

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