Suicide Doesn't Have To Claim 12 Lives a Week

In the midst of the holiday rush, a season weighted with challenges especially for those battling mental health issues, Samaritans of the Merrimack Valley (a program of Family Services of the Merrimack Valley) along with the Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention (MCSP) has unveiled a powerful, new billboard campaign to draw attention to the dozen lives lost to suicide every week in Massachusetts and also to inform the community that there is help. Freshly installed at the corner of Amesbury Street and Canal Street in Lawrence, the campaign highlights helpline services available for those struggling with suicidal thoughts, especially during this time of the year.

“The goal of the billboard is to let communities know that we are here to help when they are facing difficult or overwhelming times in their lives,” explained longtime Samaritans of the Merrimack Valley Director Deborah Helms. “Holidays can be especially challenging and emotional for some people. We want those struggling to reach out when they need someone to listen. We’re here for you. Please, make the call... 1-866-912-HOPE.”

The 12 Lives a Week billboard was conceptualized in partnership with Boston-based Archipelago Strategies Group (ASG) a leading minority-owned consultancy specializing in marketing, advertising, public relations and community engagement. ASG works with organizations in the government, corporate and non-profit sectors on campaigns to increase access to health care, education and economic opportunities in Massachusetts, across the United States and internationally.

Samaritans of the Merrimack valley is a program of Family Services of Merrimack Valley which empowers, nurtures and supports children and families through life’s challenges to help them reach their full potential. Family Services’ Samaritans of Merrimack Valley strives to reduce the incidence of suicide in the Merrimack Valley and throughout Massachusetts by providing “befriending” to individuals who are lonely, depressed and contemplating suicide or self-injury. Suicide prevention is one of the primary goals of the Samaritans, although services also include postvention services, trainings and seminars, and support groups. Family Services of the Merrimack Valley is located at 430 North Canal Street, Lawrence, MA. For more information e-mail or call Deborah Helms at dhelms@fsmv.org, 978-327-6600 (extension 671), or visit www.FSMV.org.

The Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention works to create a Commonwealth where everyone is involved in breaking the silence around suicide. Through statewide advocacy and collaboration, the MCSP works toward a future when people living in communities across Massachusetts will have the information and support necessary to reduce the stigma around mental health challenges and suicide; when people suffering with mental health challenges and those at risk of suicide will be able to access needed care and treatment; when diverse cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds will be valued and respected; when attempt survivors and survivors of suicide loss get the support and services they need to recover and be well; and when all people work together to reduce suicide and self harm in Massachusetts. Learn more at www.MassPreventsSuicide.org.