Why Aren't We Talking About This?

Every day, people in our communities silently struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, and feelings of hopelessness. Yet conversations about mental health and suicide are often avoided because they can feel uncomfortable or difficult.

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But silence doesn't save lives. Conversations can.

This September, during Suicide Prevention Month, the Library of the Chathams invites our community to come together for a month-long series of programs designed to educate, reduce stigma, encourage hope, and connect people with one another and resources that can help. Whether you're a child learning to understand emotions, a teen navigating life's challenges, an adult supporting a loved one, or an older adult seeking connection, these programs are designed to meet you where you are.

Some programs will be held in person, while others will be offered virtually, making it easier for everyone to participate in the way that feels comfortable.

The need for these conversations has never been greater. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and millions of adults experience mental illness each year. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that one in five U.S. adults experiences a mental illness annually, while one in six youth ages 6–17 experiences a mental health disorder each year. Behind every statistic is a friend, neighbor, coworker, classmate, or family member who may be struggling, often invisibly.

Knowledge can empower, conversations can heal, and communities can make a difference. Through this series, the goal is not simply to present information, but to create opportunities for meaningful dialogue, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and remind every member of our community that they are not alone.

"This is incredibly meaningful work," said Blair Rosenthal, Ph.D., Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services, School District of the Chathams. "Conversations about mental health support and guidance are essential. Through open dialogue, we can build a community where everyone feels connected, valued, and supported."

These programs were thoughtfully developed by the Library's STAY Advisory Committee, a dedicated group of community members and mental health advocates committed to increasing awareness and sharing trusted resources to save lives. Their work reflects a simple but powerful belief: when we talk openly about mental health, we make it easier for people to seek help before a crisis occurs.

Programs for Every Age

For Children
Children experience big emotions, too, and learning to recognize and express those feelings is an important part of emotional wellness.

• PJs & Movie: Inside Out (PG) – Thursday, September 17, 3:45 p.m.Through Pixar's beloved film, children will explore emotions, empathy, and healthy ways to express their feelings.

For Teens
The teen years bring unique pressures, from academics and friendships to social media and planning for the future. These programs help build resilience and encourage help-seeking.

• When Life Gives You Lemons – Friday, September 18, 4:30 pmLearn practical coping skills and healthy behaviors to navigate life's challenges.
• Who's in Your Corner? (Virtual) – Monday, September 21, 6 pmLearn to recognize warning signs of emotional distress, identify trusted adults and resources, and understand when and how to ask for help.
• Study Smarter, Stress Less – Thursday, October 15, 6 pmLicensed therapists from Project Community Pride will share techniques to reduce stress, improve concentration, and promote overall well-being.

For Adults
Supporting ourselves and those we care about begins with understanding mental health and knowing how to respond with compassion.

• You Are Not Alone (Virtual) – Tuesday, September 1, 7 pmPsychotherapist Laura Tyson will discuss recognizing when someone may be struggling and how hope, connection, and support can make a difference.
• Practical Strategies for Supporting Loved Ones – Tuesday, September 22, 6 pmNational Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) New Jersey Board Member Pamela Garanger and former NAMI New Jersey Board President Stephen Williams for an informative and heartfelt presentation about effective communication and problem-solving strategies.

For Older Adults
Connection is essential at every stage of life. These programs focus on resilience, community, and recognizing that emotional wellness matters throughout the aging process.

• Finding Hope & Connection: A Conversation with Older Adults – Thursday, September 17, 3:30 pmChatham resident, Len Resto,will share his personal journey and discuss the importance of staying connected, recognizing when life feels overwhelming, and finding hope during difficult times.
• Talk Saves Lives for Seniors – Tuesday, September 29, 11 amLearn about the facts and myths surrounding mental health and suicide among older adults and discover resources available for support.

Information Tables
Visitors will find valuable resources from local organizations, including Project Community Pride (September 8, 6-8 pm), Madison Chatham Coalition (September 15 and October 6, 2-4 pm), the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention NJ Chapter (September 17 3-5 pm) and School District of the Chathams: Mental Health Resources (October 7, 2:30-4:30 pm). Whether you choose to speak with representatives, ask questions, or simply take materials home to review at your own pace, these resources are available to support you whenever you're ready.

These programs and tables are about far more than preventing suicide. They are about building a stronger, more compassionate community, one where asking for help is seen as a sign of strength, where supporting one another becomes second nature, and where no one feels they have to face life's challenges alone.

No one wants to talk about suicide. But we have to.
This September, we invite you to join us at the library. Learn something new. Start a conversation. Share resources with someone you care about.

Most importantly, remind yourself and others that hope is real, help is available, and no one has to face life's challenges alone.