Burlington County hosted nationally recognized suicide prevention speaker Emma Benoit for a special presentation about teenage suicide and mental illness.
Held at the Burlington County Library System’s Main Branch Library in Westampton, the Nov. 19 presentation featured a free screening of the documentary film, My Ascension, which chronicles Emma’s inspiring story. For years, the Louisiana teen silently struggled with anxiety and depression, and, at age 16, she attempted to end her own life. The failed attempt left her paralyzed, and through navigating her recovery, Emma discovered a passion for helping other teens struggling with mental illness.
“Mental health is an essential part of overall health, and Emma’s story is a powerful reminder that it can impact anyone, including our children and teens,” said Burlington County Commissioner Deputy Director Dan O’Connell, who attended the program and delivered opening remarks before the film. “By telling her story, Ms. Benoit is helping to save lives and we want others who are struggling to know about available support and resources.”
Residents who missed the live event can still view the film and a pre-recorded Q&A with Emma online via a special Virtual Encore that is available now through Dec. 14 at https://watch.showandtell.film/watch/burlingtoncounty
The Virtual Encore presentation is being made possible through a partnership between the Burlington County Commissioners, Burlington County Department of Human Services and Show & Tell films so that more residents can benefit from Emma’s story and her message of hope.
The Burlington County Department of Human Services is also creating a My Ascension tool kit for schools and youth groups that wish to see this film and discuss it as part of their teen mental health education. Interested schools and groups should contact the Burlington County Department of Human Services Division of Behavioral Health at 609-265-5536.
In addition to the film, the Burlington County Commissioners have made it one of their missions to provide assistance and help for those suffering from mental health conditions and battling substance use disorders. The Burlington County Hope One for Youth is available to visit schools, youth groups, houses of worship and community events. The mobile outreach unit specializes in mental health education, substance use disorder, and support services for children and teens.
The County Commissioners have also passed a resolution and campaigned to end all stigmas surrounding mental health and substance use disorders. Numerous Burlington County towns and schools have passed resolutions supporting the County initiative.
“Conditions like depression, anxiety and substance use disorder are illnesses. Individuals with these ailments deserve support and care, not stigma and shame,” said Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson. “Our County is excited to continue to partner with Emma and her team to make sure residents struggling with mental health do not feel alone. Together, we’re striving to end stigma, save lives and send a message of hope across our county.”
If your life or someone else’s life is in imminent danger, call 911.
If you or someone you know is in crisis and need immediate help, call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Help is also available online at www.nj.hopeline.com .