Suicide Prevention Conference Set This Week In Riverside County

The following is a news release from the County of Riverside:

RANCHO MIRAGE, CA (Oct. 23, 2023) – Riverside County invites the community to its 2nd Annual Suicide Prevention Conference, a pivotal event underscoring the transformative impact of faith on mental health. The engaging, informative conference is open to all, particularly local agencies, non-profits, and faith-based leaders, to learn, share, and network.

The conference is set for Thursday, October 26, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Agua Caliente Resort, 32-250 Bob Hope Dr., Rancho Mirage. The event promises insightful discussions centered on the theme "Creating Hope Through Action: Bridging the Gap Between Spirituality & Suicide Prevention," with introductory remarks by Riverside County Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez.

The event will feature Karen Mason as keynote speaker. With over 33 years in the mental health field, Mason is renowned for her suicide prevention work within faith communities. In addition to managing Colorado's Office of Suicide Prevention, she has authored three books and conducted research supporting 14 peer-reviewed studies.

"Faith leaders are often on the front lines in communities, making their involvement in mental health and suicide prevention crucial. Our goal is to give them the tools and information necessary to make a real difference," said Dr. Matthew Chang, Behavioral Health Director at Riverside University Health System, a founding member of the Riverside County Suicide Prevention Coalition, which is sponsoring the conference.

The Riverside County Suicide Prevention Coalition was established in 2020 in response to a strategic plan adopted by the Board of Supervisors to address suicide. The alliance of community and public service organizations fosters partnerships, broadens public awareness, and provides community training in suicide prevention.

Admission to the conference is free. For more information and registration, please contact 951-955-3448, email pei@ruhealth.org, or visit https://www.rivcospc.org.

If you or someone you know is having a crisis, dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.