September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. RiverView Health’s Senior Life Solutions (SLS) program is raising awareness about suicide prevention and the mental health services it offers by hosting an open house on Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 11 am to 2 pm. Stop by SLS on RiverView’s Crookston campus at 323 South Minnesota Street (Door 5) to learn more about mental health, play games, and connect with others in the community.
According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, there are, on average, 130 suicide deaths a day. In 2022, an estimated 1.6 million people attempted suicide. Each September, many across the country work together to bring awareness to suicide and promote education aimed at preventing more lives from being lost.
“By raising awareness and educating people about the signs that can indicate someone is having suicidal thoughts or is possibly in danger of attempting suicide, we can help to prevent suicide from happening,” shared RiverView’s SLS Program Director, Cindy Strom, RN. “Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month is a chance to take time to stop and assess yourself and those around you to ensure those who need help have access to it and aren’t living at risk.”
Outpatient Program for the Unique Needs of Older Adults
RiverView’s SLS Team helps older adults experiencing depression and anxiety related to life changes that are often associated with aging or a chronic diagnosis.
“Those referred to our program often may have experienced a loss of a family member or spouse, a change in health-related conditions causing stress, or symptoms related to anxiety and depression, such as low mood, not enjoying things like they used to, or trouble sleeping and low energy,” Strom stated. “Many believe depression and anxiety are just a part of aging. We help people see that everyone deserves to be their best self, and they do not have to be alone in their mental health journey.
“If you or someone you know is struggling with a decline in mental health, our program wants you to know we are here to help. Whether through our program, or another service, our team works to identify and address the emotional needs of those in our community and provide support.”
Anyone can make a referral to the SLS program, including self-referrals, referrals from providers, and family referrals.
Meet New Team Members
Speaking of support, the SLS program recently welcomed team members Jacqueline Hassett, LMSW, and Rose Schneibel.
Hassett provides in-person and online therapeutic services for individuals, groups, and families. “I’m so happy I have joined SLS and the RiverView Health Team,” shared Hassett. “I’m excited to be a part of a program that really cares about all aspects of well-being for seniors experiencing depression or anxiety. The group therapy aspect of our program is truly unique. I find it deeply rewarding to facilitate sessions and witness the growth and mutual support among group members during times of stress and loss.”
Hassett has a Master’s of Social Work degree from the University of North Dakota, and is licensed in both North Dakota and Minnesota. Previously, she was the executive director of the Red River Valley Community Action Region 4, the Health Equity coordinator for the City of Grand Forks, and an assistant professor for the University of North Dakota’s Department of Social Work.
Also new to the program is Rose Schneibel, office patient coordinator. Schneibel provides administrative and clerical services for the program staff and assists patients with care needs.
Schneibel has an Associate’s Degree in Accounting from Southern New Hampshire University. Previously, she worked as an administrative assistant at DaVita, Grand Forks.
Join Hassett, Schneibel, and other members of the SLS Team at the open house for light refreshments, a tour of the facility, and to learn more about the program. If you are unable to attend the open house but would like more information, education, or would like to discuss support, call 281.9559.
If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately. If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
