Breckenridge Texan

A group of local residents have come together to bring the documentary film “Suicide: The Ripple Effect” to Breckenridge for a free showing that is intended to offer “a safe space where feelings are valid, conversations are encouraged, and support is real.”

The documentary, part of a global mission to help reduce the number of suicides and suicide attempts around the world, is 93 minutes long and will begin at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, at the National Theatre of Breckenridge, 116 E. Walker St. Admission will be free and open to the public. The organizers are calling the local event “Hope Happens Here,” and they will be selling t-shirts ($20) at the event to raise funds to help with local mental health care needs.

According to the Facebook page for Hope Happens Here, “Mental health matters, especially for teenagers and young adults who are navigating stress, change, and major life transitions. This event focuses on mental health and suicide awareness to remind people that they are not alone and that help is always available. Too often, struggles are hidden because of fear or stigma, but talking openly can save lives.”

“Suicide: The Ripple Effect” tells the story of Kevin Hines, who attempted to take his own life at the age of 19 by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. He survived, and today, Hines is a mental health activist, filmmaker, author, speaker and suicide prevention advocate who travels the globe spreading a message of hope, education, recovery and wellness, according to the documentary’s website. The film chronicles Hine’s personal journey and the ripple effect it has on those who have been impacted by his suicide attempt and his life’s work since. Additionally, the film highlights the stories of other individuals and families who are using their personal tragedies to bring hope and healing to others.

“By learning the warning signs, supporting one another, and knowing when to ask for help, we can create a community where hope is visible and help is within reach,” the local organizers say on the Hope Happens Here page. “… Our youth deserve better, our entire community deserves more. … This film is a safe, family friendly documentary discussing the impact of mental health.”

For more information about the event, visit the Hope Happens Here Facebook event page (click here).

If you or someone you know needs support now, you can call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org. You can also text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States, anytime, to talk to a crisis counselor at the Crisis Text Line.

The 988 Crisis Line also offers help for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. You can call or text 988 to talk to someone, or you can visit the Loss Survivors webpage.

Additionally, the National Alliance on Mental Illness encourages that if you or a loved one is in immediate danger calling 911 and talking with police may be necessary. It is important to notify the operator that it is a psychiatric emergency and ask for police officers trained in crisis intervention or trained to assist people experiencing a psychiatric emergency.