GALLERY – The Mississippi Department of Mental Health hosted its annual Shatter the Silence: Suicide Prevention Symposium, bringing together mental health professionals, advocates, community partners and individuals with lived experience

On Sep. 9th, the Mississippi Department of Mental Health hosted its annual Shatter the Silence: Suicide Prevention Symposium, bringing together mental health professionals, advocates, community partners and individuals with lived experience. This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative by Silencing Stigma,” focused on reducing the stigma surrounding suicide and encouraging Mississippians to talk openly about mental health, seek help and support those who may be struggling. The symposium was held during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and followed 988 Day, which raises awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Mississippians can call or text 988 24/7 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. (Advocate Photos: Joshua Martin)