Mental Health

Mental Health Symposium to Address Community Collaboration and Suicide Prevention

On December 11, 2025, the Wenatchee Valley College Maguire Center will host an important event titled "Mental Health Literacy through Community Collaboration." This symposium will center on the themes of bilingual therapy and suicide prevention, providing a platform for discussing community resilience practices and innovative co-response strategies. Open to the public, the event welcomes community members aged 18 and up.

Understanding the Mental Health Landscape

The symposium comes at a critical time when mental health conditions affect approximately one in four adults. Suicide, in particular, is a pressing concern, being the leading cause of death for men under the age of 50. Alarmingly, men account for three-quarters of all suicide deaths and are up to three times more likely to die by suicide compared to women.

Various factors contribute to this disparity, including social stigma, which often hinders the diagnosis of depression in men. Men in deprived areas are especially vulnerable, showing higher rates of depression. This stigma also impacts men's willingness to seek help, underscoring the need for community support groups that can provide safe spaces for open discussions and support.

Event Highlights and Objectives

As part of the symposium's agenda, speakers from a range of mental health organizations will share their expertise and insights. The event emphasizes the importance of community collaboration to enhance mental health literacy. By focusing on suicide prevention strategies and community resilience, attendees will gain valuable knowledge to address these critical issues within their communities.

One of the key highlights will be insights from Dr. Suzanne Levy, a prominent figure in the field. Her contributions will further enrich the discussions, particularly on effective suicide prevention strategies. The event aims to foster a collaborative environment where community members, mental health professionals, and organizations can work together towards common goals.

Building on Past Initiatives

This symposium is part of a broader effort to tackle mental health challenges through collaborative initiatives. Earlier in the year, on April 5, 2024, a Suicide Prevention Summit was held, also focusing on suicide prevention strategies. The collaboration with the Counseling Psychology Department underscores the ongoing commitment to address these issues comprehensively.

These events strive to promote a deeper understanding of mental health challenges and to dismantle the stigma associated with seeking help. By fostering community collaboration and providing platforms for open dialogue, they aim to create more supportive environments for individuals experiencing mental health difficulties.

Looking Ahead

As the symposium approaches, the focus remains on empowering communities through education and collaboration. The event's organizers hope to inspire participants to implement learned strategies within their own communities, contributing to a wider culture of support and understanding.

Ultimately, the "Mental Health Literacy through Community Collaboration" symposium represents a significant step towards addressing mental health challenges and reducing suicide rates through collective effort and shared knowledge. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the event seeks to pave the way for lasting change and improved mental health outcomes for all.