Local basketball teams partner with public health for Suicide Prevention Nights

Crawford County Public Health is announcing Suicide Prevention Basketball Nights at North Crawford, Prairie du Chien and Seneca Schools in January. 

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. for all ages. 

“Suicide is preventable. Studies show that when people feel connected and have social ties, their risk of suicide goes down,” said Sonya Lenzendorf, Health Educator with Crawford County Public Health. 

Individuals, families and communities all play a role in creating opportunities for people to feel connected and a sense of belonging. 

Lenzendorf said, “By listening without judgement and connecting people to resources, we can all support each other through hard times.”

The basketball nights are meant to show community support to local teams and extend that support to anyone that may need it.

“It is important to let those who may be struggling with suicide know that members of our school community want to help,” saidDavid Boland, Seneca School administrator and boys basketball coach.

“The first step in breaking down stigma is to start the conversation about suicide and mental health,” said Lenzendorf. “Our hope is to show that this is a community effort, so people do not feel alone.”

All players will be wearing suicide prevention T-shirts sponsored by the Iowa County Suicide Prevention Coalition, whose mission is to prevent suicide through awareness, education, collaboration, and improved access to mental health care. 

While these events are being promoted through the school districts, all community members are invited to be part of the following events:

•Jan. 6—North Crawford versus Seneca at North Crawford School (girls basketball)

•Jan. 7—Prairie du Chien versus Waukon at PdC School (girls and boys basketball)

•Jan. 10—Seneca versus Wauzeka-Steuben at Seneca School (boys basketball)

If you or someone you know needs help, call (800) 273-8255 (TALK) or text HOPELINE to 741741. 

For more information about suicide prevention, visit www.suicide-iowacountywi.org or call the health department at 326-0229. A list of Crawford County mental health resources can be found at www.crawfordcountywi.org/health-home in the Community Resource Guide.