Hope and Healing: Utah Suicide Prevention With Attorney General Sean Reyes and Singer Alex Boyé
In light of Suicide Prevention Month this September, we hosted a supportive event for suicide prevention and mental health advocacy at the Provo City Library at Academy Square in Utah.
Organized by Healthy Faith, a program of United Charitable, we gathered about 50 attendees, including community leaders (including BYU Business School Dean Dr. Brigitte C. Madrian, my former Harvard professor), advocates, and a world class musical performer who shared insights and support for those experiencing mental health crisis.
The event featured inspiring voices, including:
Sean Reyes, Attorney General of Utah
Alex Boyé, renown singer and ambassador for American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Joe Tuia'ana, Founder, I Love You Bro
Heather Stewart, Deputy Director, Children’s Justice Center Program
Rev. Gregory C.V. Johnson, Founder, Standing Together in Utah
Eric Stauffer, MS, Director of Education, Paz Wellness
The discussions emphasized the importance of breaking stigma surrounding mental health and building a community of support. Attendees left with a renewed sense of hope and practical tools for helping those in need.
I also shared stories about my struggles with repeated, periodic suicidal ideation due to childhood trauma, some of which I describe in my recent memoir, Motorhome Prophecies. With support and treatment, I am whole again today.
We felt deeply moved by the shared commitment to fostering a warm and inviting space for dialogue on these issues. Together, we create a future where no one faces these challenges alone.
Thank you to everyone who participated and joined us in this mission of prevention and healing. We look forward to continuing this vital work and sharing more insights going forward.
Warm regards,
Carrie Sheffield
P.S. check out video from our event from iconic singer Alex Boyé:
And see Alex’s powerful, original music video of this song, “Bend Not Break,” filmed with Utah high school students on the message of suicide prevention:
