Exciting Kick off for the Cypher!
AUSET's Cypher is off to an incredible start! We kicked off our series of events during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month with a deeply impactful virtual launch featuring Miguel Sierra, an Army veteran and passionate advocate for mental health.
Miguel, who served as a Behavioral Health Clinic NCOIC, Suicide Prevention Coordinator, and in various other roles supporting soldier wellbeing, brought his wealth of experience and expertise to a crucial conversation: "Deconstructing the Stigma: The Alarming Impact of Men Refusing to Protect their Emotional Health."
During the event, Miguel shed light on the pervasive stigma surrounding men's mental health and its devastating consequences. He shared alarming statistics that underscored the ripple effect of suicide, emphasizing that it's not just an individual issue but one that impacts entire communities.
Miguel's presentation went beyond simply identifying the problem; he provided practical solutions. Attendees gained valuable insights into:
Understanding Stigma: Miguel broke down what stigma is and how it creates barriers to seeking help for depression and suicidal thoughts.
Tactics for Change: He outlined actionable strategies for combating stigma and fostering a culture of support.
Protective Factors: Miguel highlighted key protective factors that can increase resilience and help individuals navigate mental health challenges.
Taking Action: He equipped participants with the knowledge and tools to recognize warning signs and take action to prevent suicide attempts among friends, family, and colleagues.
This powerful launch event set the tone for what AUSET's Cypher aims to achieve: creating a safe and supportive space for open conversations, fostering understanding, and empowering individuals to take charge of their mental wellbeing.
Stay tuned for more impactful events from AUSET's Cypher as we continue to explore the complexities of the human experience and promote healing and connection.