Shreveport, La. – In observance of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, local news outlet KTBS partnered with Brentwood Hospital to spotlight the importance of honest dialogue and community support for mental‑health challenges.
Personal testimony drives the message
During a recent interview, Shreveport resident Quenton Light recounted the painful loss of his brother, who died by suicide on August 13, 2018. Light explained that the tragedy continues to shape his family’s daily life, saying, “Every day we think about it, every day we talk about it. It helps us get through it.”
Light identified a common myth: the belief that talking about suicide might encourage someone to act. He argued the opposite, insisting that open, direct conversations can save lives. “You’ve got to bring it up. You have to talk about it,” Light urged. “Ask the question.”
Warning signs to watch for
Light also outlined several warning signs that may indicate a loved one is struggling, including:
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Giving away meaningful possessions
- Changes in work habits or performance
- Symptoms of depression such as persistent sadness, loss of interest, or hopelessness
Recognizing these behaviors early can give friends and family a chance to intervene before a crisis escalates.
Community resources and professional help
Mental‑health advocates emphasized that maintaining strong connections, regularly checking in on loved ones, and seeking professional assistance when needed are critical steps in preventing suicide. Brentwood Hospital offers a range of services, from counseling to crisis intervention, and encourages anyone experiencing a mental‑health emergency to reach out immediately.
For those in immediate danger, the national suicide‑prevention lifeline 988 is available 24/7, providing free, confidential support. Local resources include the Louisiana Department of Health’s mental‑health hotline and community counseling centers throughout the Shreveport‑Bossier area.
How the community can help
Residents are urged to foster an environment where mental‑health conversations are normalized, not stigmatized. Simple actions—such as asking a neighbor how they are doing, offering a listening ear, or sharing information about local support services—can make a profound difference.
As Suicide Prevention Awareness Month continues, KTBS and Brentwood Hospital will host additional events, including workshops for parents, faith‑based groups, and schools, all aimed at equipping the community with the tools needed to recognize and respond to mental‑health crises.
By sharing personal stories like Light’s and providing clear guidance on warning signs and resources, Shreveport hopes to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and ultimately save lives.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
