Mental health and faith highlighted at RIVCO 2nd annual Suicide Prevention Conference

Riverside County held its 2nd Annual Suicide Prevention Conference today at the Agua Caliente Resort, in Rancho Mirage.

Organizers described it as a "pivotal event underscoring the transformative impact of faith on mental health."

The event will feature Karen Mason as keynote speaker. With over 33 years in the mental health field, Mason is renowned for her suicide prevention work within faith communities. In addition to managing Colorado's Office of Suicide Prevention, she has authored three books and conducted research supporting 14 peer-reviewed studies.

The event promises insightful discussions centered on the theme "Creating Hope Through Action: Bridging the Gap Between Spirituality & Suicide Prevention," with introductory remarks by Riverside County Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez.

"Faith leaders are often on the front lines in communities, making their involvement in mental health and suicide prevention crucial. Our goal is to give them the tools and information necessary to make a real difference," said Dr. Matthew Chang, Behavioral Health Director at Riverside University Health System, a founding member of the Riverside County Suicide Prevention Coalition, which is sponsoring the conference.

The Riverside County Suicide Prevention Coalition was established in 2020 in response to a strategic plan adopted by the Board of Supervisors to address suicide. The alliance of community and public service organizations fosters partnerships, broadens public awareness, and provides community training in suicide prevention.

RUHS has a list of resources that can be found here.

Watch News Channel 3 at 5:00 p.m. for more on the story.