Suicide prevention day 2020

In the summer of 2020, I attended an online event organised by OneTeamGov, where I volunteered sketch-noting.

This was a very hard thing to do, as speakers told personal stories about suicide and it would get very emotional at times. This is why I missed a couple of speakers, my apologies to them 🙏

Several experts spoke about the most common issues that can lead to suicide.
They also discussed ways to support loved ones who may be struggling and encouraged attendees to get involved, giving useful insights on how to prevent suicide.

Other topics were the effects of COVID-19 in mental health, and how the pandemic has affected some minorities even more deeply, such as the LGTB+ collective, and how this can also lead to higher suicide rates in some communities.

I’m so glad I could do something to support the incredible team that put this much needed event together.

Feel free to have a look at the sketches and get in touch if you want contact details or more info!

Sam Villis from OneTeamGov and Paul Vittles presented the event.

Izzy Whitelock spoke about ways to use tech to detect early signs of suicide.

Steve Phillip shared his own personal experience after he lost his son Jordan.

Jacqui Morrissey shared what Samaritans do and how to support their cause.

Steve Mallen raised awareness on how suicide tendencies can affect people from every background.

Chukumeka Maxwell explained why minorities can be more vulnerable.

Dr. Jean Dillon spoke about the weight of gender roles when facing depression.

Sangeeta Mahajan helped understand what goes on in the mind of a person with suicidal thoughts, to be able to support them better.

Ian Russell told us about the dangers of social media on young people’s mental health.

Ian Prosser encouraged everyone to get involved and open up if they’re feeling low.

Ian Howley spoke about the vulnerability of sexual minorities and the impact of COVID-19 on mental health.

Penny Fosten encouraged people to stay in touch with each other to prevent suicide.

Debbie Rogers explained how suicide is more complex than most people believe, and how she handled her experience with her brother.