Gail Heitman, program director for Senior Life Solutions with Community Hospital-Fairfax, was the guest speaker for the Fairfax Kiwanis monthly meeting in September. She spoke to the group about ways that Senior Life Solutions can help with the emotional and behavioral health of adults over the age of 65. During Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, Gail Heitman provided a program that educates the public on ways one can help a family member or loved one cope with feelings and symptoms of anxiety and depression that are often related to aging.

Not only does Senior Life Solutions work to raise awareness during September, the program also works to engage and educate the community on the importance of emotional well-being every day. The Senior Life Solutions program staff is trained in the use of standardized, evidence-based tools for screening patients as risk of suicide. In addition, the staff assists the patient to create a plan to prevent future suicide attempts or thoughts.   

Gail explained that talk of suicide should never be dismissed. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (2855)