Leonardtown, Md(August 29, 2017) – The Behavioral Health Action Team (BHAT) of the Healthy St. Mary’s Partnership will host a panel discussion on suicide risk and prevention among youth and young adults that identify as LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or questioning) on Thursday, September 28, 2017 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Daugherty-Palmer Commons at St. Mary’s College of Maryland.

“Those who identify as LGBTQ, especially youth, have some of the highest rates of suicide attempts and completions in the country, and this fact is motivating the team to raise awareness on the subject in our community,” stated Gerry McGloin, co-chair of the Behavioral Health Action Team and Executive Director of Pathways.  “Our hope is that the panel will help to educate students, parents, and others about the special challenges that individuals face and how we can make our community a healthier place for LGBTQ persons to live their lives.”

The BHAT is pleased to announce a lineup of distinguished panelists for this event, including:

  • • Amy Loudermilk, MSW, the Associate Director of Government Affairs for The Trevor Project, the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ young people ages 13-24.
  • • Sean Lare, LCSW-C of Sean Lare Counseling & Consulting, offers expertise in areas of LGBTQ issues in workplaces, understanding transgender issues, and working with LGBTQ individuals in clinical settings.
  • • Jabari M. Lyles, Director at GLSEN Baltimore, GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network) is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe and affirming schools for LGBTQ students.
  • • A St. Mary’s College of Maryland student representing the organization which provides peer support for students identifying as LGBTQ

For more information and to register, visit: https://preventsuicidelgbtqyouth.eventbrite.com. Tickets are not required for admission, but registration is requested to ensure adequate refreshments and seating for participants.

This event is being coordinated by the members and partners of the Behavioral Health Action Team (BHAT) of the Healthy St. Mary’s Partnership. A special thank you to our program sponsors: St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Pathways, Inc., the Local Management Board for St. Mary’s County, and the St. Mary’s County Health Department.

The BHAT is dedicated to improving behavioral health outcomes in St. Mary’s County, including those related to mental health and substance abuse prevention and control. A variety of organizations and individuals are working together to collaboratively implement evidence-based strategies that will improve behavioral health for all St. Mary’s County residents.

Joining the Healthy St. Mary’s Partnership is free and new members are always welcome – visit http://healthystmarys.com/ for information on membership or activities.