BEMIDJI, Minn. (Oct. 25, 2010; UPDATED Oct. 26) — As part of its Suicide Prevention Week activities, the division of Student Development and Enrollment at Bemidji State University will host a presentation on breaking down the social stigmas surrounding the treatment of mental illnesses and a training program for suicide prevention gatekeepers.

Patrick Grundmeier will deliver the lecture “Real People, Real Depression” on Tuesday, Nov. 2.

Grundmeier, an Iowa native, moved to Bemidji in 1986. He graduated from Bemidji State University in 1992 as a double-major in social work and psychology. He has spent his professional career managing mental health programs and consulting with groups regarding communication skills and interpersonal relationships. A lifelong sufferer from symptoms of depression and anxiety, Grundmeier now speaks publicly about his experiences in an effort to help others come forward and seek treatment instead of suffering in silence.

Grundmeier’s presentation will begin at 8 p.m. in Hagg-Sauer 100. The presentation is sponsored by the Division of Student Development and Enrollment, Bemidji State’s Student Center for Health and Counseling and the Bemidji Suicide Prevention Program.

On Wednesday, Nov. 3, Bemidji State alum Stephanie Downey will facilitate a training session for suicide prevention gatekeepers. Participants in the program will receive an introduction to suicide risk factors and warning signs shown by those at risk, and will learn how to respond to those warning signs. The program will also provide informaion on a variety of suicide-prevention resources.

The training session will be held from 4-5:30 p.m. at Bemidji State’s American Indian Resource Center.

Both sessions are targeted to Bemidji State University students but are open free to the public.

For more information please contact Jay Passa, Bemidji State University health education coordinator, at (218) 755-2080.

FOR YOUR CALENDAR
Nov. 2 – 8 p.m. – Suicide Prevention Week at Bemidji State University: “Real People, Real Depression,” breaking down social stigmas surrounding the treatment of mental illness. PRESENTER: Patrick Grundmeier. LOCATION: Hagg-Sauer 100. ADMISSION: free. INFORMATION: (218) 755-2080.

Nov. 3 – 4 – 5:30 p.m. – Suicide Prevention Week at Bemidji State University: Suicide Prevention Gatekeepers training. Learn suicide risk factors and warning signs shown by those at risk, and learn how to respond. PRESENTER: Stephanie Downey. LOCATION: American Indian Resource Center. ADMISSION: free. INFORMATION: (218) 755-2080.

UPDATE: Nov. 2 event start time changed from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.