BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Different information booths in downtown Bakersfield’s Beale Memorial Library shared much-needed information and support to raise awareness for suicide prevention.
“We often think that it’s so easy to let people know they can always reach out to us. But what does that actually mean when people are reaching out to us?” said Lizzie Collings, a supervisor for the Kern Kern Health and Recovery Program.
Checking in on your loved ones, having proper equipment in the event of an emergency and learning about resources available in Kern County all play a role in raising awareness.
Yvonne Kendrick, a behavioral health recovery specialist for more than 20 years, knows firsthand what being a voice of support can do for someone struggling.
“It’s important because people need to know that they are supported, that there’s somewhere they can go when they have burned every bridge, or there’s no support, or they feel that they’re alone,” said Kendrick.
Kendrick spends her workday calling those recovering in the hospital admitted in relation to suicide.Â
“Some of the tougher calls could be someone that is in the process of trying to kill themselves while they’re on the phone with us, and having to navigate through that,” said Kendrick.
Kendrick says those calls aren’t uncommon; in her decades of experience, the priority is making sure the person feels seen.
“You give them what they need at that moment, which is to feel connected and to bring hope and support,” said Kendrick.
The suicide rate in Kern County sits around 13 residents every 100,000 per year, where the California average is around 10.
That’s around 125 suicides a year, for comparison, the Kern County’s District Attorney’s office confirmed 76 homicides last year.Â
Events like today, aim to raise awareness for the different support systems in the county aiming to help.
“I think the most beautiful thing about Kern County is how much we always show up together and be a community together. It is so important to show that there are resources available, there is support, and that there is help,” said Collins.
Still, families and friends are crucial in being the first to support those who are struggling, even if signs aren’t obvious.
“Suicide can happen to anyone. This is a human condition, and it can be talked about openly and should be, don’t hide it. Let’s fight stigma together,” said Kendrick.
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