Suicide is never the final word for those left behind; it crosses all human boundaries and alters lives forever.

Recently, suicide has been an issue that is increasingly covered in the news. Stories about young adults taking their lives are tragically seen more and more, and often times, students are unaware of the resources available to them if they know someone who is affected by depression.

The Centre County Chapter-in-Formation of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has spent the last four years working to increase suicide awareness and prevention in our community. Suicide knows no boundaries and can affect people of every race, gender, and age group. Unfortunately, there is a stigma attached to the issue of suicide that sometimes leads people to turn a blind eye to the problem. The main goals of the local Chapter-in-Formation are educating the community and providing helpful outlets to Centre County residents.

This year, they have teamed up with the Penn State College of Communications to create a documentary, “Toward Daylight,” which tells the stories of those whose lives have been forever changed by suicide and survivorship in Centre County. Along with sharing these stories, the film offers advice on mental health and living. The film provides viewers with information on the signs of depression and resources that are available in our community for those who may need help.

“Toward Daylight,” will premiere Sunday, November 14 at 1:00 p.m. at the State Theater and admission is free. The documentary runs 20 minutes in length and following the film there will be a panel discussion with those involved in the project. Students and community members are encouraged to attend and support a great organization that is working hard to improve the lives of those around us.

In the past, Penn State students and the Centre County community have helped the local Chapter-in-Formation battle suicide. Every spring, an “Out of the Darkness Community Walk,” is held here on campus and last March, over $40,000 was raised to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Locally, this money has been used to aid new initiatives that are aimed at education and prevention.

Education is key when addressing the issue of suicide. It is important for everyone to know that there are warning signs of someone who is suffering. While psychiatric disorders may be the main cause of suicide, risks include genetic predisposition, emotional crises, and impulsivity. Events like the November 14th film premiere are ways for individuals to get involved and help. Fortunately, with knowledge and support, suicide can be preventable and with resources like the local Chapter-in-Formation, everyone is capable of saving a life.

View the “Toward Daylight,” trailer.

For more information about the Centre County Chapter-in-Formation of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, please visit their Facebook page.