Quest, Inc. unites in solidarity with a cause of utmost importance — Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. Quest strives to enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and foster a compassionate and supportive environment for our extended family — the exceptional individuals we serve, their families and our dedicated team members.
Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month serves as a poignant reminder that mental health is integral to overall well-being and deserves the same attention and care as physical health. The new 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention marks the first instance of “adopting a ‘whole government’ approach, aiming to fill gaps in the field and encouraging a more unified and extensive strategy for preventing suicide in communities nationwide.” For many individuals with developmental disabilities, navigating the complexities of life can present unique challenges, making it crucial for the expansion of advocacy for mental health awareness and support.
Why is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Important at Quest
At Quest, we believe in a holistic approach to care, emphasizing mental health as a fundamental component of our mission. Individuals with developmental disabilities may face a variety of stressors, including social isolation, communication barriers and adjustment challenges. Addressing mental health concerns within this context is essential to their overall quality of life.
By recognizing Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we aim to:
Educate and Raise Awareness: We commit to fostering an environment where mental health education is a priority. Through awareness campaigns, webinars and informative resources, we strive to impart knowledge and promote open dialogue about mental health, suicide risk factors and available support resources.
Strengthen Support Networks: We encourage everyone in the Quest family to reach out to one another, lending a listening ear and fostering a culture of compassion and empathy. Creating a safe space for open conversations allows us to identify signs of distress and provide timely support to those in need.
Empower and Connect: By empowering our team with the knowledge and tools to recognize signs of mental distress, we equip them to intervene and guide individuals toward appropriate professional help. Additionally, we endeavor to connect our community with mental health resources within Quest and externally, ensuring access to comprehensive care.
Combat Stigma and Foster Understanding: Stigma can be a significant barrier to seeking help. Through education and awareness efforts, we aim to challenge the misconceptions surrounding mental health, encouraging an environment where seeking assistance is seen as a sign of strength and resilience.
Our Collective Responsibility
In our collective pursuit of supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, we recognize that mental health challenges can affect anyone. Let us stand together, united by empathy and a commitment to promoting mental well-being.
During this month and beyond, let us reach out to each other, listen without judgment and offer the support that can make a profound difference. We can empower lives and spread hope by fostering a culture of understanding and compassion.
Together, we are stronger, and together, we can save lives.
Suicide Prevention Resources Available:
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or needs urgent help, please call 911 or contact the Mental Health Association of Central Florida. Your safety and well-being are our priority.
If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that support is available. At Quest, we offer resources such as the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which provides guidance and assistance whenever needed.
The three-digit dialing code for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is 988. This confidential support line is available 24 hours a day through call or text to provide free help to people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress.