Suicide Survivor to Share Inspirational Message on Living Mentally Well
Kevin Hines, a suicide survivor, activist, storyteller and filmmaker, will share his story at 7 p.m. March 27 in Baldwin Hall Auditorium.
Hines, one of the few survivors of a suicide attempt from the Golden Gate Bridge, released his memoir titled “Cracked not Broken, Surviving and Thriving after a Suicide Attempt.” He is currently producing a documentary titled “Suicide: The Ripple Effect,” and his story was featured in the 2006 film “The Bridge” by film director and producer Eric Steel.
The presentation is being funded as part of A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine’s 125-year anniversary community-based project focused on mental health awareness. The presentation is free, and the public is encouraged to attend.
As an advocate for mental health issues and suicide prevention, Hines’ will to live and stay mentally well has inspired people worldwide. He has spoken to diverse global audiences representing education, health professions, corporations, clergy, military, law enforcement and various other industries.
Hines is an active board member for the International Bipolar Foundation, Bridge Rail Foundation and Mental Health Association of San Francisco, and he serves on the Survivors Committee of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. He is a past board member of the Northern California Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and a two-term member of San Francisco’s Mental Health Board. Hines has spoken in congressional hearings alongside Patrick Kennedy in support of the Mental Health Parity Bill, and he continues his policy work as an ambassador to the National Council for Behavioral Health.
In 2016, Hines was awarded Mental Health America’s highest honor, the Clifford W. Beers Award, for his efforts to improve the lives of and attitudes toward people with mental illnesses. Other recognitions have included: a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Council of Behavioral Health in partnership with Eli Lilly; award recipient of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Voice Awards Fellowship Program; an Achievement Winner by U.S. Veterans Affairs; and more than 30 U.S. military excellence medals as a civilian.
“Mental health wellbeing is critical to the success of individuals and society as a whole. The need to improve understanding and awareness of the issues surrounding mental health is of a huge concern, even in our own community,” said Margaret Wilson, dean of ATSU-KCOM. “This event provides an opportunity for us to better educate citizens and the community about the challenges and solutions that benefit us all. We are pleased to offer the powerful message this speaker brings to our community.”
For additional information about Hines, visit kevinhinesstory.com, and for questions pertaining to his March 27 public speaking engagement, contact communications@atsu.edu or 660.626.2272. For additional information on ATSU-KCOM’s community-based mental health awareness project and collaboration with Truman State University, Kirksville R-III School District and other community partners, visit iconnect.atsu.edu/for-the-love-of-community.
In coordination with Hines’ presentation, Truman organizations will be hosting a Mental Wellness Week. More information, as well as times of the events, will be posted to the Master Calendar in days to come.
“Walk With Me”
Night walk for suicide awareness
March 25
Contact: Katherine Nace, Greek Mental Wellness Committee, ken5247@truman.edu
Talk by Jennifer Hurst
Topic: links between time spent in nature and mental well-being
March 26
Contact: Joe Slama, Student Government, jrs4742@truman.edu
Kevin Hines
7 p.m.
March 27
Baldwin Hall Auditorium
Contact: communications@atsu.edu, 660.626.2272
Puppies on the Quad
March 28
Contact: Katie Litschgi, Panhellenic Council, kml1168@truman.edu
Mass Yoga Event
March 28
Contact: Caroline Costello, Rotaract, crc1156@truman.edu
Nutrition Workshop
March 28
Contact: Katherine Nace, Greek Mental Wellness Committee, ken5247@truman.edu
Panel with UCS
Discussion on mental health and wellness habits, featuring questions anonymously submitted by students
March 29
Contact: Joe Slama, Student Government, jrs4742@truman.edu
Positive Peers Info Night
TBA
Contact: Alex Frogge, Positive Peers, alf6361@truman.edu
