Centerstone, one of the nation’s leading providers of mental health and addictions care, is hosting a free screening of “Suicide: The Ripple Effect” at 7 p.m. on September 18 at Ensworth High School’s Ingram Arts Center in Nashville. Immediately following will be a moderated discussion with the award-winning filmmaker and bestselling author Kevin Hines, who at age 19 attempted to take his life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge.
“Suicide: The Ripple Effect” shares the story of Hines, who is using his experience to help others find hope and stay alive. The film is part of a global mission to help reduce the number of suicides and suicide attempts around the world.
Data from the Tennessee Department of Health shows the suicide rate in our state is at a record high—up more than 24 percent since 1999 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Tragically, a reported 1,110 Tennesseans intentionally took their lives in 2016, above the national average.
Centerstone has long sought to reduce suicides in its communities and is Executive Producer for “Suicide: The Ripple Effect.” The not-for-profit organization has successfully implemented a clinical pathway for suicide prevention across its service lines in Tennessee. Centerstone also handles incoming calls to nine crisis hotlines, including NFL Life Line, Tennessee Hopeline and National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
“We’re honored to support this life-changing documentary,” said Dr. Bob Vero, Chief Executive Officer at Centerstone. “Kevin’s remarkable story gives insight to the devastating impact suicide and suicide attempts have on our families and communities. It’s a powerful account of hope, healing and recovery.”
Hines said, “This film shows my journey to better understand the effects of my suicide attempt on my family, friends and the first responders who saved my life. My hope is the film will get people talking so those struggling can find ways to connect and heal.”
“This film will save lives,” said Dr. John Draper, Director of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline USA.
Registration is required for the free Nashville screening on September 18. Learn more at centerstone.org/rippleeffect.
Facts about Suicide
Across the globe, nearly 1 million people die annually by suicide. In the United States alone there are one million suicide attempts every year and over 40,000 deaths by suicide. Research has shown that for every one death by suicide, over 115 people are directly affected and impacted. The estimated financial cost of suicide is over 50 billion dollars annually.
About Centerstone
Centerstone is a not-for-profit health care organization dedicated to delivering care that changes people’s lives. We provide mental health and substance abuse treatment, education and support to communities in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee and additionally offer individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities life skills development, employment and housing services. Nationally, we have specialized programs for service members, veterans and their loved ones, and develop employee assistance programs for businesses of all sizes. Our research institute improves behavioral healthcare through research and technology, and our foundation secures philanthropic resources to support our work. For more information, visit centerstone.org.
