In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month and in conjunction with the Chatham County Public Health Department, the Chatham Community Library will host an in-person film screening of The S Word (2017) on Thursday, May 18, from 6:00-8:00 pm in the Holmes Family Meeting Room.  This event is free and open to the public.

Suicide has affected Dese'Rae Stage since she can remember. When she was very young, a family friend died by suicide. When she was a teenager, one of her friends died by suicide. When she was 23, she attempted suicide. The years that followed included college, a move to New York and a growing love for photography – all through cycles of loneliness and depression. Then, she realized there were so many questions from her past that could potentially be addressed using her camera.

The S Word documents her journey  as a suicide attempt survivor on a mission to find fellow survivors and document their stories of unguarded courage, insight and humor. She discovers a national community rising to transform personal struggles into action.

Discussion will follow the film screening.

Film accolades include:

• Winner, 2017 SAMHSA Voice Award
• 2017 Official Selection, Heartland Film Festival
• 2017 Official Selection, Port Townsend Film Festival
• 2017 Official Selection, ArcLight Doc Series

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the United States.  If you or someone you know are in crisis, call or text 988 or text TALK to 741741.