Being the Intervention: A Mental Health Crisis Support Lunch & Learn

988 is working. A new JAMA study found nearly 4,400 fewer youth suicide deaths than projected in the first two and a half years since the hotline launched.

But older adults — who are less likely to use the lifeline — saw significantly smaller reductions.

This free lunch and learn is for the people who show up when someone they care about is struggling. You don't need a clinical background. You need to know what to say, what to do, and when to call for backup.

In this 60-minute session, we'll cover:

• How to recognize warning signs in someone you care about

• A practical framework for what to say and do — including how to ask directly about suicide without fear

• Where AI companions fit in — and where they don't

• How to take care of yourself in the process

• Local crisis resources for the tri-state area

This presentation is based on Ashley's training as a crisis hotline volunteer, where many calls came not from people in crisis, but from people trying to help someone who was.

You being in the room is the intervention.

Presented by: Ashley Williams, CAPS, CLIPP, SHSS | Serenity Smart Homes

Format: Free. Lunch not included. Seating limited.

Location: Signature Workspace, 2000 NJ-38 Suite 2210, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002

Content note: This session covers depression, anxiety, trauma, suicide, and AI companion tech. If you or someone you know needs help right now, call or text 988.