The third annual Facials against Suicide is this weekend, Feb. 20-21, at Heavenly Day Spa in Independence Township.
‘My spa is going to be performing different services we offer at discounted rates. All proceeds go to Michigan Association for Suicide Awareness,? said Jessica Keesling, owner of the boutique at 4565 Pelton Road.
Suicide awareness is a tough, personal issue for Keesling, whose lost her father and grandfather to suicide.
“After dealing with the pain and suffering of these tragic events I felt it was only right I found a way to help make a difference,” she said. “It has been such an inspiring and eventful ride. We have raised around $5,000 total.”
Michigan Association for Suicide Awareness, a non-profit group, offers intervention training and prevention plans to reduce the number of suicides and attempts, helps those who have lost loved ones to suicide, and works to reduce the stigma of mental illness.
Call 248-693-0101 to book appointments, first come first served ? facials, $20 donation; footbath, $20; brow/lip wax, $5; make-up app, $10; and mini-brow lift, $20. Many also come in to share their stories and support for each other, Keesling said.
“For me, it’s a way to continue to help others and help raise awareness ? it’s such a huge epidemic,” she said.
According to the association, over 41,000 Americans, including 1,100 in Michigan, die by suicide each year.
Warning signs include verbal comments and non-verbal behaviors, such as decline in appearance, withdrawal from others, low self-esteem, giving away possessions, drug abuse, and sudden changes in behavior. Vulnerable situations include loss of relationship, bullying, violence, over-emphasis on achievement, and change of life-style.
If signs are noticed in a loved one, they recommend getting involved, be direct and talk calmly, openly, and matter of fact about suicide, take any talk of suicide seriously, ask what the plan is and remove the intended method, don’t judge or argue with a suicidal person, listen to what the person says about their feelings, and tell someone who can help, such as a parent, teacher, religious leader, adult friend, doctor, or mental health professional.
Keep telling someone until you find someone who will help, and don’t leave the suicidal person alone.
If you have concerns about yourself or someone you care about, contact a mental health professional or call 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255). For more information, check http://masponweb.org.