Marshfield Clinic is offering free suicide prevention training across central Wisconsin. These in-person sessions, scheduled for March 23-27, 2026, at locations like Marshfield Medical Center, Auburndale Elementary School, Rembs Celebration Center, and Wausau Elks Lodge, target rural communities including farmers, veterans, first responders, clergy, educators, and all concerned residents. Led by experts Tara Haskins, Ph.D., and Linda Emanuel from AgriSafe Network’s Total Farmer Health, the evidence-based programs, QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), CALM Conversations, and Counseling on Access to Lethal Means, teach recognizing warning signs, starting vital conversations, and connecting people in crisis to help. Registration is open via email at vetcoor@marshfieldclinic.org or by calling 715-532-2329. As survivors of suicide loss in our Christian community, we see this as a beacon of hope amid rising rural suicide rates, where unique barriers like isolation and limited mental health access hit hard. It’s heartening that Marshfield Clinic’s Veterans Care Coordinator and Military & Veterans Employee Resource Group are collaborating to reduce stigma and empower everyday heroes, friends, neighbors, parishioners, to intervene. Dr. Bryan Weichelt emphasizes that “suicide prevention starts with awareness, compassion, and community,” a truth that resonates deeply with those who’ve walked grief’s shadowed path. These trainings aren’t just skills; they’re lifelines, especially for high-risk groups facing unseen struggles. From a Christian lens, this initiative echoes God’s call to bear one another’s burdens. As Galatians 6:2 (NIV) urges, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” In our pain, we’ve clung to this, knowing Christ equips us to support the hurting. Jesus Himself modeled compassionate intervention, weeping with the sorrowful and offering hope (Matthew 11:28, NIV). The words in this scripture invite the despairing to lay down lethal thoughts, finding solace in Him. Moreover, Proverbs 17:17 (KJV) reminds us, “A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” QPR and CALM training arm us to be such friends, questioning gently, persuading toward help, referring to resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. For suicide loss survivors, these efforts heal by preventing further tragedy. They affirm that no one fights alone; God’s people step in with trained compassion. If you’re in central Wisconsin, register today, it’s a practical way to honor lost loved ones and protect others. In faith, we press on, turning awareness into action.
The Christian Association for Survivors of Suicide Loss, Inc. (suicideloss.org) provides support to those who have lost a loved one to suicide through support groups and church support. If you are in crisis, dial 988 or 911 for assistance.
