Categories: Breaking NewsGovernment NewsHealthNews

Atlanta Woman Advocates for Mental Health After Loss

A serene view of Atlanta, embodying the hope and support for mental health initiatives.

News Summary

In Atlanta, Ellen Marks is turning her grief into action after losing her wife, Monica, to suicide. Through participation in mental health initiatives and advocacy, Ellen spreads hope and raises awareness on mental health resources, especially amidst Georgia’s new 988 crisis hotline aimed to support youth in need.

Atlanta Woman Spreads Hope After Heartbreaking Loss; State Launches 988 Mental Health Initiative

In Atlanta, a touching story of love, loss, and hope unfolds as a devoted widow honors her late wife while advocating for better mental health resources. Ellen Marks, who tragically lost her wife, Monica, to suicide in September of 2021, is turning her grief into a powerful message for the community.

A Love Story Cut Short

Ellen and Monica shared a beautiful life together, filled with passion and commitment over 30 years, including a heartfelt 12 years of marriage. But the suddenness of Monica’s death at the age of 57 left a profound impact on Ellen and their community. Despite their close relationship, Ellen had no prior signs that Monica was suffering from suicidal thoughts, a reality that many families face when dealing with mental health issues.

Transforming Grief into Action

To commemorate her beloved wife’s memory, Ellen actively participates in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Walk held in Atlanta. This event not only honors Monica but also aims to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. Ellen emphasizes that no one should have to navigate the choppy waters of mental distress alone, and she encourages community members to reach out for help.

Georgia Takes a Stand

In a positive response to the mental health crisis facing young people, the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) is stepping up its efforts. They have partnered with the University System of Georgia to launch the 988 suicide and crisis hotline, a crucial resource aimed at supporting students and individuals in need.

This initiative is part of a broader Mental Health Initiative initiated in 2020, which seeks to address the alarming rates of mental health challenges among students. Alarmingly, suicide stands as the second-leading cause of death among individuals aged 18 to 24 in Georgia. With the addition of decal signage containing the 988 hotline number placed in dorm rooms, student activity centers, and health centers across campuses, around 200,000 students will soon have easy access to mental health support.

Awareness and Accessibility

To further promote the hotline, wallet cards featuring the 988 number will be distributed to faculty, staff, and students alike. With the first lady actively working to normalize conversations around mental health care, it’s evident that Georgia is seeking to break the stigma associated with these pressing issues.

Unfortunately, a study discovered that only 16% of surveyed individuals were aware of the 988 hotline. This covers a critical gap in knowledge because this hotline provides a confidential, easily accessible way for those in crisis, particularly in rural areas, to find help.

A Lifeline for the Youth

Interestingly, about 12% of calls made to 988 come from individuals under the age of 18, underlining the importance of making mental health resources readily available to younger generations. With a swift average response time of just 12 seconds for calls to the 988 hotline, immediate support is becoming a reality for many in distress. Additionally, mobile crisis teams are on standby, aiming to respond promptly within one hour in metropolitan areas and within 90 minutes in more rural regions.

Looking Ahead

As the need for comprehensive mental health services continues to grow, there is a clear demand for increased funding for treatment centers and the establishment of more behavioral health crisis centers across Georgia. The progress being made sends a message that while heartbreak and loss may linger, hope and help are within everyone’s reach.

In the spirit of Ellen Marks and her dedication to honoring her wife’s memory, let’s remember that we are not alone in our struggles and that help is available for those who seek it.