Mary C Rowan
Banner News
Flannel Day for Suicide Awarness was Feb. 16, 2017, in the Courter Center at the Boone DMACC Campus. The goal of the event was to raise awareness about the impact of suicide. It was organized by several DMACC staff members in memory of former student Edward Schultz, who often wore flannel/plaid. Schultz died by suicide on Feb. 16, 2016. Faculty, staff students were asked to wear flannel in honor of Edward.
The Flannel Day was held from 11 am until 2 pm and included an opportunity to share “I Wear Flannel Because…” statements, pick up resources, and to sign an awareness banner. Free flannel shirts were handed out.
Also on hand was a counselor from the DMACC Ankeny campus named Deanne Heaton. Heaton answered questions about preventing suicide and shared information on signs to look for when someone is suicidal.
I also had the opportunity to interview Deanne Heaton on camera see the following link.
https://youtu.be/EeDkf5ULNRM
The following are warning signs of suicide.
1. Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.
2. Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a gun.
3. Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
4. Talking about being trapped or in unbearable pain.
5. Talking about being a burden to others.
6. Increasing the use drugs or alcohol.
7. Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
8. Sleeping too little or too much.
9. Withdrawing or isolating themselves.
10. Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
11. Displaying extreme mood swings.
1-800-273-TALK (8255). If need to talk to someone.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline| www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org