suicide

A vision born from tragedy is giving hope to the future. In 2017, Julie and Scott Halpert’s 23-year old son Garrett died by suicide. In their grief, and in hopes of preventing others from taking their lives, the Halperts envisioned a campus that would provide support to young adults in a non-medical setting. The residential part of that campus will soon be a reality. It is called Garrett’s Space. WEMU's David Fair talked with executive director David Garcia about the vision, the mission and where construction of Garrett’s Space stands.

A few dozen veterans and supporters gathered Sunday in Ypsilanti Township to remember veterans lost to suicide. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

In 2017, the Veterans Administration estimated that, on a daily basis, 22 U.S. veterans lost their lives to suicide. The actual number is probably a lot higher. An organization founded in Ypsilanti works to do more than mourn their loss. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

A new report by the Washtenaw County Health Department shows an overall increase in firearm death rates in the last five years but a drop for 2024. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor reports.

In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness month, the Washtenaw County Health Department is highlighting resources to help people at risk of taking their own lives. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor reports.

Michigan’s OK2Say school violence prevention program received a record 11,671 confidential tips in 2024, a 20% increase over 2023. We have more from Rick Pluta.

The Washtenaw County Health Department has released its annual suicide report, marking a continued decline in overall suicide completion rates since 2021. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.

When tragedy befalls a family, the grief never goes away. We all deal with it in different ways. Sometimes, loss gives birth to an action plan to spare others similar pain. That is where the Miles Jeffrey Roberts Foundation in Ann Arbor comes from. Kristen and Jeff Roberts are parents who continue to mourn the loss of their son Miles. He took his life in 2017 at the age of 15. Through the tears, and with purpose and dedication, the Roberts began a foundation aimed at empowering youth athletic communities to promote mental well-being and suicide prevention. They talked about their work with WEMU's David Fair.

Several dozen people were on hand in Superior Township Thursday morning to celebrate the groundbreaking for the new Garrett’s Space residence and studio. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert was there and has this report.

Ann Arbor’s suicide prevention organization, Garrett’s Space has named a new executive director. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert has this report.