In 2023, following a 20-year career as a classroom teacher, Deb sought a career change. When she read the description for a Samaritans workshop trainer, she felt as though it spoke directly to her. “This is me,” she thought. “I need this.”
The opportunity with Samaritans touched her on a very personal level—she lost her father, Roger, to suicide in 1995. “I thought, this is a way to spread hope and resources to people, so they don’t ever have to feel like there are no answers, and that it’s okay to ask for help. It’s been a perfect match for me.”
During her 20 years as a teacher, she noticed a jarring spike in anxiety with her students. Now, as a workshop trainer, she gets to address that at middle schools and high schools throughout Massachusetts.
“I want students to know that there are so many resources right at their fingertips, and that it’s okay to talk about mental health.” At the end of each workshop, Deb tells attendees she hopes they feel more comfortable talking about suicide. “The more I can share information that could potentially save a life, it’s big, and I’m thrilled to be a part of that.”
Being a part of Samaritans fills your heart with purpose. I feel like I’m honoring my dad and other people who have lost their lives to suicide.”
Suicide Prevention Programs & Workshops
Building expertise to prevent suicide is critical to our mission. We’re here to teach communities how to recognize warning signs of suicide and provide support.
