Free showing of documentary Thursday, September 28 at Fox Theater in Sidney

SIDNEY -- Suicide continues to be one of the leading causes of death in Nebraska, according to the Nebraska Statewide Suicide Prevention Plan 2022-2025. 

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention says suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States. In 2021, there were 48,183 lives lost in 1.7 million suicide attempts. 

The Fox Theater in Sidney will be showing "My Ascension," the story about a 16-year-old girl who survived a suicide attempt, and how it changed her life. The movie is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, September 28.

Emma Benoit appeared to be the kind of person everyone admired; an attractive cheerleader, popular and academically successful. At 16 years old, she attempted to end her life. My Ascension is the story of the day that changed Emma’s life, and everything that’s happened since.

For Years, Emma quietly struggled with anxiety and depression, too ashamed to share her pain with family or friends. Through navigating the challenges of recovery, she discovers purpose and passion in helping other struggling teens.

My Ascension is an inspiring look at Emma’s story, and includes firsthand experiences of families, friends, school officials, and suicide prevention experts. The film does not shy away from the difficult realities of the ongoing youth suicide crisis, but shares valuable resources to help keep teens safe.

There are currently 10 Schools in the Panhandle area that have implemented Hope Squad curriculum, a peer-to-peer bullying and suicide prevention program. Hope Squad members are nominated by their classmates as trustworthy peers and trained by advisors. The program reduces youth suicide through education, training, and peer intervention.

Every day 20 young people die by suicide in the United States, according to a press release from Panhandle Public Health District. According to the National Institute on Mental Health’s most current data from 2018, about 7,600 young people under 25 died by suicide.

If your organization, school, or community group is interested in hosting a viewing of My Ascension, or implementing Hope Squads, please reach out to Nicole Berosek @ 308-279-3496 to schedule.

For additional information about what Panhandle Public Health District is doing to reduce suicide contact Cheri Farris @ 308-220-8020 or cfarris@pphd.ne.gov.