Special Screening of ‘My Ascension’ at Schuylkill Haven Area Middle School

In observance of National Mental Health Awareness Month in May, Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN)’s Department of Psychiatry will host a special screening of “My Ascension,” a documentary film and movement to spread hope and prevent suicide.

This special program is scheduled for Wednesday, May 15 at Schuylkill Haven Area Middle School, 120 Haven St., Schuylkill Haven. Doors open at 5 p.m. Attendees can visit with local mental health specialists and LVHN behavioral health services team members (including substance use disorder support) to learn about services available in our community.

The film begins promptly at 6 p.m. A panel of educators, mental health professionals and others will offer a brief discussion and Q&A after the film.

“This program is designed for anyone who wants to learn more about suicide prevention,” says Ashley Felker, LPC, LVHN Behavioral Health Education Specialist, Department of Psychiatry. “This program is ideal for educators, counselors, parents, students and others,” Felker says. 

The Schuylkill Haven Area School District has opted to host the program to demonstrate its proactive commitment to supporting young people's mental health. “By providing a platform for discussions on suicide and mental health, we aim to foster openness, understanding and support within our community,” says Shawn Fitzpatrick, EdD, superintendent of schools in the district. “This initiative underscores our dedication to addressing these critical issues directly, ensuring students have access to resources and a supportive environment to promote mental wellness. It also demonstrates our recognition of the importance of destigmatizing conversations around mental health, creating a safe space for students to seek help and contributing to a healthier school community.”

Due to the sensitive nature of the film, licensed therapists will be on-site throughout the event to provide attendees with comfort and support if needed. Attendees are encouraged to bring a friend.

Wednesday, May 15, 5–8 p.m.

Schuylkill Haven Area Middle School,
120 Haven St., Schuylkill Haven

Register here

A suicide attempt left 16-year-old varsity cheerleader Emma Benoit paralyzed but propelled her on a mission to use her painful experience to help others find hope and shine more light on the fact that 20 young people die every day by suicide in the United States. “My Ascension” is a feature-length documentary that chronicles Emma's inspiring journey and quest to walk again, as she works to bring Hope Squad, a school-based suicide prevention program, to Louisiana. The film also highlights the stories of two remarkable young people who tragically did not survive their attempts, and we learn first-hand from their families, friends, school officials and suicide prevention experts about the devastating effects of suicide and what can be done to prevent it.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, go to the closest emergency room, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or text “HELLO” to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.