National Suicide and the Black Church Conference Begins at UTHSC with Governor Bill Lee Addressing Mental Health Crisis

The 9th National Suicide and the Black Church Conference is currently taking place at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis. The event, hosted by The Healing Center, brings together faith leaders, mental health professionals, government officials, and community advocates to address the pressing issue of suicide within the Black community.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, who is in Memphis for multiple events, opened the conference. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between nonprofits, faith-based organizations, the community, and government entities to foster hope for individuals in mental health crises. Lee shared personal insights, noting that his family has experienced serious depression and mental illness, which has heightened his awareness of the challenges faced by families across all backgrounds.

The governor highlighted Tennessee’s suicide rate, which is approximately 20 percent higher than the national average. He expressed his commitment to expanding access to mental health services as a means of providing hope and support. “I wanted to come here today to say there are people out there counting on you,” Lee told the audience, underscoring the critical role of those present in addressing this public health concern.

The conference spans two days, with sessions held in the Student-Alumni Center at UTHSC. Topics include child and adolescent suicide, depression, trauma, bullying, domestic violence, depression among veterans, addiction, the prescription drug epidemic, and the rising prevalence of depression within the clergy. These discussions aim to explore the multifaceted nature of suicide and its impact on various segments of the community.

Keynote speakers and attendees include Commissioner Marie Williams, LSCW, of the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, and Monty Burks, PhD, director of Faith Based Initiatives for the same department. Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris also addressed the group, reinforcing the need for collective action. Actress Kim Fields is set to deliver a luncheon keynote address on Thursday, further highlighting the diverse perspectives represented at the conference.

The gathering reflects a growing recognition of the Black church’s role in addressing mental health and suicide prevention. By bringing together faith leaders and professionals, the conference seeks to create a platform for shared knowledge and collaborative efforts toward healing and hope.

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