Movie shows effects of mental health struggles

The Holt/Boyd Community Connections Collaborative and the North Central District Health Department are sponsoring showings of "Suicide:The Ripple Effect," the Kevin Hines story, at the Murphy Theater in Stuart, at 7 p.m., on Thursday, March 23 and at the Lynn Theater in Lynch, at 7 p.m., Monday, March 27.

Hines attempted to take his life, jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge, at the age of 19. Miraculously, he survived the fall and has worked as a mental health advocate since the event.

Mental health struggles in both youth and adults have skyrocketed in recent years. social media, the pandemic, and economic struggles have put pressure on many. Hines explains how lives connect to others and how an individual's actions impact everyone.

Hines emphasizes the importance of normalizing mental health and talking to someone about feelings rather than taking permanent actions to try and solve temporary problems.

"We hope that many people join us for this intense but uplifting documentary, reminding each of us that we are important and contribute to the beauty in our world," organizers said.

The documentary does deal with difficult topics and is recommended for individuals junior high age or older. All students under the age of 18 should be accompanied by an adult. Mental health specialists will be on site to provide support to anyone who needs assistance.