Mission Statement
Prevent Suicide Marathon County exists to enhance effective suicide awareness and prevention through collaborative activities and education to save lives in our communities. The philosophy is simple – the goal is Zero Suicides – if not zero, then what number is acceptable?
We look forward to a county of open communication about mental health, availability of resources and Zero Suicides.
Meetings/Events
PSMC is in the process of restructuring and growing the coalition as quickly as possible so to be able to be of service to more people in the area. If you would like to be part of the coalition, please contact Debi Traeder at traeders@charter.net. All are welcome
Collaborative County Partners
- Healthy Marathon County
- North Central Health Care
- Marathon County Health Department
- Marathon County Pulse
- NAMI Northwoods
Needs in the Community for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
The need for increased mental health awareness, education and services is well documented in Marathon County and has become a priority area with youth and adults.
See some examples of this research:
YRBS Survey: The Youth Risk Behavior Survey is a questionnaire given to youth in middle and high schools in all 10 Marathon County school districts. This survey provides a look at the thoughts of youth in our communities when it comes to drugs, alcohol, mental health, physical health, tobacco, bullying, sex, safety and more.
Marathon County Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP): The Marathon County Community Health Improvement Plan guides the work of the Marathon County Health Department, Healthy Marathon County, healthcare organizations, local coalitions, and community organizations. Behavioral Health is one of the priorities of Marathon County.
Life Report – Marathon County: The LIFE report provides a wide spectrum of information and data depicting the quality of life in Wausau and Marathon County. Its purpose is to provide a reference for the community to evaluate strengths and weaknesses and identify priority issues. The report, which is published every two years, serves as a tracking vehicle to show how the community has changed over time. The LIFE Steering Committee hopes this report will not only serve as a reference but also as a starting point for community action on the key Calls to Action.
Current Work and Projects
Community Educations and Programs
Members of the coalition are trained in multiple aspects of evidence-based mental health and suicide prevention education programming, such as QPR – Question, Persuade, Refer and more. Courses vary in length and cost. Contact the coalition for more information.
Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness Walk
Held mid-September each year, PSMC holds its annual Awareness and Remembrance Walk. Average funds are used toward education, support and local projects and programming. The event includes music, door prizes and raffle. Pets and strollers welcome. Survivors of suicide loss and supporters are encouraged to come – as teams or as individuals.
Contact: Faye Bileddo at 715-574-3428 or phased5840@hotmail.com
Debi Traeder at 715-551-0966 or traeders@charter.net
Survivor of Suicide Loss Support Group
A peer-led support group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. No registration required. Currently meets at Northcentral Technical College Center for Business and Industry the third Tuesday of each month at 7 pm. No fees.
Contact Marcie Knase, facilitator at: marcie.knase@gmail.com
NAMI Northwoods (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Family Support Group (.pdf) – Serving Marathon, Lincoln, and Langlade Counties
A peer-led support group offering education, resources, and advocacy for family members and caregivers of individuals living with mental illness. They meet at 7pm on the fourth Monday of every month on the second floor of the Marathon County Public Library.
Website: naminorthwoods.org
Contact: into@naminorthwoods.org