What is PROJECT BRITE STAR?
PROJECT BRITE STAR, "Bringing Realistic Information To Every Sensitive Teen At Risk", is a local outreach program designed to educate our youth about depression and to prevent teen suicide.
PROJECT BRITE STAR was begun in 1998 by two moms who each suffered the loss of one of their teens to suicide in March of 1995 in Beavercreek, Ohio. Barb Fenter and Sue O'Rear, began this program so that other families would not have to suffer as theirs have. Today, the program is most often presented in middle school and high school PE/Health classes in Dayton, Beavercreek, and Hamilton, Ohio. A brief, 4 minute video, with our children and two other youths who completed suicide, gives a very personal look at the faces of suicide. It is important for our youth to know that it is okay to ask for help even though they are not able to clearly understand what may be wrong. Just as they would seek medical treatment for a broken leg or arm, they are encouraged to seek treatment for their depression.
Topics including depression, teenage stress factors, suicide risk factors, warning signs, what to do if you or a friend is in need of help, and coping strategies for a healthy outlook on life are addressed. Statistics regarding suicide and information about suicide research and the direct link of depression in most suicides is also shared.
