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“Overcoming Depression and Thoughts of Suicide”
Dennis Liegghio • author | speaker | musician
Dennis is a professional speaker, the founder of KnowResolve and the author of “Building a Foundation for Happiness”.
In this presentation, Dennis openly discusses the experience of losing his father to suicide as a teen, his subsequent battle with a suicidal depression and personal path back up through the darkness. The presentation also includes an acoustic performance of several original songs that help tell the story and provide a unique and brutally honest, heart-felt message of pain, recovery, connection, and hope.
In addition to sharing his personal story, Dennis outlines warning signs, risk factors, tips for coping with distress, and how to respond in a crisis. The ultimate goal of the presentation is to let students know that it is crucial to ask for help when we are struggling, and connect them to available resources.
This presentation is approximately 60 minutes in length, followed by Q and A.
Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for youth ages 15-24 and the 2nd leading cause of death for college students. Book Dennis today and start a conversation that empowers students and saves lives!
Click HERE to download a presentation overview
Since 2007, Dennis has spoken nationally to more than 36,000 teens and young adults. Some of the venues he has presented to include:
- Michigan State University
- Grand Valley State University
- Oakland University
- Lawrence Tech University
- St. Clair Community College
- Macomb Community College
- Alma College
- Countless middle schools, high schools, and churches
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Testimonials:
“Thank you for coming to Oakland University. The work you do is so inspiring. It is always tough to talk about a subject like this, but it was a presentation we needed to hear. Hope to have you back again soon!” – Meredith (student), Oakland University
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“I had the pleasure to observe Dennis’ presentation at the Macomb Community College Library at Center Campus on October 13, 2011. In his first visit to Macomb, Dennis captured the audience with his stories, music and wisdom. Dennis presented a well balanced, well timed, and moving presentation that the audience was able to enjoy and learn from. His common-sense tips gave students and other attendees a useful and powerful set of tools for preventing and combating depression and suicidal thoughts within themselves and an approach to use with friends and others who suffer with these conditions . I hope that this will be the first of many presentations to come here at MCC.” – Mary A. DeClerck, M.A., L.L.P. (Adjunct Professor of Psychology, Macomb Community College)
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“Dennis – First off, on behalf of ASMSU, UAB and ACS, I want to say THANK YOU for coming to Michigan State University! It would be great to have you back in the future because you are sending a great message and you’re a survivor, and a positive role model for those struggling with depression. Thank you again!” – Ann (student), Michigan State University
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“I have been a professional in the mental health field for over 18 years and I have seen hundreds of educational presentations but this one is at the top of my list! Dennis is the perfect mix of reality, entertainment, emotion, and hope.” – Laura Farwell (Organization/Community Education and Development Supervisor, CNS)
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“Dennis’ presentation is very personal, heart-wrenching and hopeful. While I understand that the word ‘hopeful’ seems out of place as a descriptor, it’s very true that attendees will come away from the program feeling empowered.” – Carrie Bearss (Student Activities Coordinator, St. Clair County Community College)
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“As a former Chippewa Valley graduate, Dennis shares his story passionately and without reservation, encouraging students to ask for help and reach their fullest potential. Thank you for having the strength and courage to speak to our students & share your personal experience. Your message to the students is a strong & powerful one that encourages them to reach out for help!” – Diane Zatkoff (Principal, Ninth Grade Center, Chippewa Valley High School)
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