BEAR Project

BEAR is an acronym that aims to help Brown community members learn and remember the skills needed to support students
in distress. BEAR stands for Be present, Engage, Ask, and Refer. Following this session, attendees will have a greater understanding
of tools needed to support students along the spectrum of stress. 

Corey Martin Fitzgerald, Ed.D., LMHC, CAGS

This panel explores how Schwartz Rounds fosters compassion in healthcare, enhancing caregiver well-being and patient care.
Experts will discuss its impact on healthcare workers' mental health, suicide prevention, and strategies for implementation,
offering insights into creating a more compassionate healthcare culture.

Facilitator: Diana Wang, Medical Student

Margaret Wool, PhD, LICSW
Suzanne Bentley, MD, MPH, CHSE, FACEP
Jennifer Ferrand, PsyD, ABPP
Joy M. Jacavone MS, RN, NE-BC

Let's Start the Conversation: Discussing Med School Student Anxiety, Depression, and Suicidality

This session is a conversation about the impact of mental health and suicide on medical students.
Panelists will define and discuss the prevalence of mental health concerns, why medical students may
hesitate to seek help, and emphasize multiple ways medical students can care for themselves and
their colleagues. Participants will be invited to be a part of the conversation.

Facilitator: Kelly Holder, PhD

Edward Feller, MD, FACP, FACG
David Painter, MD Candidate
Shelley Gertz Sigal, CMT, LMT
Scott Whitney, Medical Student
Laurice Girouard, LICSW

Beyond Awareness: Implementing Suicide Prevention Strategies for Medical Residents

This panel addresses the critical issue of physician suicide and mental health, focusing on medical residents.
Experts will discuss strategies to support at-risk individuals, reduce stigma, and create inclusive environments.
We'll explore why these efforts matter and how they support suicide prevention. Join us for insights on promoting
physician well-being and implementing actionable steps to combat this pressing issue in medical education.

Facilitator: Ken Lynch, PhD

Carol Bernstein, MD
Pat Poitevien, MD
Evan Michell, MD, Medical Resident

Talk Saves Lives

This comprehensive presentation by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention addresses the critical issue
of suicide. It covers the latest data on suicide in the U.S., research findings on risk factors and warning signs, and effective
prevention strategies. The presentation also provides practical guidance on recognizing warning signs, initiating conversations
about suicide, and accessing support resources, emphasizing the importance of proactive mental health management.

Fostering Hope and Resilience: Organizational Strategies for Suicide Prevention in Healthcare and Education

This panel explores effective organizational approaches to suicide prevention in healthcare and academic settings.
Leaders will share insights on implementing successful initiatives, addressing unique risk factors across different roles, and gaining
institutional support. The discussion will cover innovative mental health support strategies, challenges in program implementation,
and advice for organizations seeking to enhance their suicide prevention efforts. Participants will gain practical knowledge on creating
comprehensive, inclusive programs that foster hope and resilience among healthcare professionals and educators.

Facilitator: Rory Merritt, MD

Shannon Scott-Vernaglia, MD, Massachusetts General Hospital
Kristine Olson, MD CWO, Yale New Haven Hospital
Meera Simoes, MD, CWO, RI VA Hosptial
Greg Salguerio, MS, RD, LDN, Lifespan