Bayfield High School is hosting its second "Conversation Cafe" next Thursday.
The events are "informative conversations on student wellness and suicide risk reduction," according to school staff. The next event is at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 22 and will address adolescent depression.
"We have seen an increase in pretty serious mental health concerns with our students," said Jen Leithauser, a counselor at BHS. "With all of the recent suicides in La Plata County, we want to get ahead of that, and give parents tools they need."
While the event is geared toward parents and community members, high school students are welcome to attend as well, Leithauser said.
Leithauser said there has been an increase in local reports of students who are considering suicide, and in a way, that's a good thing.
"People are looking out for each other a little more," she said.
This is the second cafe hosted by the school. The first event earlier this year, which covered social media, attracted about 25 parents, she said.
Sarah Shedd, a local licensed counselor, has experience in working with teenagers and as a clinical social worker and will speak on Thursday.
Upcoming events will cover healthy relationships and substance abuse.
