Sept. 9 brought the beginning of Mocksville Woman’s Club’s 2015-16 year by introducing a new slate of officers, a schedule of community service programs and projects, fundraising and fellowship for members.

The group is open to women of Davie County who want to become involved and contribute to the community through arts, conservation, education, home life, international outreach and public issues.

“A service organization which assists and supports a wide range of projects, it is an excellent way to form new friendships while being of service,” said Christy Schafer, second vice president. Contact her at christyschafer@aol.com for meeting times, locations and subjects of programs.

Officers for this year were introduced: Jean Saunders, president; Marlene Shamel, first vice president; Christy Schafer, second vice president; Pat Patterson, secretary; Alice Sineath, treasurer; and Sidniee Suggs, immediate past president.

Gail Kelly was recognized as an “Ordinary Woman Making an Extraordinary Difference!” for 50 years of service to the club, of which she was president for three terms. She served on the district level of GFWNC in many capacities, while being a volunteer in Mocksville and Davie County.

“Gail serves as an inspiration to all women in her dedication to serving others,” one member said.

Myra McGonigle and Christy Schafer were recognized for their involvement with the club.

Public Issues Commuunity Service Program chairs, Gail Kelly and Sidniee Suggs, introduced the program addressing suicide and mental health concerns in Davie County. Representatives from CenterPoint, Jeff Eads; Davie Health Department, Brandi Patti; and Davie Schools counselor ,Jenny McPherson; led discussions.

Davie County statistics for the past five years revealed the following:

2010: 133 incidents of mental health issues, 27% attempted suicide;

2011: 150 incidents, 35% attempted suicide;

2012: 195 incidents, 24% attempted suicide:

2013: 83 incidents; and

2014: 96 incidents.

There has been a dramatic increase in suicide attempts by children from age 11-20, which presents a challenge for school administrators and counselors. A counselor said there is a perception that if suicide is talked about in school, it might encourage an attempt.

Age and gender are a factor in the number of mental health issues with suicide higher among males. These three professionals shared the common response from families and individuals dealing with mental health issues: “I don’t know what to do.”

Eads said CenterPoint has a mobile crisis unit and a 24-hour access line at 888-581-9988. It doesn’t help, they said, that some insurance policies do not cover mental health issues.

Davie County has a suicide prevention team through the health department, and it can be accessed by calling 753-6750.