By Kairis Boyles

EVIT Student and 88.7 The Pulse DJ Kairis Boyles recently sat down with Dr. Paula McCall, licensed psychologist and founder of Semicolon Society, a nonprofit suicide prevention organization.

Founded in 2022, the Semicolon Society was born from Dr. McCall’s personal and professional experiences. As a teenager, she struggled with suicidal ideation, and later, as a psychologist, she dedicated her career to supporting people of all ages with their mental health. Inspired to take action, she launched the Semicolon Society to educate the community about mental health and provide resources for those in need.

As a mother of two teenagers, Dr. McCall openly encourages conversations about mental health to help normalize the struggles so many face. Through educational classes, pop-up events, and outreach, the Semicolon Society not only spreads awareness but also honors the memory of lives lost to suicide.

The organization is hosting its 3rd Annual Suicide Prevention Week Gathering and Vigil on Sunday, September 7, from 5–8 p.m. at the Chandler Community Center. This free event includes food, activities, resource tables, and opportunities for all ages to connect. The evening concludes with a moving candlelight vigil to support those impacted by mental health challenges and to remember those we have lost.

👉 To listen to Kairis’s full interview with Dr. McCall on 88.7 The Pulse’s Public Pulse Podcast, visit 887thepulse.com.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call the National Suicide Hotline at 988. For resources and upcoming events, visit semicolonsociety.org.