By Marisa Seager
September 1st-30th is Suicide Prevention Month. Even though it is just one month out of the long year, we can take the steps to prevent suicide year long. Together we can break the stigma that is surrounding mental health and asking for help when needed.
Everyone plays a role in suicide prevention.
So, what exactly can you do to help?
- Get help now
Gather resources, offer your support, and be understanding to those around you.
- Help your local center
There are lifeline centers located across the United States that serve as a resource for individuals going through mental health crises, providing health services and emotional support. Most of these centers are non-profit could always use another volunteer.
- Join the network
Try joining the Lifeline’s national network. The Lifeline accepts applications for new centers to join the network all the time.
- Promote the lifeline
Spread the word about offered services and help raise awareness for suicide prevention.
- Participate in local programs and events
In most places, including Salem-Roanoke, events are put on in order to raise awareness for suicide prevention and other aspects of wellness.
Join the Salem-Roanoke Out of the Darkness Walk! When you walk in the Out of the Darkness Walks, you join the effort with hundreds of thousands of people to raise awareness and funds that allow the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention(AFSP) to invest in new research, create educational programs, advocate for public policy, and support survivors of suicide loss.
Thanks to Walkers and Donors like you, AFSP has been able to set a goal to reduce the annual suicide rate 20% by 2025.
When and where will the event be held? Sunday, October 2, 2021 at the Cregger Center located on the Roanoke College Campus.
Information from the Salem-Roanoke Out of the Darkness Walk Facebook page.
For more information on how to register or donate today please visit the following link: https://supporting.afsp.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.event&eventID=7862
If you are in crisis, please call 1-800-273-8255 or 911.
If you or someone you know is struggling with any mental health concern, reach out for help or encourage them to do so themselves. For more information on suicide visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website or contact their helpline via phone call or text.
