Join the Bowling Green Out of the Darkness Community Walk on October 18 and Take a Step Toward a World Without Suicide.
Every step has a story behind it.
Some walk in memory of someone they love. Some walk for a friend or family member who is struggling. Some walk because they have faced their own darkest moments. And others walk simply because they believe no one should ever have to face those moments alone.
On October 18, our community will come together for the Bowling Green Out of the Darkness Community Walk, supporting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and its mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide, including those who have experienced a loss.
Grounded in science, AFSP offers a variety of programs that promote suicide prevention, awareness, education, advocacy, and supportfor those affected by suicide. Through research, public education and community programs, AFSP is working to create a culture that is smarter about mental health.
The positive shift in public understanding and perception of suicide and mental health is encouraging. More people are recognizing the importance of mental health, talking openly about it, and understanding that suicide can be prevented.
According to a recent Harris Poll cited by AFSP, 94% of U.S. adults believe suicide can be prevented at least some of the time, and 83% say they would be interested in learning how they might be able to help someone in their life who may be thinking about suicide.
Mental health must become a priority in the same way we prioritize physical health.
Suicide is complex, and there is rarely one single cause. Risk can change over time, and a person’s individual risk factors combined with stressors and experiences such as isolation, depression, anxiety or suicidal thoughts may increase their risk.
If you’re worried about someone, don’t assume someone else will reach out. Check in. Listen. Let them know you care. And don’t be afraid to ask directly, “Are you thinking about suicide?”
Talking openly, honestly and directly about suicide when we are concerned about someone is an important first step toward helping them find support. Research has shown that asking someone about suicide does not cause suicidal behavior or put the idea into their head. Instead, it can provide relief, encourage help-seeking and potentially save a life.
Sometimes prevention starts with one person being willing to ask a difficult question – and then being willing to listen to the answer.
Walk With Us October 18
The Bowling Green Out of the Darkness Community Walk will take place October 18 at 1pm, with registration beginning at 11:30am at the Hot Rods Stadium.
This is a walk for everyone. Bring your family and friends – and your four-legged family members, too. Dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash, and food trucks will be available during the event.
Whether you have lost someone to suicide, have struggled yourself, love someone who has struggled, or simply want to support suicide prevention in our community, you are welcome to walk with us.
Together, we can honor those we have lost, support those who are struggling, break the silence surrounding suicide, and remind people that they are not alone.
Suicide can be prevented. Everyone can help. And together, we can bring hope out of the darkness.
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
For additional suicide prevention information, education and resources, visit AFSP.org.
Register at www.afsp.org/bowlinggreen
-submitted by Bowling Green Out of the Darkness Community Walk
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