Suicide Prevention Month

Many people are not aware that life is lost to suicide every 16 minutes in the U.S. We do know that early 2011 saw 17 suicides in this area alone. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among 15- to 24-year-olds, the second leading cause of death among college students. Most Americans remain unaware that suicide is a national health problem until a personal event enters a family's life. That personal event was January 2011 for my family when my cousin lost his battle to depression and suicide.

On Oct. 8, the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention will host an area first "Out of the Darkness Walk." The walk will begin at 10 a.m. with registration and walking anytime from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This is not a race. This is a walk, a fundraiser and a time for support. Support for those who have experienced a loss from suicide and for those who know of or experience the depression and thoughts of suicide in their lives. Counseling is not offered at this event, but there will be individuals and families who have experienced and continue to experience all of those emotions. The day will end with a balloon launch at 1:30 p.m.

Please check the website outofthedarkness.org or contact Laura Matlock at laura_afsp@yahoo.com. Sponsors and walkers are still welcome.

Suicide and depression aren't quiet diseases any longer. Help is there for individuals and families, one step at a time.

PEARLA SMITH, Jackson