ADMH to Share Resources and Show Support of Suicide Prevention at Montgomery Out of Darkness Walk | Health

WHAT:       The Montgomery Out of the Darkness Walk is the last of six walks throughout the state that began in early October. The walks raise money for the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention’s research and education programs to prevent suicide and save lives, increase national awareness about depression and suicide, and provide support for survivors of suicide loss. The Out of the Darkness Community Walks are three to five mile walks taking place in more than 250 communities in nearly every state across the country. In Alabama, walks have already been held in Birmingham, Huntsville, Tuscaloosa, Dothan and Daphne.

WHEN:       Sunday, November 11; 1-4 p.m.

WHERE:    Auburn University Montgomery; School of Nursing

                     7500 East Drive, Montgomery  36117

WHO:          Hundreds of Alabamians will participate in the Montgomery Walk. Many organizations, including the Alabama Department of Mental Health, will also have booths at the walk with information and resources related to suicide prevention and mental health.

WHY:          More Alabamians die from suicides than homicides every year. According to AFSP, nationally, a person dies by suicide every 15 minutes. It claims more than 34,000 lives each year and is the 10th leading cause of death in the nation. While there are several risk factors for suicide, research has shown that 90 percent of people who die by suicide have a diagnosable psychiatric disorder at the time of their death, most often unrecognized or untreated depression. ADMH supports an increase in suicide awareness as essential in detecting suicidal behaviors, and preventing further suffering and loss of life. ADMH has representation on the Advisory Council of the Alabama Chapter of AFSP.

For more information about the walk, contact Kima Burch at 334-233-2644 or thetagammaxi1@yahoo.com.Online registration closes at noon the day before the walk. However, anyone who would like to participate can register in person at the walk. Walk donations are accepted until December 31, 2012.

Information Source: ADMH