Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, and it is preventable

Source: American Foundation of Suicide Prevention – Florida Panhandle Chapter

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health through education and community programs, develops suicide prevention through research and advocacy, and provides support for those affected by suicide.

AFSP has local chapters in all 50 states with programs and events nationwide including a local Florida Panhandle Chapter.

“We work from Pensacola to Tallahassee,” says Jessica Roberts, Florida Panhandle Chapter Board Chair. “We provide free suicide prevention trainings to the community, we host fundraising and support events, and offer hope to loss survivors, attempt survivors, and anyone who may be struggling.”

Suicide is complex. Answers may not come easily and it may take time to understand the thoughts and feelings associated with a suicide, but no one has to go through that difficult experience alone. As more people are encouraged to seek treatment, it will make a huge difference in improving mental health and reducing suicide.

If you are worried about someone in your life, what can you do?

“Assume you are the only one who will reach out, have an honest conversation, ask directly about suicide, and let them know you care,” says Roberts. “Everyone has a role to play in preventing suicide, and together we can learn the suicide risks and warning signs, and encourage those who struggle to seek help.”

Next up for the group is their largest fundraiser of the year, the Emerald Coast Out of the Darkness Walk which is set for October 19th. The 7th Annual event will be held at Beasley Park on Okaloosa Island and hopes to continue to grow its reach and fundraising goals. Last year the event raised over $21,000 with over 300 participants.

The event is free and open to the public. Online registration and fundraising are encouraged. Interested participants, walkers, and donors can visit AFSP.org/EmeraldCoast to register for the upcoming walk and learn more. Businesses interested in sponsorship can email [email protected]

Participants who raise $150 or more will receive a free Out of the Darkness t-shirt. Day-of registration and check-in will begin at 10:00am with the Opening Ceremony at 11:00am with the walk kicking off at the close of the ceremony. Official AFSP t-shirts and merchandise will be available for sale, as well as a raffle tickets with packages from several local businesses.

For more information, suicide prevention resources, and to get involved, visit afsp.org/panhandle or follow the local chapter on Facebook and Instagram @afspfloridapanhandle.

Together we can #StopSuicide.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255); or text GULF to 741741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7.