Local events focus on National Suicide Prevention Month

The Flathead Valley Out of the Darkness walk in recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month will take place Sunday, Sept. 27.

Participants can walk on their own, with a team, and/or attend either of two in-person events: Saturday, Sept. 26, and Sunday, Sept. 27, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Gathering Place at the Gateway Community Center in Kalispell. Free materials will be given out at the in-person events, such as arm bands and colored beads. Contact Walk chairperson Alison Schmaltz at 755-2419 or alischmaltz@gmail.com by Thursday, Sept. 24, to get materials prepared for a team.

National Suicide Prevention Month in September marks an opportunity for all Montanans to have a role in preventing suicide in their communities. Each year, more than 45,000 Americans — including more than 6,000 veterans — die by suicide, according to a press release from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

In the challenging times of the coronavirus pandemic, now is an ideal time to learn how to support ourselves and others.

For Montanans who are looking for ways to support themselves or others, here are some suggestions:

Make a connection: Reach out to family and friends or a mental health professional and let them know you need their support. If you think someone is struggling, connect with them. Let them know you are here for them. It is more important to start a conversation instead of waiting to know exactly what to say.

Self-care: 2020 has been a year of unexpected challenges. It is more important than ever to prioritize making time to nourish your mind and body each day. Make a list of what builds you up and do at least one activity a day. Talk with your loved ones to come up with a plan if you begin to think of self-harm.

Add the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to your cellphone and call whenever you or someone you know may be in crisis. This number provides confidential support for individuals and their loved ones in times of crisis. Veterans can press 1 after dialing, or text 838255 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line. This support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year.

Veterans and their loved ones can find veteran-specific suicide prevention information such as how to find nearby support, recognize warning signs, and information to connect with support via call, chat, or text at the Veterans Crisis Line webpage, veteranscrisisline.net or by calling 800-273-8255.

For more information about the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or to donate, visit afsp.org