All month, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to promote suicide prevention awareness. Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation. Individuals are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful by after speaking to someone who listens without judgment. Studies indicate that helping someone at risk create a network of resources and individuals for support and safety can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has a local chapter – AFSP Greater San Francisco Bay Area which is active throughout the year with educational, programmatic, and outreach activities as well as the Out of the Darkness Community Walk each fall. They focus on eliminating the loss of life from suicide by: delivering innovative prevention programs, educating the public about risk factors and warning signs, raising funds for suicide research and programs, and reaching out to those individuals who have lost someone to suicide. While the Out of the Darkness Walk in Santa Rosa fundraising walk is going to look different this year, the mission to Save Lives and Bring Hope to Those Affected by Suicide has not changed. Sonoma County participants are a strong and resilient community, united in our effort to fight suicide, raise awareness, educate our communities, support those who have lost loved ones, and support those with lived experience.
Join the Santa Rosa Out of the Darkness Experience on September 26. The Santa Rosa Out of the Darkness Experience is a real walk, but on your own terms: you get to choose your own course, what time you start, and who walks next to you (within social distancing guidelines)! The walking is real—it’s the community that’s virtual this year. To join the walk or for more information, please contact Fran Templin, Team Zane –You Matter, ftemplin3@gmail.com. A Sonoma County resident, Fran is the wife of Dr. Jeff Templin DDS – they lost their son Zane to suicide and now work with others through education and advocacy.
Watch “Suicide: The Ripple Effect”, a feature length documentary on the devastating effects of suicide and the positive ripple effects of advocacy, inspiration and hope that are helping millions heal & stay alive. The film highlights Kevin Hines, who at age 19, attempted to take his life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. Today Kevin is a world-renowned mental health advocate, motivational speaker and author who travels the globe spreading a message of hope, recovery and wellness.
