Those struggling with mental health aren’t alone.
Frederick, MD (TY) Mental health issues are a growing concern in the US with over 45,000 suicides reported in 2017.
According to the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the US and the 11th leading cause of death in Maryland with 630 deaths in 2017.
Maryland and Delaware Area Director of the ASFP, Kat Olbrich, said that knowing the signs of depression and suicide ideation is key for knowing how to intervene.
“There are behavior changes,” Olbrich said. “If you feel like this person is not acting the way they usually do, reach out to them.”
Olbrich explained there are three categories of warning signs for suicide: talk, behavior and mood.
“Reach out to them. Ask are you okay? Are you thinking about suicide?, ‘” Olbrich said. “Using the word suicide does not plant the idea in their head. It actually makes them realize that you are serious about this, and that they can talk to you about their feelings.”
On October 26, the AFSP will host the Out of the Darkness Frederick Walk, at Baker Park, to raise awareness and raise funds for new research, educational programs, public policy advocating, and to support survivors of suicide loss. Check in/registration will start at 8:30 a.m. The walk begins at 10:00 a.m. For more information, please contact:
Contact Name: Roger Martin
Contact Phone: 301-514-4813
Contact Email: [email protected]
Other upcoming walks:
| 09/07/2019 | Carroll County MD Walk, Krimgold Park, 5355 Woodbine Rd. – Woodbine, MD |
| 09/14/2019 | Hagerstown Walk, City Park, Band Shell – Hagerstown, MD |
By Timothy Young