During the month of september, the week of September 8th-14th is separated to celebrate national suicide prevention week. Community’s all around the world use this week to learn more about mental illness and suicide and how we can help prevent it.

Many participate in what is called the Out of The Darkness Walk, where groups gather together and share their stories wether it be what their lives are like when dealing with loosing someone to suicide or their own survival experience. This event started in 2004 and the Out of the Darkness community has continued to grow as friends, family and strangers gather to bring attention to this very important topic.

Although not everyone will have their own experience we all unfortunately will end up meeting someone who knows someone who does have a story. This week is especially important for teens and young adults to participate in, since one’s mental health starts becoming more prominent throughout their teenage years.

In the US 10% of highschool students attempted suicide last year and over 12 million people ages 18-25 have reported to experience a mental health issue in this past year. This week is so crucial to have because it makes it more possible for our communities to learn more about others lives and experiences, in order to make all us more understanding and educated individuals.

Even if you are not struggling yourself there are many ways you can help others, whether that be through organizations like American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) or talking to your friends and family that could be struggling. A few ways to help through organizations could be, donating, joining the Out of The Darkness Walk and sharing your own stories therefore people are more comfortable with the topic. Many struggle with mental health and yet the topic is still considered taboo, by sharing experiences we as a society can change that.