There is still time to sign up and participate on Sunday, September 15, as walkers will gather at the county’s social services building at 100 Old Route 6 in Carmel. This walk, like hundreds of others around the country organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, is at the core of the “Out-of-the-Darkness” movement that began two decades ago, giving people the courage to speak more openly about suicide and their own connections to the cause. Friends, family members, neighbors and coworkers walk side-by-side, supporting each other in memory of those who have died by suicide. Together they have been building a culture that prioritizes mental health by working to reduce stigma, enhance access to care and fund research efforts.

Suicide is the 11^th leading cause of death in the United States, and it can be prevented. The best ways to do this are through early detection, diagnosis and treatment of depression and other mental health conditions. Find more information visit afsp.org or call 888-333-AFSP.

For people in distress, or for prevention and crisis resources for you or a loved one, the 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support. Just dial or text to “988.” You can also chat to the 988 Lifeline through their website at www.988lifeline.org/. “Best practices” for professionals in the U.S. are also available through this resource.

For registration and more information about the community walks, including Putnam’s, visit: https://afsp.org/walk. Event day onsite registration is also available, starting at 9 am. The walk follows at 10am.