September is Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month. Callaway District Hospital’s Senior Life Solutions is raising awareness about suicide by hosting a Suicide Awareness Walk.

This event will take place at the Callaway Public School track on Sept. 20 from 5–6 p.m. Free hot dogs, chips, and bottled water will be available while supplies last, along with free information about Suicide Prevention and Awareness.

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), there are, on average, 130 suicide deaths a day and an estimated 1.2 million suicide attempts in 2020. Each September, many across the country work together to help bring awareness to suicide and encourage education to help in the prevention of more lives lost.

“By raising awareness and educating people about the signs that can indicate someone is having suicidal thoughts or are possibly in danger of attempting suicide, we can help to prevent suicide from happening,” said Senior Life Solutions Kelly Herbig, RN/ Program Director. “Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month is a chance to take time to stop and assess yourself and those around you to ensure those who need help have access to it and aren’t living at risk.”

Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about mental health, have some food, and connect with others in the community.

Callaway District Hospital’s Senior Life Solutions program is designed to meet the unique needs of individuals typically 65 and older, experiencing depression and/or anxiety related to life changes that are often associated with aging.

If you or someone you know is struggling with a decline in mental health, our program wants you to know we are here to help. Whether through our program, or another service, our team works to identify and address the emotional needs of those in our community and provide support.

If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately. If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

If you need more information, education, or would like to discuss support, please call 308-836-2153 or visit www.callawayhospital.org