ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – As Suicide Prevention Month draws to a close, a rally held Wednesday night gave people a chance to openly discuss and learn about mental health and suicide, especially in the Black community.
The conference introduced a new program by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention called “LETS Save Lives,” which focuses on reducing the stigma African Americans may face when it comes to mental health.
Marquita Madden is a program manager for AFSP and spokesperson for the conference. She lost two brothers and her father to suicide, something she says her family never opened up about. That’s why she speaks out, to encourage others to not keep their feelings to themselves or avoid difficult topics.
“In the black community and in faith communities, we tend to be a little hesitant to talk about our mental health. We tend to follow the formula that you just pray and your problems will go away or you just need to be stronger,” Madden said.
One of the main purposes of the meeting is to recognize that not opening up and listening to others who are going through difficult times makes things even more difficult.
“A lot of issues like anxiety and depression can be solved by praying and relying on your faith, which is great, but sometimes we just need a little extra help,” said conference attendee Alberta Craighead.
The meeting also discussed how important it is not to blame yourself if one of your loved ones dies by suicide.
These reminders can help ease feelings of guilt or shame and encourage loved ones to live another day.
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