September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — Local walks planned

ROGERS CITY, Mich. – September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

The state health department said they recorded close to 1,300 deaths by suicide in 2020.

Local groups are doing their part to help spread awareness.

Rogers city will host a Out of the Darkness Community Walk September 26.

Organizers said everyone is welcome. The walk will bring light to such a taboo subject.

One volunteer said suicide affects many people from different walks of life — including herself.

Walk volunteer Jane Trestain shares her experience after losing her son to suicide.

“I was just mentally in a really bad place,” said volunteer and Out of Darkness Walk Chair Jane Trestain. “I was depressed I was filled with anxiety, filled with guilt you know how could I have missed this, what could I have done different, which is pretty normal for people who have been through this. ”

Trestain said for anyone who’s hesitant or experiencing grief, this is the perfect place for support.

“When I saw the people, I knew I wasn’t alone anymore,” said Trestain. “It really helps bring hope, and a sense of community that are people that you can reach out to once you go to one of these events.”

The Out of the Darkness walk starts at 11 a.m. at Roger City’s Area Senior Center. A fun zone for kids and a Hope Tent will be available for the community.

Resource tables will also be on hand the day of the walk. Mental Health professionals will be available to provide resources if anyone is struggling.

The Alpena suicide Prevention Team will also host a walk Saturday September 25 at Bayview park.