National Suicide Prevention Week Marred by Suicide in Walton County

In a week when suicide is on the minds of the nation, Walton County added to the rising statistics. A shooting ind out to be a suicide.

This week, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is participating in National Suicide Prevention Week. Survivors of suicide and mental health advocates will join the Metro Atlanta Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) at a candlelight vigil in Piedmont Park Thursday in recognition of National Suicide Prevention Week. 

Special guests include State Sen. Renee Unterman (GA-45), Reverend Beth Toler and Amy Andrews of Amy Andrews Music. Unterman, a former mayor of Loganville, lost her son to suicide a few years ago.

The vigil gives survivors of suicide an opportunity to remember loved ones lost to suicide. It is also brings attention to the rising rate of suicide in Georgia and nationally.

According to a press release, nationally, every 14.2 minutes someone takes his/her own life, making suicide the 10th leading cause of death in America.  In Georgia, an average of 1,100 citizens die by suicide each year, causing suicide rates to surpass those of homicide. 

In addition to the vigil, the Metro Atlanta Chapter will launch a local education campaign during National Suicide Prevention Week to educate Georgians on the risks and warning signs associated with suicide.

Candlelight Vigil Details:

Thursday, Sept. 13, at 8:00 p.m. EST

Piedmont Park (12th Street Entrance)

Atlanta, GA