Annual Suicide Prevention and Remembrance Walk will be Thursday at the Sikeston Sports Complex

SIKESTON — For the past handful of years, the Sikeston community has rallied around those who have been lost to suicide and the families impacted by the growing epidemic.

On Thursday, Sept. 26, Bootheel Behavioral Health will host the Suicide Prevention and Remembrance Walk as September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

The walk will take place from 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. at the Sikeston Sports Complex.

The event centers on honoring and supporting those lost to suicide, those who have lost a loved one to suicide and those who currently are battling depression, bipolar and anxiety and suicidal ideation.

Education is vital to combating suicide, said Jennifer Hartlein, director of fund development and public relations for Bootheel Behavioral Health.

“We started the event because of the need for two things: first and foremost, we wanted to do something in our community for suicide prevention. And out of that thought, the walk was developed,” said Hartlein. “As we were planning the walk, we thought it was important to have a tab of remembrance. Most importantly, [we] wanted to educate the community.”

Hosting the event and illuminating the epidemic simply comments on the community support, as mental illness continues to be a viable threat.

“I think our community is ready,” said Hartlein. “The community wants a new action; they want to talk about it. They don’t want to necessarily hide behind mental health. There is a push to break the stigma so more people can get help. That is our ultimate goal.”

Participants are urged to come dressed as they are.

“We start at 5:15, so people can come from work, straight from school or headed to the Cotton Carnival,” said Hartlein.

With increasing data comes additional education and awareness.

The following signs may mean someone is at risk for suicide:

— Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself

— Talking about hopelessness

— Increasing the amount of drugs and/or alcohol

— Showing rage or talking about revenge

— Extreme mood swings

—Reckless behavior, withdrawing

In Southeast Missouri, suicide rates are higher in adults than in youths.

According to the Centers for Disease Control , or CDC, suicide rates increased by a staggering 37% from 2000 to 2018.

After decreasing by 5% for the ensuing three years, the rates ticked upwards to their peak in 2022.

By the numbers (as of 2022):

— 13.2 million have pondered suicide

— 3.8 million made plans to commit suicide

— 1.6 million attempted suicide

— More than 49,000 deaths occurred by way of suicide in 2022

— On average, there was one death every 11 minutes

Source: Centers for Disease Control