Kenda Slaugh and her family (left) organized the Out of the Darkness Community Walk in Meeker last Saturday in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), sponsored by New Earth Spiritual and Metaphysical Healing. JESSE MCCANN/DID I SHUTTER PHOTOGRAPHY
MEEKER | In 2015, Kenda Slaugh lost her best friend to suicide. Since experiencing that loss, she has worked to increase awareness and promote prevention. This year she organized an Out of the Darkness Community Walk in Meeker with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), sponsored by New Earth Spiritual and Metaphysical Healing. Slaugh said she has participated in walks in Vernal to remember her friend and wanted to do something similar in Meeker.
AFSP Colorado area director Mike Barber, who attended the walk last Saturday, said he lost a grandmother to suicide seven years ago. That prompted him to get involved in AFSP, which funds research, education, advocacy and support for those affected by suicide. Also participating in the Meeker walk were representatives from the Veterans Administration, HopeWest and Helping Hearts. Pam Benthall brought her food truck, the Dupires had cotton candy for sale, and a bake sale raised funds.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), deaths by suicide reached an all-time high in the United States in 2022, with the largest increase occurring among older adults. Suicide is now the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S.
If you are concerned that you or someone you know might be experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts, prioritize mental health. There are things you can do that help. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention suggests these steps:
Learn the signs of someone who may be at risk for suicide. Often there are changes in behavior such as mood swings, angry outbursts, or loss of interest in activities they love.
Reach out to someone who you think may be struggling. Trust your gut if you are concerned. Ask directly if they have thoughts of ending their life – research shows this is helpful and does not make them susceptible to the idea.
Connect those who are struggling to help. Share the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline as well as other resources.
The statistics for Rio Blanco County are grim, with 21 deaths by suicide between 2012-2022, according to data from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). Of those, 14 were male and seven were female, and the majority were between 55-64 years of age. Since 2004, four veterans have died by suicide in RBC.
Barber said the suicide rate in rural areas is on the rise, attributed to a lack of mental health services and easy access to firearms. Encouraging people to practice safe firearm storage, including trigger locks and storing ammunition separately, is part of the education work for AFSP. Barber also noted that there is a spike in suicides for people over the age of 65, although the highest rate is among white males between 25-55 years of age.
Raising awareness is key to prevention and reducing the rate of suicide. Slaugh said next year’s event is set for Sept. 10, 2024.
