ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – People across Alaska are participating in walks this month for Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. According to state data, Alaska has been around double the national average for suicide rates over the past decade.
Anchorage and Fairbanks walks
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is hosting a walk Saturday morning starting at West High School in Anchorage. Registration begins at 9 a.m., and walking begins at 10 a.m.
In Fairbanks, an “Out of the Darkness Walk” is scheduled for Sept. 26 with registration at 9 a.m. and walking at 10 a.m. Registration for both walks is available here.
Sitka and Kodiak events
Sitka Counseling is holding two walks this month. A walk for recovery and healing begins at 10 a.m. this Saturday, and a suicide prevention and awareness walk will take place Sept. 26.
In Kodiak, Alaskans already participated in the Kodiak Walk of Hope on Saturday.
Resources available
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention offers resources for those who may be struggling.
Dennis Lasley, with AFSP Alaska, said the organization’s care line is a resource available at all times.
“We have the care line, which is a phenomenal resource and available to anyone 24/7,” Lasley said. “They’re actually a part of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, or the Suicide Prevention Network. And super easy phone number: dial 988, and that will take you to a trained volunteer as someone to listen and have a conversation.”
The number 9-8-8 is available nationwide and in Alaska 24/7.
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