Suicide is a difficult topic to talk about, but during September – National Suicide Prevention Month – local groups are speaking out against this preventable cause of death.

More than half of those attempting suicide suffer from depression, and the best way to prevent suicide is through early detection, diagnosis and treatment of depression and other mental health conditions.

Organizers of the Out of the Darkness Triangle Walk will raise money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention on Saturday, Sept. 30, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The three-mile walk will be held at Durham Central Park, and the event will also feature live music, food trucks and family activities.

In addition to its prevention efforts, Triangle Survivors of Suicide is also committed to supporting families and friends dealing with the intense grief in the aftermath of the suicide of a loved one. The group hosts support groups in the area and is actively involved with suicide education.

“We lose 45,000 people every year, 123 people every day and five people every hour to suicide in this country – it is an epidemic,” said Larry Bernstein, with the Triangle Survivors of Suicide.

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in this country and the fourth leading cause of death for adults between 15 and 64.

“Triangle SOS is determined to reduce these statistics,” said Bernstein. “One of the ways to do that is by showing people we care, which is exactly what we do during our annual Survivors’ Walk.”

On Saturday, Nov. 11, the group will hold its 6th Annual Survivors’ Walk from noon to 3 p.m. at Halifax Mall in downtown Raleigh.

Anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide or supports someone dealing with this painful loss is invited to join. The event encourages survivors from all over North Carolina to meet and share their experience and support one another.

“Reach out and be supportive of a friend, family member or acquaintance who is struggling. Be there for them,” said Bernstein.