AFSP is the largest not-for-profit organization in the U.S. dedicated to the battle against suicide and committed to greater awareness and advocacy for all mental illnesses. The money they raise goes directly to research, suicide prevention, support groups, and advocacy programs.
It is our country's culture of silence that directly contributes to the needless suffering and loss of lives that too often result from untreated mental illnesses.
So many people today suffering from a mental illness, be it depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, or countless others, live in shame and secrecy because of what they have to endure. There is a fierce stigma attached to even the term "mental illness." It is a stigma based in ignorance.
We walk this October to help raise money that will go directly to research and advocacy for both people who have lost loved ones to suicide and for people living with mental illnesses. It is a noble cause, and every year, the walks continue to grow in numbers.
This fact is especially inspiring because it shows that more and more Americans are rising up and taking a stand against the suffocating fear and shame associated with mental illnesses and exhibited by so many. Until we can talk about what's happening to us, we simply cannot move forward.
Team Vigilant Monkey has pledged to raise $1,000 to support the cause. Interested in donating, joining our team, or both? Check out our page:
http://afsp.donordrive.com/team/vigilantmonkey
For more information about the walks and where exactly the money they raise goes, check out:
AFSP - Out of the Darkness Walks
We will be writing more about the cause and our efforts in the coming months. If you’re interested in getting involved in any way at all, please let us know, and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Olga Navia is proud to volunteer for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. She is a member of the AFSP’s Long Island “Out of the Darkness Community Walk” Planning Committee and is busy right now figuring out new and inventive ways to get the word out. If you can help in any way, let the VM team know. For more info, you can also check out Olga's website at allbodiesrise.blogspot.com.