An annual community walk to address suicide and promote mental health will take place Saturday at Civic Center Park in Palm Desert.
“Out of Darkness Community Walk” will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at 43900 San Pablo Ave.
The Riverside University Health System — Behavioral Health, in collaboration with the county’s Suicide Prevention Coalition and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, organized the walk to honor loved ones lost to suicide, raise awareness of suicide and to unite the community with local support.
“Preventing suicide remains a top priority for Riverside County. We are committed to ensuring all residents feel supported and connected to vital resources,” Fourth District Supervisor and Board Chairman V. Manuel Perez said in a statement.
There has been a 16% decrease in suicide rates within the county since 2019 due to education and prevention efforts, according to data from Public Health’s Epidemiology and Program Evaluation.
“At RUHS, we approach suicide prevention through compassionate outreach and consistent education,” said Dr. Matthew Chang, RUHS Behavioral Health Director. “By walking together, we strengthen the message than no one is alone and that support is always available.”
Participants will receive a complimentary T-shirt while supplies last. Registration is at rivcospc.org/events/out-darkness-walks.