Editorial

Unfortunately, depression and suicide are becoming all too common in Cullman County and the nation.

With this horrible trend affecting families and communities, a Friday rally and informational event offers some hope for those who suffer depression or have been affected by suicide.

In step with National Suicide Awareness Month, Preventive Action of Cullman and Cook Ministries are joining forces to host the public event and prayer service at the Cullman County Courthouse.

The event will include a talk from a man who attempted suicide. The speaker, Korey Burris, of Texas, attempted suicide by shooting himself in the face. He will share his experience leading up to the attempt and what happened afterwards leading to his testimony of hope and recovery.

Formed as a grassroots response to 2017’s doubling in local suicides, Preventive Action of Cullman has been informing residents that help is available at monthly meetings throughout the county. The group shares information with those at risk about support mechanisms they otherwise might not know about.

In addition to Preventive Action’s efforts, a committee consisting of healthcare professionals, judicial representatives and law enforcement formed earlier in the year to find hands-on solutions to mental health and suicide. That organization has gained a grant to have a professional case worker available to work with individuals at the Cullman County Correction Center and Cullman Regional. Through that effort and other plans in the making, the goal is to provide a stronger, more effective program to reach those who are uninsured and need counseling and medication.

The rate of suicides in Cullman County has escalated in recent years, with 15 documented cases in 2016, followed by a surge to 30 such cases in 2017.

Preventive Action of Cullman can be contacted at preventiveactionofcullman@gmail.com, while Cook Ministries is available at cookministries@gmail.com. Each organization also has a Facebook page with valuable information.

The efforts rising in Cullman County to alleviate mental health issues and prevent suicide are encouraging. Mental health issues can touch every family at some point. Knowing where to turn for assistance is critical in the intervention of those who are suffering.

Friday’s event at the courthouse begins at 9 a.m. The prayer service starts at 6 p.m. in the front of the courthouse.

The outreach to those dealing with mental health issues looks to be coming together locally and will gain more support with a large turnout Friday.