West Charlotte High School marked World Suicide Prevention Day on Sept. 10 with a Suicide Prevention Walk for students and staff. Part of Suicide Prevention Week, this was the third year for the walk, which aims to raise awareness of suicidal behaviors, reduce social stigmas, see suicide statistically and sociologically, and encourage positive dialogue and engagement to prevent suicide.

“We want to make sure students know they are not alone,” said Whitney Golden-Smith, McKinney-Vento and school social worker. “Suicide is preventable. There are warning signs, and some students are suffering in silence. We want to make sure we provide the necessary resources so they know they may obtain some kind of therapy to prevent suicide.”

The event was part of the school’s suicide awareness and prevention campaign. It included a moment of silence and two laps around the football field, led by peer leaders from Sources of Strength, a suicide prevention and mental health promotion program in secondary schools.

School social worker Tulani Vaughn spoke to the students before the walk began.

“We want you to know if you’re going through something, we are here for you, that your story is important, and your life is important,” she said. “Realize that there are a lot of resources out there for you, and there’s someone here for you.”