ANNAPOLIS, Md. — In honor of National Suicide Prevention Month, NO HARM, N.A.M, Black People Die By Suicide Too, and We Fight Foundation are proud to present the workshop, Black Mental Health Matters Too: Prioritizing Mental Wellness in the Black Community. This important event will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 24 at the Robinwood Recreation Center. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. and the event is free to attend.
Since 2022, the rapid increase in nationwide suicide rates among Black youth underscores the importance of this event. According to PEW Research, new federal data reveals the suicide rate among Black youth ages 10 to 19 surpassed that of their white peers for the first time in 2022, marking a 54 percent increase since 2018, compared to a 17 percent decrease for white youth. In fact, the suicide rate among Black adolescents is rising faster than other racial and ethnic groups. From 2007 to 2020, the suicide rate among Black 10- to 17-year-olds increased by 144 percent. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for targeted support and intervention.
“Mental health is a cornerstone of a thriving community, and it is crucial that we address the unique challenges faced by our Black residents, “ said Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley. “This workshop will help foster understanding, provide support, and promote wellness. I am grateful to all the organizations involved for their commitment to this important cause.”
The workshop is designed to address critical issues surrounding mental health and suicide prevention within the Black community. Attendees will gain valuable insights through sessions on recognizing signs of suicide, effective support strategies, self-care and wellness practices, community resources, and a complimentary dinner.
Organizations interested in becoming a vendor are invited to complete the vendor registration form. For more information, please contact Coren Makell at cemakell@annapolis.gov.
