suicide awareness

Alabama lawmakers have approved legislation aimed at creating a path for people who experience suicidal thoughts to voluntarily store their weapons with licensed gun dealers. The bill would provide lawsuit immunity to licensed firearm dealers who agree to hold someone’s weapon for a period of time.

The FBI is investigating the death of a Black man in Alabama, who was found hanging in an abandoned house, following a request from a local sheriff amid fears among community members who accuse local law enforcement of longstanding, unchecked misconduct.

September marks suicide prevention month, focusing on raising awareness for mental health issues and the individuals affected. Suicide can impact anyone, no matter their age, gender, or background. This month focuses on creating safe spaces for those struggling, and providing resources like The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Project Semicolon, and The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Approximately 135 people are affected by each suicide within the military community according to Blue Star Families. Blue Star Families (BSF) will host a Veteran suicide prevention PSA campaign titled Combat the Silence in Montgomery and Selma.

Today at StoryCorps, Kelly Finley interviews her friend Dale Pfeiffer about Driftwood housing, a non-profit he co-founded to combat chronic homelessness in Mobile. Dale’s story shows that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Note to listeners, suicidal thoughts are mentioned in this piece.