Atlanta VAHCS to host 3rd annual Suicide Prevention and Recovery Walk and Roll

September is Suicide Prevention and Recovery Month – a time to shift public perception, spread hope, and share vital information with Veterans and their families. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, September 18 at the Atlanta VA Arcadia Clinic, located at 250 N. Arcadia Ave., Decatur, GA, at 11 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. The Walk and Roll is free, and registration is highly encouraged. All Veterans, their families, caregivers, community members, community partners are invited to participate to increase awareness of services and support available throughout the region. “VA’s top clinical priority is preventing suicide among all Veterans. Prevention is possible – no one is alone,” explains Kajuana Pitts, the facility’s Suicide Prevention Coordinator and organizer of the walk. The community is invited to participate in the event which includes a one-mile walk. “Each year, the event grows a little larger. The support from the community illustrates that we are collectively working to support our Veterans in recovery,” said Pitts.

In addition to internal support, the Atlanta VA is proud to partner with Veteran Service Organizations and community partners to share resources with Veterans and their families. Dr. Tamara Campbell, the Executive Director of Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention is scheduled to attend the event. “Preventing suicide helps preserve lives, allowing Veterans to continue contributing to their families and the community. Our focus on prevention encourages Veterans to seek help, and reduces the stigma associated with mental illness,” noted Atlanta VA Executive Director Kai D. Mentzer. “Atlanta is proud to have Dr. Campbell join our efforts in support of this vital public health issue,” added Mentzer. Community groups who are interested in participating in the event should contact Kajuana Pitts at 678.431.2748 or Chelle Lamb at 404.285.1673.