Connect to Protect Virtual Suicide Prevention Buddy Walk/Run

Tinker AFB is hosting a virtual walk/run event for September Suicide Prevention Month. The "connect to Protect" event is encouraging people to learn more on how to connect to those who suffer from a mental health disorder and support them in their day to day struggle. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for ages 10-34 and 4th leading cause of death for ages 35-54. In 2018, on average 132 Americans died by suicide each day. 90% of those who died by suicide had a diagnosable mental health condition at the time of their death. Walk or run on the trails with mental health first aid tip signs or take a Mental Health First Aid class to learn more on how you can "Connect to Protect".

From September 16- September 20, connect as a team of 2 and complete a buddy walk or run, walk 3.2K (2 miles) or run 5K (3 miles). You and your buddy can complete the event of choice anytime, anywhere between September 16-20. Record your time to be entered to win a prize! Register each buddy separately, make sure to turn on text or email notifications and both participants will enter finishing time individually.

By connecting to protect, together we can change the conversation about mental health and reduce the stigma. For more information, contact the Violence Prevention Integrator at 405-582-9848.