I would like to thank Publisher Alan Cruikshank for his column on depression and Parkinson’s disease that appeared in the most recent Times.

He shared that individuals with Parkinson’s disease often have depression as a result of the disease. But, it is often difficult to separate depression, as Alan pointed out, from the condition itself. Many chronic health issues pose the same problem.

It seemed that Robin Williams’ death compelled Alan to speak out on this topic, and, I feel the same way. I have worked with those depressed and contemplating suicide in the past, and feel I must say or do something. I know that the numbers of suicides are increasing yearly, but the awareness of the problem is not improving. Suicide prevention hotlines are available, but people must know they are depressed to get help, and know that resources are available to use them.

People have questions regarding mental illness, depression and suicide; but most never ask them until they or their family, or a friend is affected. Recent literature supports the need for community in the prevention of suicide. Isolation and alienation are devastating for the depressed individual. It is my hope, that in providing an open forum for people to receive support, some of the stigma and silence will be broken.

I want to start a grassroots movement to provide general information and resources regarding depression and suicide. Involved in this movement will be those who survived a suicide attempt, failed a suicide attempt, or have survived a loved one’s suicide. The movement will travel to churches, community centers and libraries throughout the country.

I would like to kick-off my Mobilize Kindness movement in Fountain Hills. Please contact me at drkwillfahrt@gmail.com if you can help or have the perfect venue for this important program.