Lights for Life lantern vigil

Locals gathered at the beach in Biloxi to spread the message of how important mental health is for everyone at the Lights for Life lantern vigil for suicide awareness.

Different organizations came together to shine a light on a dark subject.

Locals honored the memories of victims of suicide as well as promote intervention efforts. Different speakers shared memories of friends and loved ones who lost their lives.

The motto for the entire night was you are never alone and there is help. KAFB Suicide Prevention Program Manager Kati Wijdenes said, “Mental health works. Mental health services are available. Seeking treatment, it works. It makes a difference. It saves lives. It improves lives. The more we can get that message out to people, the better.”

According to reports, Harrison County has the fourth highest suicide rate in Mississippi.