Actor Ashley Judd and singer-songwriter Aloe Blacc, who have both experienced the loss of loved ones to suicide, participated in an event on Tuesday to support the Biden administration's new national strategy aimed at preventing suicide. Judd's mother, country star Naomi Judd, passed away nearly two years ago, while Blacc lost his frequent collaborator, Tim Bergling, in 2018.
The event, which was attended by Doug Emhoff, the husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, marked the unveiling of the administration's blueprint for reducing suicides in the United States. Emhoff emphasized the urgency of the issue, highlighting that approximately 132 individuals take their own lives each day in the country.
During a discussion moderated by Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, Judd shared her personal experience, revealing that her mother had battled untreated mental illness for most of her life. Judd emphasized the importance of proper treatment for mental health conditions and expressed her belief in the power of hope.
Rowe, the executive director of the Suicide Prevention Research Center, stressed the significance of reaching out to individuals in crisis, emphasizing the value of simply being present and offering support. Blacc echoed this sentiment, suggesting that providing moments of joy, such as sharing memories or songs, can make a difference in someone's life.
Both Judd and Blacc emphasized the importance of love and support in combating suicide, with Blacc leading the audience in singing the chorus from “This Little Light of Mine” as a symbol of unity and hope.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available. Reach out by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org for support.
