Sutter-Yuba Behavioral Health - Prevention and Early Intervention will host the first bi-county walk across Twin Cities Memorial Bridge called "Bridging Hope: A Walk for Suicide Awareness and Prevention" on Saturday, September 30.

More than 300 people have pre-registered online, but online registration is closed.

The free event begins with registration at 8 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, 715 Fifth Street, Marysville, and will provide awareness and resources to prevent suicide in both Sutter and Yuba counties.

It is estimated that half of all Americans will suffer a diagnosable mental illness in their lifetime. According to the American Psychiatric Association, more than half of those with mental illness won't receive help for their disorders. Often, people avoid or delay seeking treatment due to concerns about being treated differently or fears of losing their jobs and livelihood. That's because stigma, prejudice, and discrimination against people with mental illness remain problematic.

The event aims to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention by bringing people together to reduce stigma and strengthen positive community relationships. There will also be resources from partner agencies from both Sutter and Yuba Counties, along with Mental Health professionals.

Participants in the walk will cross the Twin Cities Memorial Bridge, commonly known as the Fifth Street Bridge, from the Yuba County side to the Sutter County side and return to the park in Marysville.

For more information about the event, contact the Yuba-Sutter Prevention and Early Intervention team via email pei@co.sutter.ca.us.