Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Mitchell Hash Foundation is on the front lines of suicide prevention, offering community support, counseling resources, and hope for those in crisis. Founder Cynthia Hash joined Morning News to discuss the group’s mission: “#LiftTheStigma and raise the shame. Be aware, share hope, find your purpose and stop suicide,” she said. The foundation provides counseling assistance, especially for those hesitant to use insurance or worried about stigma, and distributes wristbands inscribed with affirmations and crisis resources.  

Hash emphasized the importance of recognizing often-subtle warning signs. “There are signals that sometimes go unnoticed,” she explained, noting that sudden behavior changes, such as purchasing a firearm or engaging in risky activities, can be red flags. “They’re oftentimes very, very good at hiding their depression,” she added. For those left behind, Hash urged compassion over blame: “Please don’t blame yourself because, we don’t know the chemical reactions in their brains… it can be, you know, hereditary frankly, depression and anxiety.” 

She also shared alarming statistics: “Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the U.S.,” she stated, noting that white males account for 68% of deaths, with firearms involved in over half of all cases. The foundation encourages the public to support its efforts and attend the Spark of Hope Walk on October 18th in Louisa. More information is available at mitchellhashfoundation.com. 

Listen to the full conversation here: