Scott Fadness is mayor of an affluent suburban city, but he told a large crowd at Fishers High School Tuesday night that 11 people committed suicide in the City of Fishers during 2016 and 47 others seriously attempted to take their own lives.  Fadness created a Mental Health Task Force once assuming the office of mayor in 2015 in an effort to battle mental health issues.

The event was “A Night of Hope,” sponsored by HSE Parents in Partnership and the Peyton Riekhof Foundation for Youth Hope.  The foundation was founded by Peyton Riekhof’s father, Mike Riekhof.  Peyton Riekhof committed suicide while being treated for depression.

Nationally known advocate for mental health, Jordan Burnham, told the audience about struggles with depression during his teenage years.  As he was entering his senior year of high school, Jordan was a promising golfer.  Yet his depression led to a suicide attempt that nearly claimed his life.  He now travels the nation telling his story.  He has been featured by news organizations such as the Washington Post, USA Today and CNN.  Sports media has also told his story, such as Sports Illustrated and ESPN.

A panel discussion ensued, with plenty of tough, but anonymous, questions posed from those in attendance.

You can contact the Peyton Riekhof Foundation for Youth Hope at this link.      If you need immediate help, you are encouraged to call 800-284-8439.