(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Resources and support are available to those who have lost a loved one to suicide to help cope while they grieve and heal. Saturday, Nov. 24, was International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, a day designated by Congress for those affected by suicide to come together for healing and support.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Heartbeat Survivors After Suicide are sponsors of this yearly event.

“‘It’s been such a blessing to watch someone go through the freshness of grief where they can barely function to saying, ‘I still miss my loved one immensely every day. But I’m learning to find joy and peace in my life.'”

Organizers say in the past few years El Paso County has had the largest number of suicide deaths in Colorado.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. The 988 suicide and crisis lifeline can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone, chat or text. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.