September Declared as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Commissioner John Martin; Kayla Woodle; Dr. Laureen Pagel; and Brea Butler-Gilton

9/16/21 @ 10:45 a.m. - At the September 13th meeting, the Board approved Resolution No. 2021-175, proclaiming the month of September 2021 as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in Nassau County, FL.

September is known around the United States as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and is intended to help promote awareness surrounding each of the suicide prevention resources available in our community. The simple goal is to learn how to help those around us talk about suicide without increasing their risk of harm.

Suicide can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race, orientation, income level, religion or background and according to the Center for Disease Control, 47,500 deaths in 2019 were the result of suicide, making it the 10th leading cause of death among adults in the U.S.

Kayla Woodle, Mobile Response Team/Suicide Prevention Team Leader for Starting Point Behavior Health stated, "It's absolutely vital that we talk abut these difficult subjects. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death and each of those deaths is a tragedy". She challenged everyone to talk to their family members and ask how they're doing. A simple phone call, message, handshake, or hug can go a long way in making someone realize is not the answer.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please seek help immediately! Starting Point has a variety of programs and services available to assist you. Contact them directly at (904) 225-8280.

You can also contact the National Suicide Hotline 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Public Information Officer

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