Councilor Randall Ryti presents a proclamation declaring September 2023 National Suicide Prevention Month in Los Alamos County to Municipal Judge Elizabeth Allen, left, and Social Services Manager Jessica Strong, during Tuesday night’s Council meeting. Courtesy/LAC

COUNTY News:

Los Alamos County Council presented a proclamation, which recognizes September as National Suicide Prevention Month, during Tuesday’s regular meeting.

Councilor Randall Ryti read the proclamation:

WHEREAS, Los Alamos County’s Social Services division is raising awareness of mental health and suicide prevention during the month of September to reduce the stigma surrounding these critical topics, and fosters an environment of understanding and compassion; and

WHEREAS, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (A.F.S.P.), suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34, with more than 48,000 people dying by suicide annually in the United States; and

WHEREAS, suicide is a serious public health issue that impacts families, friends and communities, transcending all demographic boundaries, of which Los Alamos County is not immune; and

WHEREAS, Los Alamos County publicly places its full support behind those who work in the field of mental health, substance use, education, and law enforcement.

NOW, THEREFORE, on behalf of the Council for the Incorporated County of Los Alamos, I do hereby proclaim the month of September 2023 as “NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH IN LOS ALAMOS”

And I call upon all residents to seek mental health and suicide prevention resources online and through the Social Services office at 1183 Diamond Drive, Suite E, and to participate in events promoting mental health awareness scheduled through September at SALA;

AND FURTHERMORE, I strongly encourage individuals experiencing a mental health crisis to call the nationwide crisis line at 988, use the crisis text line at 741741, call 911, or go to the nearest hospital.