Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month by Mayor Bob Courtney

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Madison, Indiana (September 9, 2022) – September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, and this week is a part of an annual campaign to educate and inform people about suicide prevention and its warning signs. By raising awareness, we can help our community and reduce the stigma associated with mental health that often discourages people from reaching out.

Suicide is among the top causes of death in the United States, and while no single cause is responsible, we all have a role to play in preventing it. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (ASFP), there are risk factors and warning signs which may increase the likelihood of an attempt. Risk factors include mental and physical health, as well as environmental and historical factors. Increasing awareness of these signs is an actionable step to approach this need in our community proactively.

By supporting mental health services in our area, we can build a community network readily available for anyone who is struggling. A great resource for our area is ResilientJeffersonCounty.org, where you can find a comprehensive list of nonprofit organizations and mental health providers in Jefferson County. I encourage you to educate yourself on the warning signs and risk factors and to check in on your family members and neighbors.

Next month, the local Out of Darkness Walk is happening on October 15. Join those affected by suicide, and the many people who support them, as we walk to raise awareness and send the message that no one is alone. Visit asfp.org to learn more.

Bob Courtney, Madison’s Mayor