Title
Resolution proclaiming September as Suicide Prevention Month.
Body
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, which helps promote resources and awareness around the issues of suicide prevention and how you can help others who maybe considering suicide; and
WHEREAS, suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background, is the third leading cause of death among young people, and is too often the result of mental health conditions that effect people when they are most vulnerable; and
WHEREAS, every year across the U.S., suicide claims the lives of 40,000 people, while another 500,000 people attempt it, and 90% of those who die by suicide have an underlying mental illness; and
WHEREAS, studies conducted by the Lake County Health Department, with the support of the Lake County Healthcare Foundation, estimate there are 18,000 persons with mental, behavior or emotional health conditions living in Lake County; and
WHEREAS, each year, for the past 8 years, between 60 and 70 persons commit suicide in Lake County; and
WHEREAS, there is a need for a strong community action for suicide prevention and a coordinated crisis intervention system because with treatment, these individuals can achieve optimal physical and mental health as well as social and emotional well-being; and
WHEREAS, there are many existing businesses, non-profit organizations, agencies, healthcare providers, and governments currently investing in mental, emotional, and behavioral health services in Lake County, but case studies reveal there is a greater chance of success when groups coordinate services and collaboratively organize around outcomes; and
WHEREAS, Lake County Board Chairman Aaron Lawlor and the Honorable Susan Garrett recently announced a new community-based mental health initiative that will focus on data-sharing and researched-based best practices designed specifically for Lake County to form stronger prevention, build capacity, address gaps, and enhance mental, behavioral and emotional health services; and
WHEREAS, suicide awareness and prevention is just one part of the overall goal of the prevention of mental illness.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Lake County Board, that September be recognized as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and those who struggle with suicidal thoughts are encouraged to call Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255); and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, during this month, the Lake County Board and its partners will raise awareness about suicide prevention and promote the “BeThe1To campaign” to emphasize that everyone has a role to play in suicide prevention, encouraging everyone to “Be The 1 To” take action to save lives; and
DATED, at Waukegan, Lake County, Illinois, on September 13, 2016.