HomeMy WebLinkAbout20212637.tiffPROCLAMATION
SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS MONTH - SEPTEMBER 2021
WHEREAS, suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, orientation, income level,
or background; and
WHEREAS, over 48,000 deaths annually are attributed to suicide; with suicide rates in Colorado ranking
6th nationally, and 70 lives lost to suicide in Weld County during 2019; and
WHEREAS, we all have a role in suicide prevention, which starts with helping those around us by learning
how to release our own shame around mental health, sharing messages of hope, and talking about suicide
without increasing risk of harm; and
WHEREAS, one of the most important protective factors from suicide is having a trusted person to turn to
when feeling isolated or hopeless; a person who will not judge, dismiss, or try to fix the problem, but
instead create a safe space for individuals to feel their feelings, tell their stories, and share their pain; and
WHEREAS, North Range Behavioral Health's Suicide Education and Support Services (SESS) program offers
support to those who have lost someone to suicide and provides resources and education that help Weld
County residents build critical suicide prevention skills and learn to talk about a subject that has been taboo
for far too long; and
WHEREAS, hope exists in Weld County because of the collaborative prevention and education efforts of
North Range, Suicide Education and Support Services (SESS), Imagine Zero of Weld County, numerous
survivors, and community partners; and
WHEREAS, September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month with the goal of
promoting awareness surrounding suicide prevention resources and support available to us and our
community; and
WHEREAS, we encourage all residents to take the time to inquire about suicide prevention resources
available nationally and in Weld County and check in on the wellbeing of their family, friends, and neighbors
to genuinely convey their appreciation for their existence by any gesture they deem appropriate.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the Board of Weld County Commissioners that September
2021 be known as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and call upon the citizens, government agencies,
public and private institutions, businesses and schools to recommit our community to increasing awareness
and understanding of behavioral health, and the need for appropriate and accessible services for all citizens.
Hello