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City of Milton recognizes National Suicide Awareness Month

| Collin Bestor

Mayor Heather Lindsay proclaimed September as Suicide Awareness Month during a City Council meeting Sept. 8, presenting a proclamation to Pastor Bill Wright of Share Your Heart of Northwest Florida.

Milton Mayor Heather Lindsay presents Pastor Bill Wright with a proclamation recognizing the month of September as National Suicide Awareness Month.

Citing national data, the proclamation stated that suicide is the second-leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 34 and the 12th-leading cause of death in Florida.

Veterans face a suicide rate 60 percent higher than the national average, and suicide is the leading cause of death among new mothers, with the highest risk nine to 12 months after birth.

The proclamation also stated figures from 2021 that show fewer than half of adults with mental illness received the care they needed and that nearly 70 percent of children seeking mental health care were unable to receive it.

Lindsay recognized Wright, who provides consulting and training for first responders, and Police Chief Jennifer Frank. Lindsay noted that first responders often see things that most people never have to and that can carry a lasting toll.

The proclamation urged anyone in crisis to call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Veterans can reach specialized care by calling 988 and pressing 1.

New and expectant mothers can call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262.

 

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