WHEREAS, September is known as Suicide Prevention Month, a time in which mental health advocates, individuals, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and communities around the country unite to promote suicide prevention awareness; and
WHEREAS, suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race, orientation, income level, religion, or background; and
WHEREAS, Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death among adults in the US, and the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-24; and
WHEREAS, each suicide directly impacts a minimum of 100 additional people, including family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and community members; and
WHEREAS, Suicide Prevention Month provides the opportunity to educate our community about the warning signs for suicide and how to reach out and connect to those experiencing an emotional crisis; and
WHEREAS, World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) was established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with the World Health Organization (WHO) and focuses attention on the issue, reduces stigma, and raises awareness among organizations, government, and the public, giving a singular message that suicide can be prevented; and
WHEREAS, Local organizations like Suicide Prevention Services (SPS) and national organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) are on the front lines of a battle that many still refuse to discuss in public, as suicide and mental illness remain a taboo topic; and
WHEREAS, all residents are encouraged to take the time to inquire as to the well-being of their family, friends, and neighbors and to genuinely convey their appreciation for their existence by any gesture they deem appropriate such as a simple phone call, message, handshake, or hug, which can go a long way towards helping someone realize that suicide is not the answer.
NOW, THEREFORE I, Vicki Tesoro, by virtue of the authority vested in me as First Selectman of the Town of Trumbull, Connecticut do hereby proclaim September 10, 2023 as, National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Town of Trumbull to be affixed on the 10th day of September in the year 2023.
Vicki A. Tesoro, First Selectman