2023 Suicide Prevention Month Proclamation

Browse Search

i F w EaWn of lextngton, 1+1aq!6arbuqetN SELECT BOARD OFFICE PROCLAMATION September Is known globally as Suicide Prevention Month and throughout the month rnentalhea th advocates, prevention organizations, survivors,allies,and community members unite to promote suicide prevention awareness and Whereas: National Suicide Prevention Week is held the Monday through Sunday surrounding World Suicide Prevention Day which is observed on September 10 and overal 1,these observances are intended to promote awareness, and highlight ht resources available in our communities and share stories-and Whereas: the simple,goals are to learn hove to help those around us and how to tally about suicide without increasing the risk of harm;and Whereas. suicide can affect anyone regardless of age, ability, gender, race, sexual orientation, income level,religion or background; and it is overall the 1 o 'leading cause of death in the United States and the second leading cause of death for people ages 10- 4 and. Whereas: people in the United States die by suicide at a rate of about one death every l l minutes resulting in more than 49,00101 deaths by suicide each year;and Whereas: suicide is preventable and we all have a role to play in order to save lives and create healthy and strong individuals, families,and communities and Whereas.- Many factors can increase the risk for suicide. For example,people who have experienced violence,including child abuse,bullying, and/or sexual violence, are at a higher risk of suicide. Youth who are lesbian,gay,or bisexual also have higher rates of suicidal ideation a.n.d behavior compared to their peers who identify as straight;and Whereas.- we encourage all residents to tale the time to inquire as to the wellbeing of their family,friends,and neighbors during this month and to genuinely convey their appreciation for their existence by any gesture they deem appropriate. NOW, THEREFORE, WE, THE SELECT BOARD of the Town of Lexington, Massachusetts, do hereby proclaim the month of September to be annually recognized as Suicide Prevention Month in the Town of Lexington as we work together to save lives in our community. 1N WITNESS WHEREOF, we have set our hands and caused the seal of Lexington to be affixed herewith on the 21 t of,August 2023. Eh .IAA o, AIR AIv µ. DOUGLAS CA'`ATE JILL I. 1