HomeMy WebLinkAboutHR Proclamation Supporting Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
Suicide Prevention Awareness Month,
September 1 – 30, 2024
WHEREAS, National Suicide Prevention Month is recognized in September, and
throughout the month mental health advocates, prevention organizations,
survivors, allies, and community members unite to promote and raise
awareness surrounding suicide prevention support and resources available;
and
WHEREAS, suicidal thoughts and intrusions can affect anyone regardless of age, race,
gender, sexual orientation, financial situation, religion and background, and
suicide is a local, national, and international public health problem with far-
reaching social, emotional and economic consequences; and
WHEREAS, in Marin County, 182 friends, neighbors, and family members died by suicide
between 2018 and 2022, with an additional 962 self-harm injuries requiring
visits to the Emergency Room during those years; and
WHEREAS, in the United States, suicide is the second leading cause of death among
individuals between the ages of 10 to 34, and with every death there are over
25 suicide attempts; and when warning signs are recognized, learning the facts
and having conversations with someone we are concerned about can lead to
interventions and suicide can be prevented, and healing can begin; and
WHEREAS, over 90% of the people who die by suicide have an underlying, diagnosable
mental health condition or substance abuse disorder, and destigmatization and
resources for individuals and the supporters of those who are struggling with
mental health and wellness is paramount in supporting personal harm
reduction; and
WHEREAS, the City reminds all residents and community members that the National
Alliance on Mental Illness and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (dial 988)
works to help individuals in crisis and provide resources for loved ones who
want to support individuals, and that everyone can help prevent suicide by
learning the warning signs, promoting prevention and resilience, and
committing to social change.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael hereby
proclaim the month of September 2024, as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in the City of San
Rafael and encourages all citizens to advance equity in mental health, transform how mental health
is understood, perceived, and treated, and strive to build safe and supportive environments for our
community.
Kate Colin
Mayor