County Executive David Crowley Observes Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
MILWAUKEE, WI – September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness on the topic of suicide prevention and spread vital information to people affected by suicide or suicidal ideation.
“This September, I want to remind all Milwaukee County residents facing a crisis that they are not alone and that asking for help is not a weakness or something to be ashamed of,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “During these challenging times, it is key that we all recognize and acknowledge the painful struggles that our neighbors all too often have to struggle in silence. Milwaukee County is here to say that you do not have to go through it alone. We have resources and partnerships available that can and do help residents every single day. I encourage all residents, not just those in crisis, to seek out and share these resources, as they can and do really make a difference.”
For those in crisis, the Adult Crisis Mobile Team is just one call away at 414-257-7222. This is a multi-disciplinary team made up of nurses, social works, and mental health clinicians who provide assessments, emotional support, and resource linkage to those experience mental health struggles.
In addition, throughout the month of September, Milwaukee County’s Behavioral Health Division is taking part in community-wide events to raise awareness of suicide prevention.
9/17, Friday at 6:30 PM: Veterans Journey Home, Screening and Dinner
9/19, Sunday at 8:00 AM: Project 22 MKE, Walk Run, Ride
9/22, Wednesday at 10 AM: Firearms, Means Safety, and Suicide Prevention: A Clinical Workshop
9/22, Wednesday at 5:30 PM: Question, Persuade, Refer
9/23, Thursday at 9:00 AM: Signs of suicide, asking about suicide, validating feelings, encouraging help, and expediting treatment training
9/29, Wednesday at 2:00 PM: Question, Persuade, Refer (hosted by CARS Milwaukee County)
9/30, Thursday at 4:00 PM: Hoan Alone Screening and Presentation
“There is no single cause of suicide, but one of the risks is social isolation, and there is scientific evidence for reducing the risk by making sure we connect with one another,” concluded County Executive David Crowley. “After over a year of physical distancing many in our community are feeling isolated and are anticipating another long winter. We can all play a role through the power of connection by checking-in with friends, family members, neighbors, and co-workers. You can reach out to have a conversation about how you are both taking care of your mental health at this time. Or you can find moments during everyday conversations with those who are closet to us to check-in on what those closest to you are doing to protect their mental health. These conversations are a big help to the County’s effort to prevent suicides.”
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