September 16, 2021
Mayor Teri Johnston and Commissioner Mary Lou Hoover have proclaimed September as National Suicide Prevention Week.
Commissioner Hoover has been a tireless advocate of raising awareness for years. Suicide is the 8th leading cause of death in Florida, she noted, and over 90 percent of people who die by suicide have a diagnosable and treatable mental health condition.
Additionally, suicide is the only leading cause of death in the United States that has increased every year for the past decade.
“Organizations such as the American are dedicated to saving lives,” reads the proclamation, “and bringing hope to those affected by suicide through research, education, advocacy and resources for those who have lost someone or who personally struggle.”
In the photo: Commissioner Mary Lou Hoover and Mayor Teri Johnston.