Memorandum
Date: September 15, 2026
To: The Honorable Lake County Board of Supervisors
From: Elise Jones, Director of Behavioral Health Services
Subject: Adopt Proclamation Designating the Month of September 2026 as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in Lake County
Executive Summary:
DESIGNATING THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2026 AS
NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS MONTH IN LAKE COUNTY
WHEREAS, September is recognized across the United States as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about suicide, promoting hope, encouraging open conversations, reducing stigma, and reminding individuals and communities that suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility; and
WHEREAS, suicide is a serious public health concern that affects individuals, families, friends, coworkers, and entire communities, regardless of age, background, or circumstance; and
WHEREAS, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month provides an opportunity to remember and honor those whose lives have been lost to suicide, support those who have been impacted by suicide loss, and recognize the courage of individuals who have experienced suicidal thoughts or survived a suicide attempt; and
WHEREAS, creating communities where people feel connected, supported, valued, and comfortable asking for help is an important part of suicide prevention, and every person has a role to play by reaching out, listening without judgment, and connecting others with support and resources; and
WHEREAS, increasing awareness and education about the warning signs of suicide, protective factors, and available resources can empower community members to recognize when someone may be struggling and take action to help; and
WHEREAS, Lake County Behavioral Health Services works throughout the community to promote mental health and wellness, provide suicide prevention education, connect residents with behavioral health resources, and strengthen community partnerships that support suicide prevention and awareness; and
WHEREAS, help and support are available to individuals experiencing a mental health or suicide-related crisis through resources including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, the Lake County Behavioral Health Crisis Line at 1-800-900-2075, and other local behavioral health services and community resources; and
WHEREAS, the theme of this year’s Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, “Reaching Out - Supporting Hope,” reminds us that a simple conversation, a caring connection, or an offer of support can make a meaningful difference for someone who may be struggling; and
WHEREAS, the residents, organizations, schools, businesses, community leaders, and service providers of Lake County are encouraged to participate in Suicide Prevention Awareness Month by learning about suicide prevention, talking openly about mental health, supporting those who are struggling or grieving, sharing resources, and working together to build a community where everyone knows they are not alone.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED the Lake County Board of Supervisors and the Lake County Behavioral Health Services, does hereby designate September 2026 “Suicide Prevention Awareness Month” in Lake County, and that the residents of Lake County are encouraged to join together in raising awareness, supporting hope, fostering connection, reducing stigma, and taking action to prevent suicide in our community.
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Recommended Action: Adopt Proclamation Designating the Month of September 2026 as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in Lake County