Watch Chairman Gates and Supervisor Hickman’s message about Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States and, on average, one Arizonan will commit suicide every seven hours, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
It is because of this the Board of Supervisors joined a nationwide effort to bring real human connection and vital resources to those without thoughts of suicide. The Board proclaimed September Suicide Prevention Awareness month.
“As one of the largest employers in Maricopa County, we can really make a difference,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Bill Gates, District 3.
Suicide is a serious public health problem that affects people of all ages. It is the second leading cause of death for ages 15 through 34, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
District 4 Supervisor Clint Hickman says the Board is especially interested in providing resources for veterans in crisis, as approximately 20 United States veterans commit suicide per day.
“Ten percent of the county workforce is made up veterans,” Supervisor Hickman said. “So they’re a very important part of our family.”
The Board of Supervisors encourages residents to reach out to those who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide and use the resources below:
Learn from personal testimonies of those who have experienced the tragedy of suicide and what resources are available: