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 View meeting here: https://youtu.be/HONCM1rqdgE September 28, 2021 – Cindy Richard from York County Suicide Prevention stated that suicide has been a problem in York County. So far, this year, 64 people in the county have died by suicide, which is more than the full year 2020. Cindy said suicide rates have gone down in children and young adults. However, in the last year, they've seen an uptick in older people dying by suicide. "Our older adults need to know its okay to get help if they're having a mental health issues," said Richard. "That it's okay to reach out." White men between the ages of 40 and 60 continue to have the highest risk of dying by suicide. Warnings signs include; threatening to hurt themselves, feeling hopeless, withdrawing from friends or family, and severe mood swings, among others. Some risk factors include loss of job, home or income, death of a loved one or health issues. The Suicide Prevention of York offers free assessments for anyone experiencing suicide ideas, they also offer counseling services. "No matter what age, work group, schools, family, anybody that is dealing with somebody they feel may be suicidal, anybody can call us," said Richard. Cindy believes in the importance of the work that Suicide Prevention of York is involved in, that efforts to save lives, educate and raise awareness about suicide prevention and improving mental health treatment and access to it in our county is a life-and-death initiative we should all get behind. |