The City of West Hollywood is officially recognizing September as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a designation established in 2008 to promote awareness and support for those affected by suicide. This month provides a platform for the city to honor lives lost and educate the community on available resources, such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which offers immediate support for individuals in crisis. The article references data from the CDC, revealing that suicide is the second leading cause of death among children aged 10 to 14 and third among those aged 15 to 24. It highlights the disproportionate impact of suicide on men, LGBTQ+ youth, and American Indian/Alaskan Native populations. Furthermore, it emphasizes that over 90% of those who died by suicide had underlying mental health conditions, reinforcing the need for accessible mental health services.

The city encourages residents to reach out to trained counselors through the 988 line and offers additional resources through the West Hollywood Care Team. By fostering open conversations and reducing stigma, West Hollywood aims to make strides in suicide prevention. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to addressing mental health within the community.