Chesterfield to focus on suicide prevention in September with event about local resources

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Chesterfield County and the Chesterfield Suicide Awareness and Prevention Coalition are looking to raise awareness for National Suicide Prevention Month, with an event to be held offering information about local resources.

September marks National Suicide Prevention Month. During this time, Chesterfield is looking to educate the public on available resources in mental health emergencies, especially for those dealing with addiction.

According to the county, individuals with "problem gambling behaviors" are two to nine times as likely to attempt suicide than those who don't.

For those who experience drug and alcohol addiction, that number is even higher, being 14 times more likely to die by suicide than others.

"There are so many things that can impact a person’s mental health, and when it comes to addiction, the data is clear about its relationship to suicide," said Melissa Ackley, Prevention Services manager for Chesterfield Mental Health Support Services.

Ackley added that, "people who deal with substance use are more likely to attempt and die by suicide, just as those who show signs of gambling addiction are more likely to attempt it, too. It is important that we all understand the risks involved considering that suicide remains one of the leading causes of death nationally."

People are invited to attend Chesterfield Mental Health's Mental Health and Recovery Resource Fair on Thursday, Sept. 18, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Beulah Recreation Center, to learn more about local resources related to mental health and recovery.

The national suicide and crisis hotline 988 is also available 24/7 with free and confidential support for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources.

"The Coalition hopes that through educational efforts it can help foster a community that is more ready, willing, and able to help those who are struggling, or even contemplating suicide, to seek support and resources," Chesterfield County said.

For more information and resources on suicide awareness and prevention, click here. Help is also available through Chesterfield Crisis Intervention by calling 804-748-6356.