The Clovis City Council will issue a proclamation Monday, September 16 at 6pm recognizing September as Suicide Prevention Month. The proclamation will take place during the regularly scheduled City Council Meeting and will be presented to attending members of the Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health (FCDBH).

In addition, FCDBH will have on display its Suicide Prevention Camaro, which it is transporting to various locations throughout the month of September to help raise awareness of the important issue. Members of the public will be encouraged to sign the vehicle as a pledge to help educate others on suicide prevention.

Suicide Prevention Month may only last 30 days, but the issue- and the mental health stigma associated with it- is something many face on a daily basis. A recent community survey conducted in Fresno County found that 79% of participants had personal or professional experience with suicide or suicide attempts.

The Fresno County Board of Supervisors formally adopted a Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan and Suicide Risk Assessment Tool, on September 10, 2019, which provides a framework for addressing and preventing suicide in Fresno County. This action is the first of its kind in California.

Those needing resources or help can visit FresnoCares.org or call 1(800) 273-TALK (8255).