Metro Public Health Department recognizes National Suicide Awareness Month this September

The Metro Public Health Department (MPHD) is recognizing September as National Suicide Awareness Month, highlighted by two separate events about suicide prevention. On Wednesday, September 10th public health professionals, mental health experts and those with firsthand experience will all be sharing messages of suicide prevention and awareness. On Saturday, September 13th the community is invited to an event centered around education and awareness of mental health and suicide.

"In 2024 alone, more than 100 Davidson County residents lost their life to suicide," said Dr. Sanmi Areola, Metro Public Health Department Director of Health. "We at MPHD speak openly about the topic of suicide in the interest of reducing stigma, something that can go a long way towards encouraging more people to seek out help, hopefully leading to more of our family members, friends and neighbors living longer, healthier lives."

The annual Hope is Available event at the Lentz Public Health Center will begin at 9am on Wednesday, September 10th. The event will feature inspirational messages, question-and-answer sessions, resources and more. Speakers from several backgrounds will share their message, all centered around eliminating the stigma of mental health issues like suicide. The Phillip Whitehead award will be once again presented to a community member who elevates the discussion around suicide prevention in Nashville.

The community is invited to attend the inaugural Hope is Available Community Day on Saturday, September 13th at the Woodbine Public Health Center at 224 Oriel Avenue. The event will run from noon to 3pm and will feature special performances, educational resources, food and vendors. The event is free to attend, and several different community organizations will be present to offer education and resources.

Services are available to those in need of mental health assistance. The Metro Public Health Department's Behavioral Health and Wellness division offers mental health screenings by appointment at the Lentz Public Health Center. Appointments can be made by calling 615-340-2172. Further community resources can be found at https://linktr.ee/behavioralhealthwellness. Tennessee Redline is available 24/7 to discuss alcohol, drug, problem gambling, and other addiction information and offers referrals to all citizens of Tennessee at their request. Those suffering a mental health crisis are encouraged to call 988 to speak to a mental health professional.