The fight against the rising tide of suicide in Bexar County continues, with local health services turning the spotlight on mental wellness at a conference held last Friday. As reported by FOX San Antonio, The Center for Health Care Services hosted a 'behavioral health and wellness conference' aimed at providing services for issues like 'substance use,' youth mental health, and more, part of the effort to address the shocking 33 percent rise in suicide rates within the county.
With suicide now declared the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 10-34 in Bexar County, the situation demands immediate action. The call to be observant and look for changes in loved ones' behavior, as advised by the experts at the conference, is critical, asserting that openness about mental health issues is a key step in prevention. The FOX San Antonio coverage notes the importance of direct engagement with those suffering from mental health concerns.
In light of this growing concern, Greg Watson, a board member for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (or AFSP) South Texas chapter, shares his personal journey, turning to self-medication after his father's suicide. Watson told KSAT about the silver lining the pandemic brought, where mental health and telehealth apps experienced a boom, providing an alternative for those seeking support but are reluctant to attend in-person events or therapy sessions.
Meanwhile, the AFSP has been actively developing programs aimed at the most vulnerable populations, taking note of the dire statistics. Among the most popular, 'Talk Saves Lives,' addresses various segments of society, including the LGBTQ+ communities and the elderly, Julia Hewitt, Local AFSP Chair, told KSAT. It seems that these initiatives address the prevention challenge by educating and connecting affected communities. Recognizing the usefulness of modern technology, Hewitt and Watson also celebrated the launch of the 988 suicide prevention hotline, a significant stride in making crisis intervention more accessible.
For those looking to support the cause or in need of services, AFSP organizes annual events such as Survivor Day and the Out of the Darkness walk, with registration details available on their website. For individuals in crisis, immediate support can be found by texting 741741 or calling the new 988 hotline.
