Columns Letters to the Editor

Letter to the editor: Suicide prevention requires attention, compassion and action

Hello, Gig Harbor Now and Followers.

I am Thelma Brown, President of the Gig Harbor/Key Peninsula Suicide Prevention Coalition.

On behalf of our Coalition, we would like to thank Mayor Markley and the City Council for proclaiming September as the Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. It is truly an honor to be supported by our Mayor, City Council, and Community.

One of the most important causes our nation faces is saving lives through suicide prevention.  Suicide is the No. 1 cause of death in teens.  Over 5,000 veterans die by suicide each year.

Suicide prevention requires our unwavering attention, compassion, and action.  Each and every one of us has the power to make a difference in people’s lives, to be the light that brings them hope!

The GH/KP SPC worked with the Transportation Department to get the “There is Hope” signs on the Narrows Bridge, which has resulted in saving two lives so far, that we know of.

One of our main goals for this year is to have our students trained to become Youth Mental Health First Aiders to help break down the stigma that surrounds mental health and to open our hearts and ears to those who need it most.

As we work together to prevent suicide, be the friend who listens without judgment, befriend our veterans, and talk with them when the opportunity arises.

Last, but not least, remember to take care of yourselves.  Together we can create communities where everyone knows they are valued and where hope prevails over depression and despair.

Thank you,

Thelma Brown, President

Judson Morris, Vice President

Anne Nesbit, Secretary

Myrna Veles, Treasurer

Becky Armbruster, Outreach Coordinator

Bob Anderson, Kathy Weymiller, Gina Cabidolu, Laurel Shultz, and Christina Lynch, board members