Salt Lake County declares September 2026 as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month in a proclamation issued in a notice posted to the city's website.
The document states that suicide claimed 48,824 lives across the United States in 2024, with Utah's suicide rate reaching 19.5 deaths per 100,000 residents in the same year. Utah ranked 7th highest in the nation, losing 665 residents to suicide and experiencing 15 emergency room visits daily for suicide attempts. The text notes that Utah men account for about three in four suicide deaths, women face higher hospitalization rates for attempts, and youth face elevated risks, with 22.9% of high school students seriously considering suicide. Officials highlight that Salt Lake County invests in behavioral health services and works with school counselors, first responders, faith leaders, survivors, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Utah Chapter to prevent suicide. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers free, confidential support 24/7.
Officials urge residents to learn warning signs, check on those in distress, and share the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The proclamation calls for collective action to ensure help is always available.
