By Tammie Colon
Guest Columnist
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This is a dedicated time to raise awareness and support those affected by suicide. The Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Allen, Auglaize and Hardin Counties continues to be committed to funding services that support those in need.
Prevention works, and we can all help those who are hurting most in our communities.
Creating a community that is aware and committed to helping others allows those in need to ask for assistance. Depression is a real medical condition. There are physiological changes a person cannot control. These symptoms require medical attention and recovery services. Living with chronic and debilitating depression is not a decision, but we do not want suicide to be the solution.
Warning signs include talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless, or being a burden to others. If someone talks about unbearable pain or having no reason to live, take them seriously. Connect with professionals who can help the individual by calling the local HOPEline at 1-800-567-4673.
Behavioral changes are also warning signs. Be aware of increased withdrawal, isolation or changes in sleep patterns. Someone might start giving away their things or saying goodbye. New or increased use of alcohol or drugs can also be a red flag. Mood swings can be a sign, especially if someone suddenly becomes very calm or cheerful after being depressed.
How can we create a safe community where people ask for help? It can be as simple as starting a conversation, sharing the crisis line number or connecting someone with a mental health professional.
If you notice someone struggling, offer your support without judgment. You don’t need to have all the answers — just being there for them can make a difference. It’s also important to reduce access to ways someone can harm themselves, such as firearms or medications, which can significantly lower the risk of suicide. Offer to connect them with a counselor or local resource.
I want to remind our communities that you are not responsible for someone else’s actions. You can make a difference by guiding those in need to resources and professional support. Yet, you are never responsible for another person’s decision.
I am hopeful for our future as we have seen encouraging progress in suicide prevention efforts in Allen, Auglaize, and Hardin counties. This is a testament to the importance of awareness, community support, and resource access in building a safe community where people can ask for help.
Local community partners and leaders have joined the MHRSB to build prevention awareness. Our parks, schools and towns allowed us to place Purple Stop Signs with crisis numbers around the three counties we serve. Agencies are creating new MHRSB-funded drop-in centers. Schools are supporting the growing number of student-led prevention groups such as Positive Peer Advocates (formerly known as Gatekeepers). And our community-based Suicide Prevention Coalitions are finding new ways to prevent suicide locally.
There is hope. There is help.
The Mental Health & Recovery Services Board focuses on prevention, treatment and recovery to ensure residents get the help they need. We fund agencies that provide crisis intervention, counseling and peer support. They help prevent suicide and promote mental health.
Every life saved is a victory, and we remain dedicated to creating communities where everyone feels supported. Remember—you can help by simply referring friends, family, and community members to local resources.
If you are worried about yourself or a loved one, call the local 24/7 crisis line at 1-800-567-4673 (HOPE) or 988. You can also text 741741.
If you are looking for other local support resources, call 211 or visit allen211.org.
To learn more about the MHRSB and the services we fund, visit wecarepeople.org or mhrsb.org. You can also connect with the MHRSB on social media at We Care People. Our office is at 528 W. Market St., Lima, OH 45801.
Tammie Colon is executive director of Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Allen, Auglaize and Hardin counties. Her column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Lima News editorial board or AIM Media, owner of The Lima News.
