FENTRESS COUNTY OFFICIALLY RECOGNIZES SEPTEMBER AS SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH
Fentress County leaders, health organizations, and community advocates gathered in Jamestown to formally designate September as Suicide Prevention Month. County Executive Jacob E. Rosenbaum signed the proclamation alongside representatives from Ridgeview Behavioral Health, UCHRA, the Fentress County Veterans Service Office, and local school leadership.
The collaborative effort highlights the critical need for mental health awareness and resource accessibility across the county. Local officials emphasized that suicide prevention relies heavily on community connectivity and proactive check-ins among neighbors, coworkers, and loved ones.
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Veterans Outreach: The Fentress County Veterans Service Office highlighted unique challenges faced by veterans, urging service members to seek support for mental health, financial, or transition-related struggles rather than facing them alone.
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Youth and Education: Local school systems are prioritizing student mental health by fostering environments where young people can identify trusted adults for guidance.
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Community Partners: Organizations like Ridgeview Behavioral Health and UCHRA continue to serve as vital lifelines for connecting families to essential regional services.
While September brings focused attention to the issue, leaders stressed that mental health advocacy must persist year-round. Residents are encouraged to reach out to one another through a simple phone call or conversation.
Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress can call or text 988 to reach the free, confidential Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
