Cumberland County Mayor Allen Foster has proclaimed September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, bringing local focus to a critical public health issue.

Highlighting that over 1,200 Tennesseans lose their lives to suicide annually, Foster emphasized that these individuals are cherished family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers whose absences deeply affect their communities.

The proclamation stresses that suicide is preventable. Local officials are urging residents to learn warning signs, engage in open and non-judgmental conversations, and help connect vulnerable individuals with professional support.

Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis, or those concerned about someone who is struggling, are reminded that help is readily available: