Suicide Prevention/Mental Health
Mobile crisis intervention team services for Circuit 20 (Lee, Hendry, Glades, Collier & Charlotte counties) are available at no cost with a response within 60 minutes, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week call (844) 395-4432.

Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death among Americans. Florida is ranked ninth in the nation for suicide. In 2010, 119 people ages 13 to 97 committed suicide in the Lee County area. More people survive suicide attempts than actually die, but they are often seriously injured and need medical attention.

According to CARES (Community Awareness in Recognizing and Education on Suicide), there are eight important warning signs in someone who is contemplating suicide. These include:

• Depression
• Dramatic mood changes
• Withdrawing from family, friends and society
• Self-destructive behavior, including rage and anger
• Changes in behavior
• Talking about feeling worthless or helpless
• A crisis involving school, work or family
• Giving away prized possessions

A number of suicide prevention strategies are in place for Lee County residents. Programs are offered for middle school and high school students, workshops can be scheduled for community groups and financial assistance for counseling and prescription medication is available for those in need. For additional resources, visit the Statewide Office of Suicide Prevention and Suicide Prevention Coordinating Council’s website at http://www.helppromotehope.com/.

A Comprehensive Approach to Suicide Prevention

For more information or to arrange a speaker on this topic, please call Heather Payne at (239) 343-6812. Speakers are provided free of charge to community groups and schools.