The Metro Public Health Department (MPHD) will mark National Suicide Awareness Month with two separate events highlighting the importance of reducing the stigma of mental health issues. On Wednesday, September 11, mental health experts, public health professionals, and those with lived experience will share messages of suicide prevention and awareness. On Saturday, September 14, the community is invited to an event centered around education and awareness of mental health and suicide.
“Each month, an average of nine people die by suicide in Nashville,” said Dr. Joanna Shaw-KaiKai, MPHD Interim Director of Health. “Ignoring the problem will not stop our community’s struggles with suicide. Eliminating the stigma of mental health issues can be a step toward more people seeking care, and ultimately, can be a step toward lowering the number of people in our community considering suicide.”
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The annual Hope is Available event at the Lentz Public Health Center will begin at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, September 11. Longtime radio veteran Kenny Smoov will host the event, which will feature inspirational messages, question-and-answer sessions, resources, and more. Speakers from several backgrounds will share their messages, all centered around eliminating the stigma of mental health issues.
The community is invited to attend the inaugural Hope is Available Community Day on Saturday, September 14, at the Boys and Girls Club at 916 16th Avenue North. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will feature special performances, educational resources, food, and vendors. The event is free to attend, and several different community organizations will be present to offer education and resources.
Services are available to those in need of mental health assistance. The Metro Public Health Department’s Behavioral Health and Wellness division offers mental health screenings by appointment at the Lentz Public Health Center. Appointments can be made by calling 615-340-2172. Tennessee Redline is available 24/7 to discuss alcohol, drug, problem gambling, and other addiction information and offers referrals to all citizens of Tennessee at their request. Those suffering a mental health crisis are encouraged to call 988 to speak to a mental health professional.
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Emergency Go-Kits for Tennesseans with Disabilities
The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) and the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) will distribute 300 Emergency Go-Kits to Tennesseans with disabilities in observance of National Preparedness Month, ensuring they have essential tools for disaster preparedness.