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Rep. Anielski Spreads Awareness of World Suicide Prevention Day - September 10th

Highlights Rascal Flatts PSA, legislative, community prevention efforts
August 30, 2018
Republican Newsroom

Press Release Poster

COLUMBUS – State Representative Marlene Anielski (R-Walton Hills) is raising awareness for the approaching World Suicide Prevention Day on Monday, September 10, 2018. As the 15th leading cause of death globally, over 800,000 people die by suicide annually, equating to about one person every 40 seconds.

“The goal behind all of our suicide prevention efforts is to make sure people know there is help available for anyone who is struggling,” said Rep. Anielski. “Spreading knowledge of all the prevention options and resources that are out there is the first step toward overcoming the silent epidemic.”

Sponsored by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), World Suicide Prevention Day focuses public attention on the needs of people at risk of suicide, suicide attempt survivors, and people bereaved by suicide. One way you can show your support for suicide prevention is to light a candle near a window at 8:00 p.m. on September 10, to demonstrate your support for such efforts. In Ohio, the Saturday before Thanksgiving is designated as “Ohio Survivors of Suicide Loss Day,” which comes as a result from Rep. Anielski’s sponsored House Bill 440 passed in early 2017.

As a part of Rep. Anielski’s efforts while working on House Bill 440, and with the goal of expanding public awareness and outreach for suicide prevention, award-winning country music band Rascal Flatts recorded a public service announcement on the topic. It can be seen here: http://www.ohiochannel.org/video/rascal-flatts-suicide-awareness

According to IASP, several other ways you can raise awareness about the issue include educating yourself and others about the causes of suicide and warning signs for suicide, showing compassion for those who are in distress in your community, and questioning the stigma associated with suicide, suicidal behavior and mental health issues. Suicide prevention takes work, but the benefits are infinite and can have a massive impact.