By Seraphina Eberhardt, Program Manager, Institute for Public Strategies East County

September 2024 –(San Diego’s East County) -- September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Suicide is not just a national or state concern. It’s something that touches our neighborhoods, our schools, our families, and our friends. Mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent, especially after the social and emotional strain of the past few years, according to a study by the American Psychology Association. We can unite as a community to support one another and raise awareness about the resources available to help those in crisis.

East County is not immune to the devastating impact of suicide. The pressures of everyday life, financial stress, family issues, academic pressures, and the lingering effects of the pandemic can all contribute to a mental health crisis. For some, the feelings of hopelessness and despair can become overwhelming, leading to thoughts of suicide. According to data released by the county, the east region had higher age-adjusted death rates due to suicide than the county overall in 2018, 2020, and 2021. Data for 2019 and 2022 was not available. In addition, the east region had higher age-adjusted hospitalization and Emergency Department discharge rates due to suicide attempts/ideation/intentional self-harm than the county overall every year from 2018-2022.