MAYVILLE – In an effort to help connect people who may be considering harming themselves, the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County has launched a new website.
The website, preventsuicidechq.com, has prevention training, local awareness events, safe messaging tools, a PSA, and more to help you or those you’re in contact with who may be struggling.
“As County Executive, I am very proud of the work that the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County has done since its inception in 2011,”said PJ Wendel, Chautauqua County Executive. “Anyone can play a critical role in suicide prevention by having the courage to ask hard questions and by knowing how to help someone stay safe with resources available right here in Chautauqua County. This website connects us with the information that we need as a community to reinforce our supportive efforts.”
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control, suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 34, the fourth leading cause of death among people ages 34 to 54 and the fifth leading cause of death among people ages 45 to 54.
“There is help locally for those with thoughts of suicide, for loss survivors and for community members looking to educate themselves on the warning signs and what to do if someone you care about is struggling or in crisis,” explained Carri Raynor, Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County Coordinator/Family Lead of Chautauqua Tapestry.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis, contact the Nation Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) or text “HOME” to the Crisis Text line 741-741. Both options are free and confidential, and you will be connected to a skilled, trained counselor near you. This service is 24/7. For Mobile Crisis Services in Chautauqua County, call 1-800-724-0461 Monday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 8 a.m., and 24 hours a day on weekends and holidays.
“There is no reason for someone to struggle in silence. We want to get that message out there, that there is HOPE (Hold On Pain Ends). Reach out a hand and get the help you need. There are so many people in our lives who care about us and are there to help,” said Raynor.
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