EASTERN IDAHO — In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month this September, Eastern Idaho Public Health and Community Suicide Prevention urge the community to take an active role in preventing suicide. Suicide is a serious public health issue in Idaho that brings tragic loss to families, friends, schools, and entire communities.

In 2023, Idaho had the fourth-highest suicide rate within the United States after increasing by 4.7% from the previous year. The Department of Health and Welfare lists suicide as the second leading cause of death for teens and young adults ages 15—24 in 2023.

"Suicide prevention is a shared responsibility that starts with us, in our own communities," said Timalee Geisler, suicide prevention program coordinator. "This month, we want to empower everyone to be a support for their friends, family and neighbors. By working together to reduce stigma and increase access to help, we can create stronger, more resilient communities."

Throughout the month of September, EIPH and CSP will host several events aimed at raising awareness and providing resources to the public.

— Sept. 19  — Community Suicide Prevention 7th Annual Conference: Connecting Communities to Save Lives. 7:30 a.m., Idaho State University, Idaho Falls Campus, Student Union Building. Tickets available on Eventbrite. For more information, contact Timalee Geisler at (208) 533-3149 or tgeiselr@eiph.idaho.gov

— Sept. 23 — St. Anthony Angel "Hope" Bench Dedication, 6 p.m., Clyde Keefer Memorial Park, St. Anthony.

— Sept. 25 — Rigby "Wings of Hope" Community Suicide Awareness and Memorial Walk. 6 p.m., Rigby South Park, Southeast Corner at the Angel "Hope" Bench, Rigby.

EIPH encourages community members to share messages of hope and support on social media using the hashtag #SuicidePreventionMonth.