Annual youth suicide prevention community discussion offered

The Oakland County Youth Suicide Prevention Task Force will host “Preventing Suicide through Means Restriction” on Wednesday, May 24, from 8:30 a.m. to noon, Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson announced recently. The event will be held at the Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Rd. Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard is the keynote speaker and will discuss strategies including safe storage of firearms and medications. Community members and professionals interested in suicide prevention are encouraged to attend.

“Suicide is the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 10–24 both nationally and in Oakland County,” said Leigh-Anne Stafford, health officer for Oakland County Health Division. “This year’s focus on means restriction, or limiting access to lethal means of suicide, is an important part of our overall approach to suicide prevention.”

The discussion will also include a presentation by OK2SAY, a program designed to empower Michigan students, parents, school personnel, community mental health service programs, and law enforcement to respond to student safety threats. Additionally, a panel comprised of experts from law enforcement, clinical mental health, and schools will further discuss means restriction. Registration is open and encouraged at www.oakgov.com/health.

“An event is hosted every year to ensure we work together as a community to find solutions to prevent youth suicide in Oakland County,” said Sheriff Michael Bouchard. “This year, we are encouraging residents to lock up firearms, prescription drugs, and other lethal means to make their home suicide-safe.” 

For up-to-date public health information, visit www.oakgov.com/health or find Public Health Oakland on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest @publichealthOC.

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