- BY MARK J. CRAWFORD
With shades of purple and teal in its seal, Bradford County Fire Rescue is drawing attention to Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Fire Chief Ben Carter said this is a time to “remind one another there is always hope, always help and always someone who cares.”
“Suicide affects families, friends, neighbors and communities everywhere. No one is immune, and too many lives are lost each year,” he said. “For first responders, the risk is even greater because of the weight we carry from seeing people on their worst days. But whether you wear a uniform or not, the message is the same: Strength is not found in silence. True strength is found in reaching out, leaning on others, and knowing it is okay to not be okay.
“To everyone in our community: you matter. Your life has value and tomorrow needs you. If you are struggling, please reach out, whether to a trusted friend, a loved one or a professional. Asking for help is a sign of courage, not weakness.
“As a community, let’s make a commitment to checking in on each other, offering a listening ear and breaking the stigma around mental health. Together, we can create a culture of hope, compassion and support.”
The Florida Department of Children and Families is also highlighting prevention by sharing information about mental health resources.
“Suicide Prevention Awareness Month presents an opportunity to emphasize our interconnected roles as a community in suicide prevention and our potential for impact. By building awareness, learning and sharing the risk factors and warning signs, promoting resiliency, decreasing stigmas, and sharing available resources, we send a powerful message that you are not alone and every life has value,” the agency stated in a press release.
DCF shared the following.
Mental well-being
Suicide prevention begins with connection. Staying engaged with community, social groups, family, friends and religious groups provides a foundation of support that can make all the difference. These connections foster resilience, create a sense of belonging and remind us that no one has to face their challenges alone. Each of us has the power to play a role in supporting mental well-being by reaching out, listening, offering hope and providing connection to resources. Your support can make a significant difference for someone who is thinking of suicide. We call on Floridians to “Be the One,” the one to check in, the one to extend a hand, the one to ask the question, and the one to help someone know their life matters.
Recognize the signs
Your awareness can make a difference. If you see warning signs such as changes in behavior, like withdrawing from loved ones, feelings of sadness or hopelessness, increased substance use, and impulsive behavior, start by expressing care and concern. Listen without judgment, give them space to share, and let them know they are not alone. Offer to connect them with professional help or trusted resources that can be the critical step toward safety and recovery.
You’re not alone
If you or a loved one need mental health support or are in a crisis, help is available. Call, text or chat the 988 Florida Lifeline 24-hours a day, seven days a week to be connected with a mental health
professional for free, confidential support which includes a specific peer support path for Veterans by calling 988 and pressing 1.
In Fiscal Year 2024-25, the 988 Florida Lifeline received 144,981 calls, of which 96 percent were
resolved without need for higher-level intervention, and all 1,374 of total calls made during an active suicide attempt in progress, resulted in everyone making it to the next level of care alive.
