CLEARFIELD—With the end of September came the end of Suicide Prevention Month, but that doesn’t make the subject any less important throughout the rest of the year. In fact, with winter coming on, the days getting shorter, and the risk of seasonal depression heightening, there could be no better time to address this topic.

Teresa Smith and Jessica Gehring both work with suicide prevention year-round in the Davis County Health Department, and gave some important data, as well as helpful tips to weather the months and years ahead, especially for those at risk of dying by suicide. Funded through legislation, the program brings a lot of important resources to Davis County.

Working with people all over Davis County, Smith, and Gehring have worked tirelessly to provide not only intervention and prevention but also postvention – helping those that have been affected by suicide, which, according to some studies, can be up to 135 people in the circle around the person who passed away.

Like other experts in the field, Smith and Gehring pointed out that in Davis County, as in the rest of the world, men are at higher risk for dying by suicide, particularly in the 18-24 age range. They also mentioned that this group is one of the hardest to reach, as they’re often working while Smith, Gehring, and their team are out teaching, and giving resources. 

The embodiment of their cause, however, as Smith put it is “There is hope, and there is healing. Recovery is possible.” Both Smith and Gehring also gave some practical tips on how to lessen the chance of someone endangering themselves, particularly in Davis County.

The leading cause of death by suicide in the county is firearm usage, they said, saying that, if you or someone you know may be at risk, find a way to put some distance between them and any firearms that may be in their home. They also mentioned that many places around the county offer gunlocks which can provide yet another barrier between an at-risk person and a firearm. 

There are also abundant resources like the 988 number which started just last year as a counseling line for those that might be having suicidal thoughts. The number isn’t just for those in need of counseling, however – friends and loved ones can also call this number, and receive expert advice on how to help someone with those kinds of thoughts.

There are also things like Live On, and SafeUT – a crisis chat and tip line which, like 988, can provide people with real-time crisis intervention, all confidentially, and all right from your smartphone. As the SafeUT website says, resources like these can, “help you move from a place of crisis or distress to a calmer, safer place. We then help you create a plan to stay safe and get connected with resources that can help you solve the problems you’re facing.”

With all of these programs, Gehring emphasized just how important it is to them to, “make sure people have access to mental health resources in the community,” going on to explain that they are always working on improving and updating their available resources, including Bi-annual mental health screenings. 

These screenings are fantastic ways to help detect signs and symptoms early, just as in physical health, and help connect those who may be struggling with mental health professionals, “we want to work together to make a greater impact.” As with physical health issues, with mental and emotional health, the more awareness, the more that can be done.

As a final admonition, Gehring and Smith remind Davis County residents to “be aware of those around you,” and “don’t be afraid to ask.” It’s these simple, consistent actions that can make the difference, and save lives.