STATE NEWS — Did you know we lose three to four Tennesseans to suicide each day.

In 2019 – the latest year for which state-specific figures are available – there were 1,220 recorded suicide deaths in Tennessee. Though health officials are unsure of the impact that COVID-19 has had on our state’s suicide rate, we do know that mental health concerns have been and continue to be at the forefront of nationwide conversations surrounding the pandemic into 2021.

The Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network will hold several events across the state in observance of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month this September. Metro Moore County will also recognize

TSPN draws awareness to this public health issue throughout the year, and these efforts culminate during a statewide event each September. This year’s event is slated for September 8 and 9 during National Suicide Prevention Awareness Week at the Embassy Suites in Murfreesboro. The two-day event will focus on the resilience we have seen from 2020 to 2021 and will recognize the efforts of TSPN volunteers and organizational partners, as well as state department collaborators, in suicide prevention.

In addition to a statewide event, TSPN is also hosting several regional events throughout the state, both virtually and in person. A calendar of events, event details and more can be found online at tspn.org.
If you or a loved one are thinking about suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text TN to 741741. •

{The Lynchburg Times is the only independently owned and operated newspaper in Lynchburg. We cover Metro Moore County government, Jack Daniel’s Distillery, Nearest Green Distillery, Tims Ford State Park, Motlow State Community College, Moore County High School, Moore County Middle School, Lynchburg Elementary, Raider Sports, plus regional and state news.}