Recognizes the month of September as suicide prevention awareness month in La. and urges greater awareness of the problem of suicide among military veterans
By designating September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, HCR152 seeks to foster a broader understanding of the causes and effects of suicide, with particular attention given to the unique struggles faced by military personnel and veterans. The resolution encourages initiatives that promote the availability of mental health services and suicide prevention programs, aiming to change societal perceptions about suicide and improve support for those in need. This legislative action is intended to facilitate discussions around mental health and promote educational efforts on the warning signs of suicide.
House Concurrent Resolution 152 (HCR152) aims to designate the month of September as 'Suicide Prevention Awareness Month' in Louisiana. The resolution's primary focus is to raise public awareness regarding the issue of suicide, particularly among military service members and veterans. It highlights the alarming statistics surrounding suicide in the state, emphasizing that Louisiana ranked fourteenth in the nation in reported suicide-related deaths in 2015. The resolution argues for the importance of mental health support and advocates for reducing the stigma surrounding suicide.
The sentiment surrounding HCR152 is largely positive, with support for raising awareness and addressing the stigma associated with mental health issues being a common theme. Legislators and advocates have expressed a commitment to improving resources for suicide prevention and helping those affected by such tragedies. The resolution resonates with the community as there is a pressing need for open dialogue about mental wellness, particularly given the high rates of suicide among veterans.
While HCR152 generally enjoys widespread support, some may contend that mere awareness is not enough to address the complexities of mental health and suicide prevention. There may be concerns regarding the adequacy of resources and programs that follow the resolution's recognition of the month, as effective implementation is crucial to creating genuine change. Additionally, some critics may argue that the focus on suicide among military personnel should be part of a larger conversation addressing overall mental health needs for all demographics.