In the last 45 days, there have been incidents on Caltrain in the city, most of them corresponding to people who have taken their lives in front of a train. Suicide prevention is something we should all take part in to protect our loved ones, which is why the Redwood City Council, in collaboration with the San Mateo County Mental Health Commission, recognized September as Suicide Month. Suicide Prevention.
In July 2022, the StarVista Crisis Line, had a 10 percent increase in calls, compared to 2021, probably due to the inauguration of number 988 on July 16. In 2020, 12,297 calls were received from the crisis line in San Mateo County.
The mayor of the city, Jeff Gee, who made the proclamation on Monday, September 11, noted that the mental health initiative includes various activities in which the entire community can participate.
Suicide Prevention Month includes free in-person and virtual events, advocacy days, and a communications campaign called “Share hope together.
Gee called on all people in the city to find their role in suicide prevention and participate in related events.
At the time, Redwood City Police Chief Kristina Bell, who is also a member of the San Mateo County Mental Health Commission, highlighted the need for awareness and compassion, as well as proactive efforts to prevent this type of incidents.
He also encouraged everyone to promote this year's theme, and reminded that one of the ways to share hope is to wear purple and teal, the national colors of Suicide Prevention Month.
Other ways to share hope together, she said, is by attending free events, in-person or virtual, and sharing resources.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, contact the 24/7 CRISIS hotlines at 650-579-0350 or 988. You can also text “Bay” at 741-741 or 988. You can also visit the site SanMateoCrisis.org
Remember, in case of emergency, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room.
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