Suicide Prevention Awareness Day

By Contributing Writer on September 12, 2025

September 12, 2025

Kim Fraser, Executive Director

Lake County ADAMHS Board

September 12, 2025

Lake County Suicide Prevention Coalition Highlights Ongoing Efforts for Suicide Prevention Awareness Day

Mentor, OH — On Suicide Prevention Awareness Day, the Lake County Suicide Prevention Coalition is reminding the community that help is available, hope is real, and lives can be saved.

This year, the Coalition will be speaking at the Wickliffe Senior Center as part of its ongoing outreach to older adults. Sandra Tenkku, a member of the Coalition and Community Outreach Specialist with Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board, is photographed here presenting to local seniors on the importance of recognizing the warning signs of suicide and connecting with available support.

In 2024, 38 Lake Countians died by suicide. Of those, 87% were male, 95% were white, and the average age was 46 years old. The majority of deaths (53%) occurred by gunshot. These statistics highlight the continued need for community education, outreach, and support for those at risk and their loved ones.

Over the past several years, the Coalition has been active in promoting suicide prevention and awareness across Lake County through a wide range of initiatives, including:
 Outreach and education to firearm retailers on crisis services
 Hosting suicide prevention and awareness trainings for local businesses, schools, libraries, and organizations
 Speaking at senior centers to address suicide risk among adults ages 60–80
 Providing outreach bags to isolated seniors
 Attending numerous community events to share information and resources
 Developing a Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors (LOSS) Team for Lake County
 Sponsoring the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) annual conference and bringing in the Do It For James Foundation
 Collaborating with local coalitions and groups to strengthen prevention efforts
 Participating in statewide conferences and wellness fairs

“Suicide prevention is truly a community effort,” said Sandra. “Every life matters, and we want people of all ages to know they are not alone. Resources and support are available right here in Lake County.”

If you or someone you know is struggling, please call the Crisis Hotline at 440-953-8255 or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Help is available 24/7.
About the Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board The Lake County ADAMHS Board plans, funds, monitors, and evaluates services available to residents who are living with mental illness and substance use disorders. For more information, please visit www.HelpThatWorks.us.

Photo Credit: All attached photos were taken by David Schick and may be used by media outlets for coverage of this story. High-resolution versions are available upon request.

Caption: David Schick and Sandra Tenkku, from the Lake ADAMHS Board, accept a proclamation from the Lake County Commissioners recognizing Suicide Prevention Day and the importance of behavioral health support in saving lives.