Sept. 3, 2025 -- The Lackawanna County commissioners presented a proclamation Wednesday declaring the month of September 2025 to be “Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month” in Lackawanna County. The commissioners recognize September as a time to raise awareness of this urgently important crisis.

The goal is to shift public perception, spread hope and share vital information to people affected by suicide, ensuring that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help.

This year, the month will focus on resources and support for veterans. Data shows that on average approximately 17.6 veterans die by suicide every day and that suicide is the second leading cause of death for veterans under age 45. The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource available to all veterans, service members and their families that can be accessed any day, any time. Trained responders are ready to listen 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. A caller does not have to be enrolled in VA benefits or healthcare.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available:

Dial 988 and then press 1.
Send a text to 838255.
Start a confidential chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/chat.

Pictured, from left: Commissioner Bill Gaughan; Miki Drutchal, Lackawanna-Susquehanna Behavioral Health/Intellectual Disabilities/Early Intervention Program; and Commissioner Chris Chermak.