The Williamson County Commissioners Court approved a proclamation recognizing the month of September as Suicide Prevention Month in Williamson County. The Court encourages everyone to save the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK(8255) on their phones to be ready to help if co-workers, friends or family are in need. 

The Center for Disease Control reported that the national average for suicide was 14.0 per 100,000 and the rate for the State of Texas was 13.4.  The average for Williamson County during the same period was 10.4.  

Williamson County community leaders recognize that every life is precious and valuable. Dedicated groups continue to strive for improvements to the behavioral health system and to help keep Williamson County ranked as one of the healthiest counties in the State of Texas. Williamson County currently is third out of 254 counties.  

Alan's Hope, the Child and Youth Behavioral Health Committee, the Williamson County Behavioral Health Task Force, and Williamson County and Cities Health District with their Healthy Williamson County initiative are continuing their efforts to improve the behavioral health system in the county. These groups work together to create a behavioral health system that works effectively, without duplication of valuable resources.  

The efforts of these groups help to reduce the stigma of seeking help. Just as there is no hesitation in seeking help for a heart attack, diabetes or a broken bone, there should not be stigma in receiving help for behavioral health needs.