The number of suicides in Tallahassee increased 68% from 2019 to 2020, according to preliminary figures from the Florida Department of Health s Bureau of Vital Statistics.
Local mental health experts say that while the pandemic may seem like the primary factor in the increasing local suicide total, it s too early to understand all of its far-reaching effects.
There were 19 suicides in 2019 and 32 in 2020, according to the state. This is the first time the number of annual suicides crossed 30 in nearly a decade. The increase also contradicts the trend of decline in statewide and national suicide statistics.
The number of U.S. suicides reduced by 6% in 2020, which is the largest decline in at least four decades, according to The Associated Press.
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Leon County Panel for Mental Health
The Leon County Public Library has invited a panel of mental health providers and representatives from non-profit organizations in the community to discuss mental health treatment, resources, and services in Leon County. Partners include Capital Regional Medical Center, Apalachee Center and 211 Big Bend.
Other topics will include how to support family members and how Covid-19 has impacted mental health and mental health services in the community.
To join the Zoom webinar: https://zoom.us/j/92259252443
Our panelists:
-Helena Reid is a hotline counselor at 2-1-1- Big Bend and is pursuing a degree in social work.