Learn about suicide prevention at special luncheon

The Lake County Suicide Prevention Task Force will hold a special luncheon that is open to the public on Monday, Sept. 8, during Suicide Prevention Week, Sept. 8-14.

The event is designed to recognize the three years that the Task Force has been in existence and bring together members in the communities who have been affected by suicide or attempted suicide.

The event will include free food, presentations, and a session on how to identify and help potentially suicidal people.

It will take place from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the third floor board room at the Lake County Health Department/Community Health Center, 3010 Grand Ave., Waukegan.

Suicide is a serious public health problem that can have lasting, harmful effects not only on individuals attempting suicide, but also their families and communities. In the past five years, the annual number of suicides in Lake County has ranged from 61-70 per year.

Suicide occurs across ethnic, economic, social and age boundaries. On a national level, suicide was the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. in 2010, claiming 38,357 lives. Suicide among males is four times higher than among females, but females are more likely than males to have had suicidal thoughts.

The Lake County Suicide Prevention Task Force, of which the Lake County Health Department is a member, strives to deepen awareness, prevent suicide and save lives through education, linkage to resources, and treatment within the community.

Reservations for the lunch are required by Sept. 3. To make a reservation, call (847) 377-8297.