Both of this week’s Weekly Radio Addresses from Wisconsin’s Capitol are about Suicide Prevention Month. These addresses are available for Wisconsin broadcasters to use as they see fit. Here are the summaries from WisPolitics:
— In this week’s , Sen. Jesse James discusses Suicide Prevention Month, noting 924 Wisconsinites committed suicide in 2022.
“We have worked for years trying to destigmatize the need for some extra help and support and establishing the community resources needed to accommodate these needs, but there is still work to be done,” the Altoona Republican says.
He says the GOP-controlled Legislature has “made great strides” to address the mental health crisis.
“We invested in trying to improve outcomes by increasing access to mental health care for our farmers, establishing new programs and facilities for those experiencing a mental health crisis, expanding school-based mental health services and more,” James says.
— Gov. Tony Evers in this week’s also highlights Suicide Prevention Month.
The Dem governor touts the work to bolster mental health services he has overseen as governor, but emphasizes “we can and should do more.” He says he remains committed to the “work we must do to expand access to services, end the stigma, raise awareness, and prevent suicides across our state.”
Suicide is a top 10 leading cause of death in Wisconsin, and Evers reminds citizens 24/7 support is available through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. He adds that farmers and their families can also call the Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection’s 24/7 Farmer Wellness Helpline at 1-888-901-2558. “Together, we can prevent suicides, save lives and build a healthier, more resilient state for everybody,” Evers says.
Find the archive of weekly addresses, organized by the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association, by going to: http://www.wi-broadcasters.org/for-the-public/weekly-addresses-archive/
