At a recent Colorado Springs City Council meeting, Councilmember David Leinweber and Thomas Thompson, advisor to Mayor Yemi Mobolade, presented a proclamation designating September 2025 as Suicide Prevention Month in the city.
The proclamation highlights the city’s ongoing commitment to mental health support, community engagement, and suicide prevention efforts. It states: “…the Mayor and City Council of Colorado Springs do hereby proclaim September 2025 as Suicide Prevention Month in our city, and call upon all residents to promote mental wellness, support those in need, and work together to save lives and strengthen our community…”
National Suicide Prevention Month is seen as an opportunity for public awareness, honoring those impacted by suicide, and encouraging residents to participate through training programs, safe firearm storage practices, connecting with neighbors, or sharing information about resources like the 988 hotline.
El Paso County recorded 155 deaths by suicide in 2024. This marks an 18% reduction from the previous year’s total of 189 deaths. The proclamation notes this progress but stresses that further action is necessary.
Colorado Springs collaborates with the Suicide Prevention Collaborative of El Paso County. This coalition was formed five years ago and now includes local health systems, nonprofits, schools, military representatives, faith organizations, businesses, and government agencies working collectively on prevention initiatives.
Additional local efforts include Pikes Peak Rising projects such as Pikes Peak Rising 360 and the Business Collective; HOPE workplace certification; GRIT resiliency training; widespread suicide prevention trainings; and events like 1,000 Neighborhood Gatherings. These activities are designed to foster connections among residents while reducing stigma around mental health issues and improving access to services like the Colorado Mental Health Line at 988.
The full text of the proclamation is available online.
