2026 House Resolution 356

Whereas, September is recognized as Suicide Prevention Month, providing an opportunity to promote hope, strengthen connections, increase understanding, and ensure that people know where and how to reach out for support; and

Whereas, Suicide affects individuals, families, friends, workplaces, schools, and communities, reminding us of the importance of creating environments where people feel valued, supported, heard, and connected; and

Whereas, Suicide is preventable, and open and compassionate conversations, strong community connections, timely access to mental health and crisis care, and increased awareness of available resources can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people who may be struggling; and

Whereas, Every person experiencing emotional distress or thoughts of suicide deserves to be met with dignity, compassion, understanding, and support, without shame or judgment; and

Whereas, Help is available through family members, friends, trusted community members, health care and behavioral health professionals, and resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which provides free, confidential support 24 hours a day by call, text, or chat; and

Whereas, Many community partners and suicide prevention organizations, like the Jackson County Suicide Prevention Coalition, work in tandem to increase awareness, encourage connection to resources, provide suicide prevention education, and foster a community where people know they are not alone and that reaching out for help is encouraged; and

Whereas, Suicide Prevention Month is also an opportunity to honor and remember those whose lives have been lost to suicide, support families and loved ones who have experienced a suicide loss, listen to and learn from people with lived experience, and remind those who are struggling that hope, help, and healing are possible; and

Whereas, Each of us can play a role in suicide prevention by checking in on one another, listening without judgment, learning the signs that someone may need additional support, sharing trusted resources, and helping create a community where asking for help is welcomed and supported; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare September 2026 as Suicide Prevention Month in the state of Michigan. We recognize the dedicated efforts of mental health professionals, crisis responders, advocates, educators, community organizations, and volunteers who work tirelessly to support individuals and families affected by suicide and mental health challenges; and be it further

Resolved, That the members of this legislative body encourage all Michiganders to join in promoting hope, connection, compassion, and awareness; to support those who may be struggling; to increase understanding of available mental health resources and crisis services; and to help build communities where every person knows that their life has value, support is available, and hope is always worth holding on to.