Frontier Health recognizes suicide prevention month

JOHNSON CITY — Frontier Health is encouraging communities to take part in Suicide Prevention Awareness and National Recovery month this September. In a Thursday press release, Frontier Health announced it was joining communities across the nation to recognize the mental health awareness initiatives that come with the month of September. Frontier Health, a nonprofit health care provider in the region, is encouraging people to check in with friends and loved ones, as well as learn how to foster a community where behavioral health is "treated with the same importance" as physical health. "Hope begins with knowing that help is available," said Sherri Feathers, Senior Vice President of Tennessee Specialty Services at Frontier Health, in the press release. "Suicide prevention and recovery both depend on people feeling safe enough to reach out, ask for support, and connect with care. We want our community to know that no matter how difficult things may seem, Frontier Health has resources, treatment options, and people who care. Recovery is possible, and no one has to face a crisis alone." According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 48,824 people died by suicide in 2024. An estimated 14.3 million adults seriously considered suicide, 4.6 million made a suicide plan, and 2.2 million attempted suicide. "Suicide is preventable," the release states. "Connection to family and community, access to health care and treatment, and support during difficult periods can serve as important protective factors. Recognizing changes in behavior, taking expressions of hopelessness or suicide seriously, and reaching out to someone who may be struggling can make a difference." Frontier Health's announcement states the organization believes suicide prevention and recovery are "closely connected," requiring communities where people feel safe asking for help and are not judged. Frontier Health has a 24/7 crisis hotline. The national Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is also available 24/7 at 988. Frontier Health's Turning Point has emergency behavioral health services available in person 24/7 at its Johnson City facility. Individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis can walk in at any time to speak with trained professionals and receive support.