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HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
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WHEREAS, The observance of National Suicide Prevention Month |
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in September provides a fitting opportunity to heighten |
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understanding of this critical public health issue; and |
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WHEREAS, Each year in the United States, more than twice as |
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many people die from suicide as from homicide, and suicide has |
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become an issue of ever more pressing concern in recent decades; |
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from 1999 to 2016, rates of suicide rose in nearly every state, and |
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Texas experienced an 18.9 percent increase during that time period; |
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and |
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WHEREAS, Although suicide is difficult to predict, it is |
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often preceded by warning signs, and sudden changes in mood and |
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behavior can indicate that an individual may need help; the concern |
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expressed by friends, parents, and other family members can make a |
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tremendous difference to someone who is struggling with suicidal |
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thoughts; and |
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WHEREAS, Evidence shows that suicides can be reduced by |
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teaching coping and problem-solving skills; many individuals can |
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also find relief from depression and other emotional pressures |
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through therapy, and it is vital that the public be made aware of |
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available treatment options, including psychological counseling; |
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and |
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WHEREAS, Education initiatives can be especially helpful for |
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young people; suicide is the second leading cause of death among |
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primary and secondary students ages 10 and older, and a concerted |
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outreach effort in public schools can be an effective means of |
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engaging students, their families, and the wider community; and |
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WHEREAS, Suicide exacts a heavy toll on our state, leaving |
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far too many people to cope with the sudden loss of someone they |
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hold dear, and a greater awareness of suicide warning signs and |
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intervention strategies can play an important part in reducing the |
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number of these senseless tragedies; now, therefore, be it |
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RESOLVED, That the 86th Legislature of the State of Texas |
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hereby designate September as Suicide Prevention Month; and, be it |
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further |
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RESOLVED, That in accordance with the provisions of Section |
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391.004(d), Government Code, this designation remain in effect |
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until the 10th anniversary of the date this resolution is finally |
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passed by the legislature. |
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* * * * * |