(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The recently released 2024 coroner’s report shows the yearly suicide rate in El Paso County is down 17.9%. It’s a significant decrease after having the most suicides in our state in 2023.
“Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness,” said Colonel (Ret.) Robert “Bob” McLaughlin, Executive Director of the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center.
This week, local experts joined together to break down the statistics and discuss how to continue to lower the rates of suicide.
“Nearly eight in 10 of those deaths were men, and nearly one in four had a history of military service. Firearms are involved in 60% of deaths and slightly down from 65% in 2023, but still well above state and national averages,” said David Galvan, with the Steering Committee for the Suicide Prevention Collaborative of El Paso County.
The experts said that prevention takes a village and includes employers, the military, nonprofits, and more. They hope to provide comprehensive support, using tools like safe storage education.
“I used to have a lot of unsecured firearms in my home; I have zero now,” said Lee Lehmkuhl, Commissioner for Active US Military and Veterans with the Colorado Suicide Prevention Commission.
To prevent suicide locally, leaders have been focusing on education, support for those affected by suicide loss, and creating cultures of connection in places like work or school.
“Employers have leaned in through the first Workplace Mental Health Summit, the HOPE Certification program, and the Pikes Peak Rising Business Collective, making workplace mental health, a culture of connection and shared priority,” said Galvan.
The average age of someone who died by suicide in El Paso County last year was 45 years old.
“65 and up are the second-highest risk group,” said Joanne Dreher, the Silver Key Executive Assistant. “We encourage them to attend groups. We offer groups.”
Although our region has made strides, experts say they’re very concerned about losing progress, following what they call dramatic cuts to public health funding at the federal level.
“Contact your local, state, and federal representatives to support strong public health funding that keeps our momentum going,” said Galvan.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, help is available. Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline; this service provides 24/7 confidential support for anyone in crisis or emotional distress.
