County Highlights Mental Health Services in Wake of Seau Death

In the wake of , apparently the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at his beachfront North County home Wednesday, San Diego County officials are reminding citizens of mental health services available to residents.

The County of San Diego sent this email Thursday morning:

One person dies by suicide every day in San Diego County. However, suicides can be prevented.

County mental health experts are available to talk about to the warning signs and risk factors of suicide, what to do when a suicidal person comes to you for help and the mental health resources available, including the County’s Access and Crisis Line at (888) 724-7240.

More information about suicide is available at the County News Center.

According to figures recently released by the county, there were eight suicides in La Mesa in 2011, with ages ranging from 29 to 97. There were nine suicides in Spring Valley in 2011, with ages ranging from 22 to 66.

The attached document also contains case numbers. Information on any of these deaths, including name of victim, is available from the Medical Examiner’s Office.

“Suicide can be prevented,” said Nick Macchione, director of the county Health and Human Services Agency. “We all should learn the warning signs of suicide and where to get help so we can be ready to provide assistance if needed.

“Suicide affects not only the individual. The devastating impact reaches far beyond those who take their own lives.”