El Mirage Declares September 2025 National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Months

The El Mirage City Council convened on September 3, 2025, to address several important proclamations and community initiatives aimed at raising awareness for mental health and cancer prevention. The meeting began with Amber Wakeman introducing September as National Suicide Prevention Month, emphasizing the need for community support and education to combat rising suicide rates. Wakeman highlighted that over 49,000 individuals die by suicide each year in the U.S., stressing the importance of mental health advocacy and the role of local organizations in providing necessary resources.

Following this, the council proclaimed September 2025 as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. This initiative was prompted by a local ovarian cancer survivor, who underscored the disease's impact as the fifth leading cause of death among women. The proclamation aims to increase public awareness and education regarding ovarian cancer, which often goes undiagnosed until advanced stages due to vague symptoms.

The council also supported the "Speak Up, Stand Up, Save a Life" initiative, which focuses on preventing youth suicide, bullying, and substance abuse. The program, now in its ninth year, will host a conference on September 16, 2025, at Grand Canyon University, aiming to educate students on recognizing warning signs and seeking help. Gina Godbehar, co-founder of the initiative, and Joseph Ortiz from the Tolleson Union High School District spoke about the importance of community collaboration in addressing these critical issues.

The meeting concluded with a call to the public, allowing citizens to voice their concerns and suggestions to the council. The council members were encouraged to engage with the community and consider the feedback received during this segment.

Overall, the meeting highlighted El Mirage's commitment to mental health awareness and cancer prevention, fostering a supportive environment for residents to address these pressing issues.