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Horry County proclaims September Suicide Prevention Awareness Month; Behavioral Services director cites roughly 80 deaths last year
Summary
The county council adopted a proclamation naming September Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Michelle Smith, director of the newly formed Behavioral Services department, said the county saw 'approximately 80' suicides last year and called for expanded, evidence-based prevention and countywide access to care.
Horry County Council unanimously approved Resolution R-128-2025 proclaiming September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Michelle Smith, introduced as director of the county’s Behavioral Services Department, said the department — established in April and now growing — is focused on mental health, opioid addiction and homelessness. Smith quoted Dr. John Malzberger and said, “There is no suffering greater than that which drives people to suicide,” adding that “last year approximately 80 of our community members felt that abandonment of hope so deeply.” Smith urged systemic change to increase access to evidence-based prevention programming and integrative care.
Council members praised the department’s early work and encouraged continued development of prevention and treatment services. The resolution passed with the affirmative votes recorded on the council floor.
What’s next: Smith and the Behavioral Services team will continue implementing programs and coordinating with council; the proclamation formally recognizes the month and signals the county’s intent to prioritize prevention efforts.
Quote: “There is no suffering greater than that which drives people to suicide,” Michelle Smith said, summarizing the department’s priorities and the need for stigma reduction.
The council’s formal action was a proclamation; no enforcement measures or additional funding were specified in the meeting record.
