September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and the Village of Park Forest's Recreation, Parks, and Community Health Department wants to remind residents that help and support are available.

The department is sharing information about local and national services that provide immediate crisis intervention, grief counseling, support groups, and prevention education.

“We want our community to know that no one has to face these struggles alone,” said Recreation Manager Adina McCollough. “Resources are available around the clock for anyone in crisis, as well as ongoing support for families and individuals affected by suicide.”

Immediate help is available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which offers free and confidential support 24 hours a day via call, text, or online chat. The Will County Health Department's Behavioral Health Services also provide counseling, treatment, and referral support.

Several organizations offer grief and peer support, including LOSS (Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide), Catholic Charities, NAMI Illinois affiliates in Cook and Will Counties, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and Willow House, which specializes in helping children, families, and schools cope with loss.

Educational resources and prevention efforts are available through the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Will County First Responder Suicide Prevention Program, which provides specialized training and peer support for first responders and their families.

McCollough emphasized the importance of raising awareness about available support. “Suicide prevention is a community effort,” she said. “By spreading awareness and sharing resources, we can help save lives and support those who are grieving.”

For more information about suicide prevention resources, residents can visit: https://afsp.org/chapter/illinois