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In recognition of Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, marked during September, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Miami-Dade County are launching a powerful new suicide awareness and prevention campaign to raise awareness and connect residents with lifesaving resources.
“Miami-Dade is committed to breaking the silence around mental health and letting people know that they are not alone,” Mayor Levine Cava said. “I have long been a supporter of mental health initiatives, signing the pledge to make Miami-Dade a ‘Stigma-Free’ community and working with NAMI to expand awareness and access to care. This campaign reinforces a critical message: help is available, and when you need it, someone is always ready to listen at 988.”
The campaign, which began on Sept. 1, brings together a wide range of community partners including the Miami Heat, Miami Marlins, Miami Dolphins, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, local influencers, and athletes. Together, they aim to reach more than 20 million people across South Florida with a message of hope and help.
“By partnering with NAMI in this effort, the mayor and county government as well as local sports teams and entertainment venues have made it clear that they care about our community and support the mental health of all of our residents,” said Susan Holtzman, president and CEO of NAMI Miami-Dade.
Suicide rates continue to climb across the nation, especially among young people of color and older adults. While the national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was launched three years ago, many residents in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties remain unaware that the resource exists, or how it can help during a mental health crisis.
The campaign aims to build awareness of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Helpline and will be visible throughout Miami-Dade County, including digital displays at Miami International Airport and PortMiami, on Metrorail and Metrobus, in government buildings, and at major sports and entertainment venues such as loanDepot Park and Hard Rock Stadium.
According to the CDC, nearly one in five Americans experience a mental illness each year.
In 2021, an estimated 12.3 million adults seriously considered suicide, 3.5 million made a plan, and 1.7 million attempted suicide. The psychological and financial challenges of recent years have only deepened the need for prevention, outreach, and support.
NAMI Miami-Dade provides free, evidence-informed programs to individuals and families affected by mental illness, complementing clinical and therapeutic care.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, dial 988 to connect immediately with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
For information regarding the campaign contact Jodie Blum at 415-412-5469 or by email jodie@theco-llective.com.
For more information on NAMI Miami-Dade’s programs and resources, visit https://namimiami.org/.
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