Health
View of children from behind walking to school with backpacks

Make Back-to-School Mental Health a Priority

| 12:35 PM

Reading Time: 2 minutes

The back-to-school season brings a familiar mix of excitement—and stress. Academic pressure, changing friendships and the push to adapt can be especially challenging for students who already experience anxiety or other mental health concerns.  There are simple ways to support your child at home to help make their school year successful.

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Suicide Report Shows Small Increase in Suicide Deaths Overall, but Youth High Risk

| 4:10 PM

Reading Time: 2 minutes

The number of confirmed suicide deaths in San Diego County in 2023 was 363, a 1 percent increase from the 359 deaths the previous year, and a 6 percent increase since 2021. The newest data on suicide in our region was shared at a press conference today by County leaders in Behavioral Health and the Suicide Prevention Council.

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purple flags in field with booths in the foreground

Purple Flags Mark International Overdose Awareness Day Observance

| 4:02 PM

Reading Time: 2 minutes

“Together, we can,” was the theme for the 23rd International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) and press conference at the County Administration Center. The annual event features a garden of purple flags, each one representing an overdose death in San Diego County. This year featured 1,203 purple flags, 97 fewer flags than last year.

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photo of child leans again a tree trunk

Grieving for Jamie

| 10:36 AM

Reading Time: < 1 minute

Grief can have a tremendous impact on a person’s mental health and lead to depression, anxiety, sleep issues and isolation. County employee Elene Bratton lost her son Jamie more than 20 years ago. Her painful journey that followed taught her the importance of support systems and to honor her grief.

Health

Embracing Life After Attempted Suicide

| 11:00 AM

Reading Time: < 1 minute

Lisa Garcia is a survivor. She attempted suicide twice. Today, she is thankful for every day, every milestone and every celebration. This is her story.