The impact
Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the U.S. and the second leading cause of death for children ages 10-14, according to the county. For those ages 15-24, it is the third leading cause of death.
“[Suicide] has such a tremendous ripple effect, and its effects will go on,” said Kathy Pierce, the chair of Williamson County’s behavioral health task force. “But because of [the county’s] support in mental health, there are so many resources that we have in Williamson County.”
The behavioral health task force has a goal of working with mental health providers, nonprofits, first responders and the justice system to increase suicide awareness and lifesaving resources.
The county partners with Bluebonnet Trails Community Services, which offers a 24/7 crisis hotline at 1-800-841-1255 to connect residents with care and counseling options.
Individuals who call 911 in Williamson County and ask for mental health resources can also be directly connected with Bluebonnet Trails.
“Don't wait until there's no response [from loved ones] on the cellphone or your text messages. Trust that inner voice,” Precinct 4 Commissioner Russ Boles said.
Going forward
Pierce said the county is working on additional mental health projects, including starting a loss team that will help those impacted by suicide.
“We’ve made an effort to fill the gaps that the state has not filled for both [adults and children],” Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey said.
