Effingham County holds event in honor of Suicide Prevention Day

EFFINGHAM COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - The Effingham County Board of Commissioners held an event outside of the Administration building honoring Suicide Prevention Day.

September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day.

The event consisted of board members sharing personal stories of their connection to suicide prevention

Forest Floyd the commissioner for district 1 shared a very personal and impactful story of how his son took his own life.

“Three days after Christmas 2018 he took his own life,” said Floyd. “Our lives have been changed ever since. Suicide just doesn’t affect a few, its far reaching and it’s an ongoing grief for those affected.”

Another key speaker at the event was Jay Spinks, who shared the disheartening numbers of those affected in Effingham County.

“Percentage change for the last five years, from 2020 to 2025, we have seen a 45.8% increase in mental health crisis calls,” said Spinks. “People calling for help.”

The board members’ speeches touched close to home for many, everyone relaying the same overall message to those in need.

“If someone reaches out, give them a minute of your time and listen,” said Floyd. “You just never know what someone’s dealing with, and a few minutes of kindness may change their life.”

The ceremony closed by a Teal and Purple balloon release, honoring those who the community has lost.

Purple representing the fight against suicide, and teal representing mental health awareness.

For help and resources call 988 to reach Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.