In an effort to share resources, reduce stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health and suicide prevention, the month of September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. The 2026 general theme is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.”
Suicide is one of the most urgent mental health issues of our time and with conversations and events, awareness is raised, hope is spread and meaningful actions can take place to help those that are struggling and their families to receive the support and resources they need.
Local organizations and individuals that make up the Trousdale County Health Council set up the Trousdale County Remembrance Wall Sept. 1. The temporary display will remain in place for the month of September and is located on the fencing that surrounds the historic downtown courthouse, 200 E. Main Street.
The display has been set up annually in September for the past six years and commemorates Suicide Awareness Month and honors those lost to suicide.
Ribbons and a permanent marker are placed in a plastic container on the fence. Residents are encouraged to stop by and write the name of someone they have lost to suicide on the ribbon and tie it to the fence.
The annual Trousdale Remembers gathering and candlelight vigil is scheduled for Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. at the courthouse.
Rural counties in Tennessee often experience higher suicide and self-harm vulnerability statistics over urban areas. Based on data from 2016–2019, Trousdale County was once ranked number one in the entire State of Tennessee for the rate of residents requiring emergency room visits due to self-harm.
Events like the Trousdale Remembers help to raise awareness about local resources available to the community and provides comfort to grieving individuals and families. The public is encouraged to attend.
If you or someone you know is struggling with overwhelming loss, hopelessness or thoughts of self-harm, support is available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7 or chat online at 988lifeline.org.
