Fernley Mayor Neal McIntyre proclaimed September as Suicide Prevention Month during the Sept. 2 City Council meeting, sharing a deeply personal reason the issue matters to him.
After reading the proclamation, McIntyre told those gathered that his father died by suicide when McIntyre was 16 years old.
“I wish they had programs like this when I was a kid,” McIntyre said.
He said he was one of five brothers and recalled the impact his father’s death had on their family. McIntyre said the support now available to families who lose someone to suicide, as well as programs aimed at helping people considering suicide, can make an important difference.
“I would really hope that people would recognize the importance” of the people doing suicide prevention work, he said.
The proclamation recognizes suicide as a serious public health concern affecting people of every age and background and emphasizes that prevention can include recognizing warning signs, having compassionate conversations, reducing stigma and connecting people with help.
It also recognizes the work of schools, health care providers, first responders, behavioral health professionals, community and faith organizations, families and others who provide suicide prevention and support to people affected by suicide.
Misty Vaughan Allen, Nevada’s statewide suicide prevention coordinator, and Taylor Morgan, suicide prevention training and outreach facilitator for Northern Nevada, accepted the proclamation. Both work with the Nevada Office of Suicide Prevention.
September is recognized nationally as Suicide Prevention Month, with organizations across the country using the month to increase awareness of suicide prevention and available support.
The proclamation also calls attention to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Nevada residents can call or text 988, or use the 988 online chat, to reach trained crisis counselors 24 hours a day for emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, substance-use concerns or other behavioral health crises. Nevada officials describe 988 as a resource people can use before a situation reaches an emergency.
McIntyre encouraged Fernley residents to check on one another, listen without judgment and learn how to recognize and respond when someone may be struggling.
The City Council proclamation declares September 2026 Suicide Prevention Month in Fernley and encourages residents to promote “hope, compassion and connection” throughout the community.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 or visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline online for confidential, 24-hour support. If there is an immediate danger, call 911.
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