[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 85 (Friday, June 18, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1155]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 INTRODUCTION OF A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO RAISE AWARENESS OF SUICIDE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MARK UDALL

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 17, 2004

  Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce a 
concurrent resolution which recognizes the importance of suicide 
prevention and raising awareness of suicide within the nation.
  Suicide occurs in our nation at a rate of 30,000 suicides annually 
and kills youth six nine times more often than homicide. It is also the 
second fastest growing cause of death among college-age students. 
However, studies have shown that 95 percent of suicides are 
preventable. It is a silent epidemic that is preventable and awareness 
is the key to that prevention.
  There are several programs throughout the country which put in 
hundred of hours, most from volunteers, to provide support services to 
prevent suicide as well as support to the families and friends who have 
lost loved ones to suicide. I would like to highlight one of these 
organizations which is based in my district in Colorado, but works 
throughout the country and internationally. The Yellow Ribbon 
International Suicide Prevention Program' provides resources 
to teachers, parents, and those at the most risk of suicide. They go 
into schools to raise the level of discussion about suicide and ways to 
seek help. The more suicide is talked about, the more likely those 
thinking about suicide will take action and ask for assistance.
  Many who are considering suicide do not know where to turn for help, 
or even how to ask for help. Under the Yellow Ribbon International 
Suicide Prevention Program, Yellow Ribbon Ask 4 Help cards are made 
available to schools, teachers, counselors, and parents. These cards 
provide a simple way for individuals to ask for help, especially for 
those who cannot utter the words ``I need help.''
  It is also important to remember that suicide does not only affect 
our youth, but people throughout the phases of life. In fact, the 
largest number of suicide deaths occurs among men between the ages of 
35-44. The National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, within the 
Department of Health and Human Services recommends and encourages 
organizations to expand there service to focus on elementary ages as 
well as the elderly.
  My concurrent resolution recognizes the importance of suicide 
prevention and awareness, as well as reaffirms the commitment to the 
priorities expressed in H. Res. 212 and S. Res. 84 which were both 
passed in the 105th Congress. Lastly this bill states that the week of 
September 19, 2004 should be recognized as Yellow Ribbon Suicide 
Awareness and Prevention Week.
  I urge my colleagues in the House to support this legislation to help 
prevent suicide and to wear a yellow ribbon the week of September 19, 
2004 to raise awareness of this global epidemic.

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