A set of new signs installed on the bridge carrying traffic over the Occoquan River aim to deliver a powerful message: you’re better off alive than dead.
Valentine’s Day was very special for some mental health advocates in Prince William this year. After months of hard work, suicide prevention signs were installed on the Occoquan Bridge on Route 123.
This has been a community effort. Andrea Hess, from Prince William Community Services (PWCS), expressed concern about so many people having made suicide attempts from that location. Immediately alarmed, Cynthia Dudley from Trillium Center reached out to former Prince William County Supervisor Ruth Anderson. Jacob Mosser from Anderson’s office took the lead with the Virginia Department of Transportation and the Prince William Department of Transportation. Dudley brought Hess and other community leaders, Heather Martinsen (PWCS) and Vicki Graham from Action in Community Through Service of Prince William, Inc. (ACTS) to the table.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline “recognizes that ‘promoting access to lifesaving means’ — such as signage or other public education media near bridges that promotes awareness of hotlines (such as 273-TALK) or other suicide prevention services — is a supplement to bridge barriers.”
Kenny Allen Boddye, newly elected Occoquan Supervisor, stated in a press release, “I applaud the partnership between our county, advocates, neighboring Fairfax county, and other stakeholders who came together to ensure these signs were installed on the bridge. I look forward to working with our community to ensure we are doing everything we can to prevent suicide.”
Dudley says, “I am one grateful woman. Now to work with other BOCS to install more signs around the county where needed. Losing ONE person to suicide is not ok. Not ok one bit.”
According to the CDC, Suicide is a leading cause of death in the US. Suicide rates increased in nearly every state from 1999 through 2016. Mental health conditions are often seen as the cause of suicide, but suicide is rarely caused by any single factor.
In fact, many people who die by suicide are not known to have a diagnosed mental health condition at the time of death. Other problems often contribute to suicide, such as those related to relationships, substance use, physical health, and job, money, legal, or housing stress.
Making sure government, public health, healthcare, employers, education, the media and community organizations are working together is important for preventing suicide, states the CDC. Public health departments can bring together these partners to focus on comprehensive state and community efforts with the greatest likelihood of preventing suicide.
If you need help for yourself or someone else, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Talk: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) Chat: suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Recent Stories
The Town of Dumfries is considering relocating its Farmers Market to a more high-traffic area in an effort to boost accessibility and attract more vendors.
Shoppers at Potomac Mills mall in Woodbridge will find a fresh new look at the food court, now rebranded as the Dining Pavilion following the completion of an extensive remodel.
The Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) will host the 2025 Fredericksburg Regional Spelling Bee on Saturday, March 1, at 10 a.m. at James Monroe High School, 2300 Washington Avenue in Fredericksburg.
On February 24 at 10:56 p.m., officers responded to a shots-fired call at a residence in Dumfries.
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
