Suicide Prevention

The completed suicide this week of Actor/Comedian Robin Williams has stirred the emotions of many who are shaken by the idea that a person so personified with laughter could be so depressed that he would take his own life. Additionally, the death of a person in recovery from both mental illness and chemical dependency is concerning to those who have also walked that path and are working hard at their own recovery. It is at times like these that we all need to remember that help is available, and that in Putnam County there are many resources available to everyone that provide help and hope.

Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell and Commissioner of Mental Health, Social Services and Youth Bureau Michael Piazza want Putnam County residents to be aware of the following resources:

“Putnam County Cares” is an app available on your mobile phone. Within that app is “SPEAK; Suicide Prevention Education and Awareness Kit.”

The Putnam County Crisis Hotline – 845 225-1222 is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-TALK

Immediate Evaluation and Crisis Intervention is available at the Emergency Room of Putnam Hospital Center 24 hours a day 7 days a week,

For persons who are depressed and wish to seek counseling, Mental Health Counseling is available at:
Putnam Family and Community Services – 225-2700
Putnam Community Services of Rockland Psychiatric Center – 278-2500.

For those seeking help for Alcohol and other Drug Abuse please call:
Arms Acres – 225-3400
Putnam Family and Community Services – 225-2700
St. Christopher’s Inn – 335-1000

For information and referral you may also call The Mental Health Association/Putnam at 278-7600, and
The National Council on Alcoholism and Other Drug Dependencies – 225-4646.

If you have any questions, you may also call the Putnam County Department of Mental Health, Social Services and Youth Bureau at 845 808-1500 ext. 45201.