Suicides have decreased slightly in Butte County, but are still a problem, especially at the railroad tracks in Gridley. Photo by CalFire

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – Have you lost someone you love to suicide? Need help navigating life without your loved one? Do you feel overwhelmed, sad, lonely, angry, confused, guilty and somehow responsible? Need a safe place to talk?

The loss of a loved one to suicide brings unimaginable pain. You don’t just “get over it,” but you don’t have to do it alone.  

Survivors of Suicide (SOS) support group “A Chat with Tea” will be held at 7 p.m. at the Gridley Recreation Department, 194 Washington Street, on Wednesday July 30.

The group is being coordinated by Gridley City Councilmember J. Angel Calderon and Connie Voss. Calderon has a background in behavioral health and indicated that Gridley used to have the highest percentage of suicides per capita in the state (circa 1996).

Although that figure has decreased, according to the California Department of Health website, Butte County still has a suicide rate of 22.5 per 100,000 residents, nearly double the state average. Reportedly, 32 people die by suicide each year in the county.

Voss has been a survivor of suicide loss for five years.

The group’s goal is to provide a safe, comforting space and some tools to help suicide survivors through the incredibly difficult process of moving on with their lives.

If you have experienced suicide loss, you are welcome to attend, and feel free to bring a picture of your loved one.   

For those who feel suicidal, call the National Suicide Hotline by dialing 988 or Butte County 1-800- 334-6622. For more information on suicide prevention and support, visit cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DCDIC/SACB/Pages/SuicidePreventionProgram.aspx.