Attorney General Camacho Joins the Fight Against Youth Suicide

September 09, 2020 – Tamuning, Guam- Guam Attorney General Leevin T. Camacho announced that he has added his name to the 39 Attorneys General across the nation who are working with The Jason Foundation, Inc. as an Ambassador to address the public health issue of youth and young adult suicide. The announcement coincides with September 10th recognized as World Suicide Prevention Day.

In a recent CDC survey, 23.8% of Guam high school youth reported that they had “seriously considered suicide in the last twelve months.” In addition, 16.5% confirmed that they “have attempted suicide one or more times,” in the same time period.

“The statistics are alarming and remote schooling and the general uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 have only increased the anxiety and feeling of isolation for many of our youth,” said Attorney General Camacho. “This partnership will bring additional resources to Guam and support local and national efforts to save lives from the ‘silent epidemic’ of youth suicide.”

The Jason Foundation, Inc. (JFI) is recognized as a national leader in youth and young adult suicide awareness and prevention with over 125 affiliate offices located in 34 states which provides services for all 50 states.

“We are very excited to have General Camacho join our efforts in Guam and nationally,” said Clark Flatt, President of JFI. “His passion and enthusiasm will make a huge difference in our work to help stop this tragedy of suicide.”

Attorney General Camacho and The Jason Foundation will be working together in collaboration with government agencies and other non-profits in the coming months to bring additional resources to Guam’s youth and families. To find out more about The Jason Foundation and their programs, visit www.jasonfoundation.com.

The Guam Behavior Health and Crisis Center’s PEACE Program provides prevention education and community empowerment. Their 24-hour Hotline number is 647-8833/9934. The University of Guam’s Ipinangon Campus Suicide Prevention Program also has services available for students and can be reached at 735-2888.