I was very saddened to hear about Clarksville resident Bo Ward’s public suicide in today’s Tennessean. It must be very traumatizing for those in the room, and my sympathies are with Mr. Ward’s widow as she begins to face what happened yesterday evening. I hope she is surrounded by family members and supportive friends.

• I think Clarksville Mayor Johnny Piper is right to say that the council should never meet again in that room. I hope the council will incorporate metal detectors into whatever venue replaces the current room.
• There is a National Suicide Prevention Lifeline available 24 hours a day by phone at (800) 273-8255.
• The Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network (TSPN) is a grassroots organization devoted to educating the public about suicide and working to reduce incidences of suicide. It does not operate a hotline service, but it is nonetheless dedicated to the cause of preventing this kind of tragedy.
• TSPN is partnering with the Geriatric Mental Health Foundation to raise awareness of suicide and suicide prevention this fall. Their campaign will kick off on Tuesday, October 16, at 6 p.m. in the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Nashville. Nashville and Baltimore are the only two sites that have been selected for this national organization’s effort.

One of my closest friends lost someone three years ago to suicide. She is still haunted by this loss, and what happened touched many, many people who knew and cared about the person in question. I hope anyone who is considering suicide and, equally importantly, anyone who may know someone who is exhibiting warning signs will seek help immediately. My thoughts are with everyone impacted by this tragedy today.