Kane County Recognizes Suicide Prevention and Recovery Awareness in September 2025
Kane County is marking September 2025 as a month to raise awareness around suicide prevention and substance use recovery. The Kane County Board proclaimed the month to highlight resources, support, and community efforts aimed at saving lives and reducing stigma. 
Suicide remains a leading cause of death nationwide, with more than 49,000 deaths each year. In Illinois, it is the 11th leading cause of death and the third among residents ages 15–34. In Kane County, 224 lives were lost to suicide between 2020 and 2024, including 13 veterans. The Kane County Health Department is working to connect residents with help, including through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24/7. Local counselors and mobile crisis teams provide support, coping strategies, and links to community resources, including Suicide Prevention Services of America based in Batavia.
September is also recognized as National Recovery Month, honoring the millions of Americans in recovery from substance use disorder. Kane County has seen a decline in drug-related deaths, from 93 in 2023 to 59 in 2024, including a significant drop in opioid-related deaths. Efforts include overdose response training, distribution of over 13,000 doses of naloxone in 2024, and community initiatives like the Your Story Matters campaign. Kane County’s Overdose Task Force continues to unite healthcare providers, public health officials, law enforcement, and community organizations to expand treatment options and support individuals and families affected by substance use. For more information and resources, visit the Kane County Health Department.
Kane County also offers a specialty court for drug rehabilitation, providing a structured, judicially supervised alternative to prison that focuses on the individual’s recovery, improves public safety, and enhances community welfare.
Drug Court gives non-violent offenders the opportunity to participate in a rigorous program monitored by substance abuse professionals, probation officials, and court personnel. The first year requires weekly court appearances and drug testing, with participants needing 12 months of sobriety and either full-time employment or school enrollment to graduate.
Learn more at Kane County Specialty Courts.
