In a proclamation on May 8, Laredo Police Chief Miguel Rodriguez encouraged the community to address the challenges of mental health. Survivor of emotional abuse Patricia Limas shared her story at the event to emphasize the importance of open conversations about mental health. Limas spoke about her experience of enduring emotional abuse for fourteen years, highlighting the emptiness and pain she felt during that time.
After breaking free from the abusive relationship, Limas has focused on her mental health journey, not just for herself but also for her daughter. She stressed the significance of open conversations about mental health and expressed support for local recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month in May. Rodriguez pointed out the seriousness of the situation, noting the rising suicide rates in the city.
Many suicides in Laredo have been committed by a young demographic, raising concerns about issues such as bullying, cyber-bullying, and domestic violence. Rodriguez highlighted that many people face mental health struggles and urged individuals facing these challenges to seek help from support services such as the 988 hotline staffed by medical professionals.