By Louis Zylka
The 830 Times
Councilwoman Carmen Gutierrez proclaimed September 2025 as National Suicide Prevention Month at Tuesday’s regular City Council meeting.
Gutierrez presented a proclamation recognizing the resources available in the community that serve people with mental health challenges. She also serves as secretary of the Del Rio Mental Health Committee under the Community Health Improvement Coalition (CHIC).
Linda Bailes-Foltzenlogel, president of the mental health committee, and Rachel Cedillo, director of Val Verde’s Hill Country Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities (MHDD) Center, attended the meeting for the proclamation.
Before reading the document, Gutierrez shared a personal sentiment written by her friend Pepper Bernal, who lost her niece, Kristin.
“Losing you was and is one of the biggest heartbreaks in my life; the regrets, the grief and what it’s burnt deep within my soul. May you continue to rest in peace with your grandma, who loved you so much. You are someone’s light. You are someone’s reason. You are enough. #YouAreLoved #YouAreEnough #YouAreNotAlone #SuicideAwareness #CallOrText #988 This is a reminder that you are not alone. It’s okay to not be okay, and reaching out is a sign of strength. Recovery is possible, and your story is not over yet. Help is available 24/7.
“Kristin, Aug. 19, 2001, to Sept. 5, 2023 — 22 years old,” Gutierrez read.
Gutierrez then showed a photo of Kristin and said, “This is the face of suicide.” Even though she is not a counselor, Gutierrez said she can help people connect to resources.
“There are confidential and anonymous support services available. No insurance? No problem. (I want you to) know that we care,” Gutierrez said.
“Know again that we are here to support you. Many health agencies, including the Del Rio Police Department, the Del Rio Fire Department and the hospital, all work together to make sure you know resources are here for you,” she added.
The council and audience then joined for a moment of silence. Afterward, the council, along with Foltzenlogel and Cedillo, posed for a photo.
Cedillo spoke about Hill Country’s MHDD Center at 1927 N. Bedell and its services. She said the center works with the sheriff’s department to transport individuals in crisis to psychiatric hospitals connected to the organization.
“We are available 24/7, not only for crises, but we also provide mental health services for children and adults from age 3 on up,” Cedillo said. “If they have no money for medication, we find a way to get them medication.”
“To help avoid patients reaching the suicide point, we offer local mental health services. It is better for individuals to seek services early, maybe get a diagnosis, medication and connect with psychiatrists. This can help them avoid a psychotic state and manage their symptoms,” she added.
Cedillo told The 830 Times that the crisis hotline associated with Hill Country is 1-877-466-0660.
Gutierrez also invited Esme Meza, the city’s community services director and CHIC representative, to share information about city programs. Meza said the city can refer anyone in need to local resources and reminded residents about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
