The mental health struggles inmates face took on new meaning as Lehigh County Board of Commissioners addressed the suicide of a young man, which occurred 24 hours before the Aug. 28 meeting.

Chairman of the courts and corrections committee, Commissioner John Irons, reflected on the incident.

“Any loss of life related to suicide is tragic,” Irons said. “This type of tragedy is very, very painful. For those immediately impacted, for the first responders who encounter it and for those in the broader community who see themselves, support their pain in these moments.”

Irons noted how concerning it was the suicide occurred in jail, as it reinforces ties of mental health struggles in the criminal justice system. He did not go into details as the investigation is ongoing.

Enid Santiago, of SELF! LV Women’s Reentry, voiced concerns about what she said was a “tragedy.” Santiago relayed stories from the women she is helping re-enter society and their reactions to the loss of life.

Many questioned what happened during intake and how the young man was not monitored more effectively.

“There are many, many questions,” Santiago said. “There’s a lot of traumas.”

She asked the board to ensure questions as to how intake works and staffing levels are addressed.

Irons stressed the point that there are many help services available for those in need.

“If you are struggling, please reach out and ask for help,” Irons said.

The Mental Health Crisis Line phone number is 988.