In 2020, 46,000 people died by suicide, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). In fact, suicide was one of the top nine leading causes of death for people ages 10-64 and the second leading cause of death for people 10-14 and 25-34 that same year. Young people who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual have higher rates of suicidal thoughts and behavior compared to their peers who identify as heterosexual. 

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In order to bring awareness to these startling statistics, Behavioral Health services leader, Copa Health, will present a mental health awareness concert on Saturday, February 25, featuring Alex Boyé at the Mesa Amphitheatre.

Alex Boyé, a multicultural vocalist, global performer, artist, and speaker has over one billion views on his YouTube channel and is well-known as an artist with a heart for young people and suicide prevention. Boyé is known for being open about his own mental health struggles, talking with young people in the crowd, and showing them that everyone struggles at one time or another.

“All my songs are a celebration of life; I want to talk about the good stuff,” Boyé said.

His performance will feature mental health professionals and access for attendees to speak to behavioral health experts at the event. 

“We are so thrilled to have Alex coming to Mesa and agreeing to perform for young people from all over the valley. I have seen him before and I know how uplifting an experience his concerts can be,” said Norm Duve, VP, Community Relations for Copa Health.

The purpose of the concert is to bring people of all ages, but especially young people, together to bring awareness to mental health and the fact that everyone experiences difficulties at one time or another. Erasing the stigma of mental health issues is paramount to getting help. 

Copa Health is joined by the Mesa Chamber of Commerce as well as the Alice Cooper Solid Rock Foundation, Banner Health, Community Bridges, Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, Dignity Health and Mesa Public Schools  in bringing Boyé to the Mesa Amphitheatre event. 

Boyé and organizations like Copa Health believe public awareness as well as strengthening support, creating protective environments, promoting connectedness, and teaching coping and problem-solving skills are key to prevention.

Other sponsors include Fellowship Square, Meta, Mesa Sunrise Rotary, A New Leaf, Bliss Pharmacy, Bliss Real Estate, Keldy Winters, La Frontera Arizona, Mind 24/7 and Teri’s Health.

What: Copa Health Presents Alex Boyé Mental Health Awareness Concert 

When: Saturday, February 25 

Where: Mesa Amphitheatre – 263 North Center Street Mesa, 85201 

Time: 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. 

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/alex-boye-suicide-prevention-concert-tickets-472813697497 

Cost: FREE