Recognizing Suicide Prevention Month

September 20, 2024

State agency leaders and advocacy organizations gathered in Harrisburg this week to focus on suicide prevention.

September is Suicide Prevention Month, which offers an opportunity to recognize and offer support to those who have been affected by suicide.

“DHS is proud to work alongside our agency colleagues and suicide prevention organizations to raise awareness about how to get help, reduce stigma, and to offer hope,” said Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh.

Here’s what you need to know:

• The initiative:  Suicide Prevention Month spreads awareness that help is available for those who are struggling and that we must ensure everyone has access to the resources they need.
• Key resource:  Pennsylvania has 12 call centers associated with the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24/7 for free by calling or texting 988.
• By the numbers:  Nearly 11,000 calls were made to 988 in Pennsylvania during August 2024.
  • More than 90 percent of calls are resolved by call center staff without the assistance of EMS or law enforcement. 
• Investments:  The upcoming budget includes investments in behavioral health, including an additional $20 million for county mental health programs and $5 million for crisis stabilization walk-in centers. It also continues a $100 million investment in mental health funding for Kindergarten–12 schools, officials noted.
• Quotable:  “When a person dies by suicide, that loss has lasting effects on families, friends, and communities who may grapple with unanswered questions, complex emotions, or fears of being stigmatized or isolated. There is always an opportunity to check in with our loved ones, so they know that people care, their lives matter, and they are not alone,” Arkoosh said.

Additional information is available online.

If you or a loved one are experiencing a behavioral health crisis, call or text 988 to contact the Suicide and Crisis Prevention Lifeline. Additional ways to contact the Lifeline via chat or American Sign Language are also available online.