Crisis Lines
If you are in a crisis or are considering harming yourself, text “NAMI” to 741741 or call the toll-free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All calls are confidential.
“Silence can perpetuate crisis…”
In May 2019, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf announced a statewide Suicide Prevention Task Force that is responsible for developing a long-term strategy to reduce suicide in Pennsylvania.
The task force includes members appointed by state agency cabinet secretaries who are working with the General Assembly, partners in suicide prevention, and other stakeholders to develop policy solutions and strategies to increase awareness of resources for people in crisis, reduce the stigma associated with suicide and mental illnesses, and reduce the rate of suicide in Pennsylvania.
Between September and December, nine public listening sessions were held throughout the state where individuals and families affected by suicide shared their ideas for prevention, education, and how to dispel the stigma around suicide. NAMI Keystone Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Mental Health Consumers’ Association (PMHCA), and Mental Health Association in PA facilitated the listening sessions.
On January 14, 2020, the task force released its initial report, which outlines the common themes that were raised at the listening sessions and the next steps in developing a comprehensive suicide prevention plan. Read the report.
Sept. 12 — Erie Listening Session
Oct. 24 — Scranton Listening Session
Pictured from left: Shalawn James, MHAPA; Christine Michaels, CEO, NAMI Keystone PA; Kathy Quick, Exec. Dir., PMHCA
Nov. 8 — Slippery Rock Listening Session
Nov. 20 — State College Listening Session
Dec. 5 — Pittsburgh Listening Session
In The News
October 9, 2019 – PA National Guard Suicides Occuring at an Alarming Rate
August 21, 2019 – Wolf Administration Suicide Prevention Task Force Announces Statewide Public Listening Tour, Holds Session at Mental Health Planning Council
July 10, 2019 – Governor Wolf Announces $3.68 Million Youth Suicide Prevention Federal Grant
May 29, 2019 – Gov. Wolf: Statewide Suicide Prevention Task Force Created to Strengthen Supports for People in Crisis
