PA Suicide Prevention Task Force

///PA Suicide Prevention Task Force
PA Suicide Prevention Task Force 2023-05-04T18:18:08+00:00

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.

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Suicide is the 2nd Leading Cause of Death For Ages 10-34
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Suicide is the 4th Leading Cause of Death For Ages 35-54
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34% Increase in Suicide Rates in Pennsylvania Since 1999

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

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