HARRISBURG, PA — On Tuesday, the Shapiro Administration gathered with suicide prevention advocates and Pennsylvanians affected by suicide to mark Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of behavioral health support and crisis resources.
State leaders highlighted the rising need for mental health awareness, pointing to 2023 statistics showing more than 49,000 suicide deaths nationwide, including more than 1,900 in Pennsylvania. Officials also underscored the volume of crisis response within the state, with more than 11,000 calls and nearly 7,000 chats made to Pennsylvania’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in August 2025 alone.
“By starting the conversation, providing resources, and directing help to those who need it, we can save lives,” said Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh, stressing the role of open dialogue in reducing stigma and connecting people to care.
The event focused on high-risk groups including veterans, older adults, farmers, Black youth, and LGBTQ+ communities. Veterans Affairs Adjutant General Maj. Gen. John Pippy emphasized that collaboration across agencies is critical to ensuring “no veteran falls through the cracks.” Aging Secretary Jason Kavulich called for eliminating stigma that prevents older adults from seeking mental health support, while Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding noted the unique stresses facing farmers.
Pennsylvania has taken steps to strengthen its crisis response network, investing $40 million in county mental health programs, $5 million for crisis stabilization walk-in centers, and $200 million for student mental health and school safety initiatives. The state has also worked with The Trevor Project to train 988 call centers in serving LGBTQ+ youth after federal funding for LGBTQ-specific services was cut.
Advocates, including Stephen Sharp of the Pennsylvania Black Youth Suicide Workgroup, highlighted the urgency of continuing investments. “It’s so essential to elevate and invest in this work, foster partnerships, and build systems that help our youth have ready access to care and sustainable supports towards recovery,” Sharp said.
Pennsylvanians in crisis can dial or text 988 for 24/7 free and confidential support, while farmers can call the AgriStress Helpline at 833-897-AGRI (2474) for tailored resources.
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