An important message came from Harrisburg this week regarding an important issue that needs to be in the public’s eye. Leadership from multiple agencies joined advocates from Prevent Suicide PA to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and raise awareness around work to embed suicide prevention efforts across systems.

“So many Pennsylvanians of all ages, backgrounds, and identities live with mental health issues or experience times of personal crisis that leave them feeling isolated, alone, and hesitant to seek help for a variety of reasons. These are real people — our friends, neighbors, acquaintances and ourselves,” said Human Services Deputy Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Kristen Houser. “We’re here today to tell you that you are not alone, and no matter what it is you are facing, your experiences are valid, and you do not have to carry the weight of these situations by yourself. Free, caring, and confidential help is available, and using these resources can save lives.”

In a county of 39,000 residents, someone taking their own life impacts so many neighbors. During a vigil in the city last year, a community came together to mourn losses. “We simply do not have the words,” the Rev. Dr. Mark Hecht, pastor of First United Methodist Church, said during the service. “There is aching deep down inside us this night. Fear and sorrow. Anxiousness and anger.”

Service providers in our area who can offer help include Warren County Human Services, Family Services of Warren County, Beacon Light Outpatient Services, the Achievement Center, Sunrise Collaborative, Jada Swart (licensed professional counselor), Riverside Counseling LLC, Warren County Children’s Advocacy Center, the Trevor Project: Support and Crisis, and TransFamily NWPA.

Approximately 1.2 million adults attempt suicide annually in the United States, with more than 85 percent reporting having made a suicide plan prior to their attempt. In 2020, the most recent year that data is available, approximately 1,700 people died by suicide in Pennsylvania.

This month, state officials and mental health advocates remember and honor those lost to suicide, and support loss and suicide attempt survivors and all who experience suicidal ideation, mental health challenges, and crisis every day.