A number of statewide initiatives are underway to raise awareness of suicide prevention and the resources available to help all New Yorkers struggling with mental health challenges, including a digital campaign highlighting the state’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Governor Kathy Hochul also issued a proclamation acknowledging September as Suicide Prevention Month in New York.
“While we continue to break down the stigma associated with suicide, there remains work to be done to ensure all New Yorkers are aware of the help in our state that is just one phone call or text away,” Governor Hochul said. “By raising awareness and promoting earlier intervention, we can provide the support and resources necessary to save lives across New York.”
To raise awareness, the New York State Office of Mental Health’s Suicide Prevention Center launched a digital marketing campaign this month that will run through September highlighting the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which offers a three-digit number supported in all 62 counties. New Yorkers experiencing thoughts of suicide can call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org/chat for a direct connection to care and support.
Additionally, Governor Hochul announced that New York State has received a five-year $10 Million grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to support the expansion of the Collaborative Care Model among youth-serving primary care practices. This funding will allow the agency to address mental and behavioral health problems among children and adolescents with a co-occurring mental and physical health problems by providing integrated services, with a goal of ensuring more equitable access to historically marginalized populations.
