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Mental Health Resources Available for All

No matter your background, mental health and personal crises can touch any of us at any point. When you’re going through this, it can be easy to turn inward and not let others around you know what you’re experiencing. But your life and your health are too important to go through these feelings alone. If you are experiencing difficult emotions or feelings of hopelessness, know that your feelings are valid.
Please know that you are not alone. There are countless mental health resources available!

There is not conclusive data indicating that suicide rates have increased as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as communities here in Pennsylvania, nationwide and around the world continue to experience social, economic and health-related impacts and disparities, the ongoing stress and uncertainty of the pandemic remains a widespread concern. Furthermore, trauma, loss, racism, and job and financial insecurity continue to impact individuals’ mental and physical health—particularly in communities of color. Despite these challenges, communities throughout the commonwealth have shown creativity, flexibility and commitment in their efforts to adapt to change and problem-solve together. It is through relationships and connections, both personal and professional, that many have found a sense of hope in these challenging times.

Everyone has a role in preventing suicide.

We can work to reduce the stigma around suicide, suicide attempts and mental health challenges. We can reinforce the message that help is available.
The following guide offers a broad range of suicide prevention resources and strategies for individuals, families, organizations and communities.

Resources for Service Members and Veterans

Veterans are 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide than Americans who never served in the military, and the risk factor for female veterans is even higher at 2.2 times.
Are you a veteran in crisis or are you concerned about a veteran in crisis? Here’s how to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line:

Pennsylvania Resources

Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC)

Suicide Prevention Resources

Creating Hope Through Action

A Resource Guide supported by the Jana Marie Foundation, Aevidum, Prevent Suicide PA, Pennsylvania Network for Student Assistance Services (PNSAS) and Garrett Lee Smith (GLS) Youth Prevention Grant.

Youth Helpline

COPLINE

  • National law enforcement officer crisis hotline for LEOs and their families
  • 1-800-267-5463 (24/7)

Resolve Crisis Network

  • Crisis intervention and stabilization services, offered via telephone, mobile team and walk-in
  • 1-800-796-8226 (24/7)

Trans Lifeline

  • By transgender people for transgender people
  •  1-877-565-8860 (24/7)

The Trevor Project

  • LGBTQ-trained counselors answercalls 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386
  • TrevorText: text Trevor to 1-202-304-1200 (Thursday and Friday, 4-8 pm EST)
  • TrevorChat: online portal available 3-9 pm EST every day

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

  • 1-800-273-8255 (24/7) – Veterans select Option 1

Vaccine Resources for Older Adults

Additional Commonwealth Resources

The Wolf Administration designated a panel made up of several state agencies, members of the General Assembly and Prevent Suicide PA who engaged members of the public, stakeholders, county task forces, individuals and families who were impacted by suicide  to develop Pennsylvania’s statewide suicide prevention plan— a four-year strategy to reduce suicide in Pennsylvania and fight the stigma associated with suicide, suicide attempts, and mental health issues.

  • Reach Out PA
    Your Mental Health Matters, an anti-stigma campaign.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of A Second Chance, Inc.

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