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WHEREAS, the City of Pittsburgh recognizes that suicide is preventable and advocates support for evidence-based mental health services based on goals in the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention; and,
WHEREAS, Pennsylvania matches the nation-wide ranking of suicide as the 11th leading cause of death, with 1,885 lives lost through suicide in the Commonwealth in 2021; and,
WHEREAS, in 2023, an estimated 12.8 million adults aged 18 years or older reported having serious thoughts of suicide and 1.5 million adults attempted suicide in the past year (National Survey on Drug Use and Health); and,
WHEREAS, over 90% of the people who die by suicide have a diagnosable and potentially treatable mental health condition, although often that condition is not recognized or treated; and,
WHEREAS, everyone has a role to play in preventing suicide and dismantling the negative attitudes surrounding mental health awareness, and can learn suicide risks and warning signs in order to encourage those who struggle to seek help; and,
WHEREAS, Pittsburghers benefit from wonderful mental health-oriented organizations and efforts such as The Positive Painting Project, Steel Smiling, Artist Talk Mental Health, and The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Western PA Chapter that envision a world without suicide, and are dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected; and,
WHEREAS, a signature event in these local efforts is the ASFP Western Pennsylvania Chapter's annual Out of the Darkness Walk which occurred this year on September 7th, 2025, featuring community activities, resources, and connections; and,
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NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that we seek to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month, elevate our local organizations reducing stigma around suicide and mental health and disparate outcomes for marginalized communities, and to develop and implement strategies to increase access to and the delivery of quality mental health, substance use, an...
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