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September 13, 2022 - Harrisburg, PA

Wolf Administration Recognizes Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, Discusses Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Strengthen Supports and Save Lives

Leadership from multiple state 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."

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. Throughout September, we 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.


Speakers Include:
OMHSAS Deputy Secretary Kristen Houser
Dr. Denise Johnson - DOH
Maj. General. Mark Schindler - DMVA
Sec. Russell Redding - Agriculture
Sec. Jen Smith - DDAP
Sec. Robert Torres - Aging
Acting Sec. Eric Hagarty - PDE
Exec. Deputy Melissa Batula - PennDOT
Acting Commissioner Mike Humphreys - PID
Dr. Matt Wintersteen - Prevent Suicide PA
Amanda Blue - Prevent Suicide PA



Dr. Matt Wintersteen, Prevent Suicide PA, joins leadership from multiple state agencies to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and raise awareness around work to embed suicide prevention efforts across systems. ..Suicide is one of the most preventable causes of death, said Dr. Matthew Wintersteen, vice chair of Prevent Suicide PA. Prevent Suicide PA is pleased to partner with so many of Pennsylvanias state departments and agencies to highlight the importance of a comprehensive public health approach to reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with suicide.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_01.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> OMHSAS Deputy Secretary Kristen House joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. Were 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.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_02.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> OMHSAS Deputy Secretary Kristen House joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. Were 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.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_03.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> OMHSAS Deputy Secretary Kristen House joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. Were 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.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_04.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> OMHSAS Deputy Secretary Kristen House joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. Were 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.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_05.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> OMHSAS Deputy Secretary Kristen House joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. Were 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.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_06.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> OMHSAS Deputy Secretary Kristen House joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. Were 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.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_07.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Leadership from multiple state 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. .<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_08.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Dr. Denise Johnson, DOH, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Suicide is a public health issue that affects us all as a society, said Dr. Denise Johnson, acting secretary of health and Pennsylvania physician general. To those who may be experiencing crisis, help is available.  As a trained OB/GYN physician, I would like to share that there is also help for mothers struggling with their mental health in addition to the Lifeline. By calling 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS, mothers are just one call or text away from help to work through their mental health and the range of emotions that come with motherhood.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_09.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Dr. Denise Johnson, DOH, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Suicide is a public health issue that affects us all as a society, said Dr. Denise Johnson, acting secretary of health and Pennsylvania physician general. To those who may be experiencing crisis, help is available.  As a trained OB/GYN physician, I would like to share that there is also help for mothers struggling with their mental health in addition to the Lifeline. By calling 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS, mothers are just one call or text away from help to work through their mental health and the range of emotions that come with motherhood.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_10.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Maj. General. Mark Schindler, DMVA, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Veterans are a proud and humble group and may be reluctant to ask for help. I want them to know we are here for them and have resources that can help, said Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvanias adjutant general and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Our veterans have served us in times of need and now we commit to assisting them. Our commitment to serve Pennsylvanias veterans will never waver. If you know a veteran, especially one in crisis, take the time to let them know you care. With a little effort, together we can reduce the high rate of veteran suicide..<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_11.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Maj. General. Mark Schindler, DMVA, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Veterans are a proud and humble group and may be reluctant to ask for help. I want them to know we are here for them and have resources that can help, said Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvanias adjutant general and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Our veterans have served us in times of need and now we commit to assisting them. Our commitment to serve Pennsylvanias veterans will never waver. If you know a veteran, especially one in crisis, take the time to let them know you care. With a little effort, together we can reduce the high rate of veteran suicide..<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_12.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Maj. General. Mark Schindler, DMVA, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Veterans are a proud and humble group and may be reluctant to ask for help. I want them to know we are here for them and have resources that can help, said Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvanias adjutant general and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Our veterans have served us in times of need and now we commit to assisting them. Our commitment to serve Pennsylvanias veterans will never waver. If you know a veteran, especially one in crisis, take the time to let them know you care. With a little effort, together we can reduce the high rate of veteran suicide..<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_13.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Maj. General. Mark Schindler, DMVA, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Veterans are a proud and humble group and may be reluctant to ask for help. I want them to know we are here for them and have resources that can help, said Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvanias adjutant general and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Our veterans have served us in times of need and now we commit to assisting them. Our commitment to serve Pennsylvanias veterans will never waver. If you know a veteran, especially one in crisis, take the time to let them know you care. With a little effort, together we can reduce the high rate of veteran suicide..<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_14.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Sec. Russell Redding, Agriculture, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Agriculture is among the most stressful and isolating industries, said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. If our businesses shut down, we dont eat. When the pressure mounts, the Pennsylvanians who feed us day in and day out should know there is a place to turn, and someone who understands and can help. Pennsylvanias AgriStress mental health hotline is only a call or a text away, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 833-897-2474..<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_15.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Sec. Russell Redding, Agriculture, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Agriculture is among the most stressful and isolating industries, said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. If our businesses shut down, we dont eat. When the pressure mounts, the Pennsylvanians who feed us day in and day out should know there is a place to turn, and someone who understands and can help. Pennsylvanias AgriStress mental health hotline is only a call or a text away, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 833-897-2474..<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_16.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Sec. Russell Redding, Agriculture, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Agriculture is among the most stressful and isolating industries, said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. If our businesses shut down, we dont eat. When the pressure mounts, the Pennsylvanians who feed us day in and day out should know there is a place to turn, and someone who understands and can help. Pennsylvanias AgriStress mental health hotline is only a call or a text away, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 833-897-2474..<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_17.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Sec. Jen Smith, DDAP, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..This summer, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline officially launched nationwide, streamlining call and text access to the national lifeline that provides no-cost crisis response support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With the national launch of 988, Pennsylvanias 14 lifeline call centers are continuing to provide support for individuals considering suicide or self-harm, or experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress as well as for people looking for help for a loved one. While 85 percent of calls are triaged and de-escalated without deploying in-person services, if needed, a call or text to 988 can activate a mobile mental health crisis team or other emergency response services that will arrive on site and provide therapeutic interventions, make referrals for outpatient services, or transportation for further evaluation. Callers to 988 can also connect with the Veterans Crisis Line or assistance in Spanish.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_18.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Sec. Jen Smith, DDAP, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..This summer, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline officially launched nationwide, streamlining call and text access to the national lifeline that provides no-cost crisis response support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With the national launch of 988, Pennsylvanias 14 lifeline call centers are continuing to provide support for individuals considering suicide or self-harm, or experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress as well as for people looking for help for a loved one. While 85 percent of calls are triaged and de-escalated without deploying in-person services, if needed, a call or text to 988 can activate a mobile mental health crisis team or other emergency response services that will arrive on site and provide therapeutic interventions, make referrals for outpatient services, or transportation for further evaluation. Callers to 988 can also connect with the Veterans Crisis Line or assistance in Spanish.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_19.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Sec. Jen Smith, DDAP, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..This summer, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline officially launched nationwide, streamlining call and text access to the national lifeline that provides no-cost crisis response support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With the national launch of 988, Pennsylvanias 14 lifeline call centers are continuing to provide support for individuals considering suicide or self-harm, or experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress as well as for people looking for help for a loved one. While 85 percent of calls are triaged and de-escalated without deploying in-person services, if needed, a call or text to 988 can activate a mobile mental health crisis team or other emergency response services that will arrive on site and provide therapeutic interventions, make referrals for outpatient services, or transportation for further evaluation. Callers to 988 can also connect with the Veterans Crisis Line or assistance in Spanish.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_20.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Sec. Jen Smith, DDAP, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..This summer, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline officially launched nationwide, streamlining call and text access to the national lifeline that provides no-cost crisis response support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With the national launch of 988, Pennsylvanias 14 lifeline call centers are continuing to provide support for individuals considering suicide or self-harm, or experiencing a mental health crisis or emotional distress as well as for people looking for help for a loved one. While 85 percent of calls are triaged and de-escalated without deploying in-person services, if needed, a call or text to 988 can activate a mobile mental health crisis team or other emergency response services that will arrive on site and provide therapeutic interventions, make referrals for outpatient services, or transportation for further evaluation. Callers to 988 can also connect with the Veterans Crisis Line or assistance in Spanish.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_21.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Sec. Robert Torres, Aging, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Given the current size and projected increase in Pennsylvanias older adult population, we need to ensure adequate access to resources and supports to meet the demand for mental health services. Older adults are at greater risk for social isolation than other age groups. We know that social isolation adversely impacts older adults and can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression that can negatively affect their physical and mental health status, said Secretary of Aging Robert Torres. We also need to eliminate any stigma that would discourage older adults from seeking mental health services.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_22.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Sec. Robert Torres, Aging, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Given the current size and projected increase in Pennsylvanias older adult population, we need to ensure adequate access to resources and supports to meet the demand for mental health services. Older adults are at greater risk for social isolation than other age groups. We know that social isolation adversely impacts older adults and can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression that can negatively affect their physical and mental health status, said Secretary of Aging Robert Torres. We also need to eliminate any stigma that would discourage older adults from seeking mental health services.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_23.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Sec. Robert Torres, Aging, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..Given the current size and projected increase in Pennsylvanias older adult population, we need to ensure adequate access to resources and supports to meet the demand for mental health services. Older adults are at greater risk for social isolation than other age groups. We know that social isolation adversely impacts older adults and can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression that can negatively affect their physical and mental health status, said Secretary of Aging Robert Torres. We also need to eliminate any stigma that would discourage older adults from seeking mental health services.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_24.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Acting Sec. Eric Hagarty, PDE, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..It might be easy to think that there are few students at risk of suicide in the commonwealth, but recent data has shown that last year, 20 percent of Pennsylvania youth seriously considered suicide. Thats one in five kids in our commonwealth, said Acting Secretary of Education Eric Hagarty. In my role, I travel to schools across our commonwealth and interact with learners of all ages, who come from all walks of life. Each of these students has their own unique circumstances, perspectives, strengths, passions, and challenges. But one thing they all have in common is they have a bright future. They have potential and promise. This Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we are committed to keeping Pennsylvania students safe, happy, and well.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_25.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Acting Sec. Eric Hagarty, PDE, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..It might be easy to think that there are few students at risk of suicide in the commonwealth, but recent data has shown that last year, 20 percent of Pennsylvania youth seriously considered suicide. Thats one in five kids in our commonwealth, said Acting Secretary of Education Eric Hagarty. In my role, I travel to schools across our commonwealth and interact with learners of all ages, who come from all walks of life. Each of these students has their own unique circumstances, perspectives, strengths, passions, and challenges. But one thing they all have in common is they have a bright future. They have potential and promise. This Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we are committed to keeping Pennsylvania students safe, happy, and well.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_26.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Acting Sec. Eric Hagarty, PDE, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..It might be easy to think that there are few students at risk of suicide in the commonwealth, but recent data has shown that last year, 20 percent of Pennsylvania youth seriously considered suicide. Thats one in five kids in our commonwealth, said Acting Secretary of Education Eric Hagarty. In my role, I travel to schools across our commonwealth and interact with learners of all ages, who come from all walks of life. Each of these students has their own unique circumstances, perspectives, strengths, passions, and challenges. But one thing they all have in common is they have a bright future. They have potential and promise. This Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we are committed to keeping Pennsylvania students safe, happy, and well.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_27.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Acting Sec. Eric Hagarty, PDE, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. ..It might be easy to think that there are few students at risk of suicide in the commonwealth, but recent data has shown that last year, 20 percent of Pennsylvania youth seriously considered suicide. Thats one in five kids in our commonwealth, said Acting Secretary of Education Eric Hagarty. In my role, I travel to schools across our commonwealth and interact with learners of all ages, who come from all walks of life. Each of these students has their own unique circumstances, perspectives, strengths, passions, and challenges. But one thing they all have in common is they have a bright future. They have potential and promise. This Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we are committed to keeping Pennsylvania students safe, happy, and well.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_28.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Exec. Deputy Melissa Batula, PennDOT, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_29.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Exec. Deputy Melissa Batula, PennDOT, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_30.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Exec. Deputy Melissa Batula, PennDOT, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_31.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Acting Commissioner Mike Humphreys, PID, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. .<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_32.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Acting Commissioner Mike Humphreys, PID, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. .<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_33.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Acting Commissioner Mike Humphreys, PID, joins leadership from multiple state agencies and 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. .<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_34.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Dr. Matt Wintersteen, Prevent Suicide PA, joins leadership from multiple state agencies to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and raise awareness around work to embed suicide prevention efforts across systems. ..Suicide is one of the most preventable causes of death, said Dr. Matthew Wintersteen, vice chair of Prevent Suicide PA. Prevent Suicide PA is pleased to partner with so many of Pennsylvanias state departments and agencies to highlight the importance of a comprehensive public health approach to reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with suicide.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_35.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Dr. Matt Wintersteen, Prevent Suicide PA, joins leadership from multiple state agencies to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and raise awareness around work to embed suicide prevention efforts across systems. ..Suicide is one of the most preventable causes of death, said Dr. Matthew Wintersteen, vice chair of Prevent Suicide PA. Prevent Suicide PA is pleased to partner with so many of Pennsylvanias state departments and agencies to highlight the importance of a comprehensive public health approach to reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with suicide.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_36.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Dr. Matt Wintersteen, Prevent Suicide PA, joins leadership from multiple state agencies to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and raise awareness around work to embed suicide prevention efforts across systems. ..Suicide is one of the most preventable causes of death, said Dr. Matthew Wintersteen, vice chair of Prevent Suicide PA. Prevent Suicide PA is pleased to partner with so many of Pennsylvanias state departments and agencies to highlight the importance of a comprehensive public health approach to reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with suicide.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_37.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Amanda Blue, Prevent Suicide PA, joins leadership from multiple state agencies to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and raise awareness around work to embed suicide prevention efforts across systems. ..Amanda talked about the loss of her husband and son to suicide and how it's important to watch for signs and talk to people in your life who are going through hard times.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_38.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Amanda Blue, Prevent Suicide PA, joins leadership from multiple state agencies to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and raise awareness around work to embed suicide prevention efforts across systems. ..Amanda talked about the loss of her husband and son to suicide and how it's important to watch for signs and talk to people in your life who are going through hard times.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_39.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Amanda Blue, Prevent Suicide PA, joins leadership from multiple state agencies to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and raise awareness around work to embed suicide prevention efforts across systems. ..Amanda talked about the loss of her husband and son to suicide and how it's important to watch for signs and talk to people in your life who are going through hard times.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_40.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Back Row: Exec. Deputy Melissa Batula - PennDOT, Acting Sec. Eric Hagarty  PDE, Maj. General. Mark Schindler  DMVA, Dr. Matt Wintersteen  Prevent Suicide PA, Acting Commissioner Mike Humphreys  PID ..Front Row: OMHSAS Deputy Secretary Kristen Houser, Sec. Robert Torres  Aging, Amanda Blue  Prevent Suicide PA, Sec. Jen Smith  DDAP<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/22180_DHS_suicidePrevention_ERD_41.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a>