The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), recently awarded $68 million in grants for suicide prevention and mental health care programs. Addressing the U.S. mental health crisis and preventing suicide are top priorities of the Biden-Harris Administration and part of President Biden’s Unity Agenda.
“Every September we recognize Suicide Prevention Month as a time to raise awareness—to remind those struggling that they are not alone and that there is hope. Many people who have experienced suicidal thoughts are alive today because they got help,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, “The Biden-Harris Administration is deeply committed to expanding and improving suicide prevention in order to save lives. That is why we launched the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline two years ago and why we continue to invest in suicide prevention programs that help save lives across this country.”
In April, the Biden-Harris Administration launched a new National Strategy for Suicide Prevention and first-ever Federal Action Plan, which provide concrete recommendations for addressing gaps and meeting the needs of populations disproportionately impacted by suicide and more than 200 actions to be initiated and evaluated in the next three years.
Suicide Prevention Month is recognized every September as a time to raise awareness about suicide and share messages of hope. Information about suicide, including data, warning signs and risk factors, how to support someone considering suicide, and ways to learn more and share information are available on SAMHSA’s website.
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