Governor Kathy Hochul has issued a proclamation marking September as Suicide Prevention Month in New York, highlighting ongoing statewide efforts to address suicide and support those at risk. As part of the recognition, several state landmarks and bridges will be illuminated in purple and teal on September 2 to show solidarity with individuals affected by suicide.
“Even one suicide is one too many,” Governor Hochul said. “In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, we are redoubling our prevention efforts and raising awareness of the statewide resources available to help those in crisis or anyone who feels like they need someone to talk to.”
Suicide Prevention Month is observed nationally each September to promote awareness, education, and action around suicide prevention. The month also honors lives lost to suicide and supports survivors.
According to recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, New York recorded the second-lowest suicide rate in the country in 2023. The state’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline received over 43,000 calls in July alone, making it one of the most active hotlines nationwide.
The 988 Lifeline offers free, confidential support around the clock via phone, text, or chat. Under Governor Hochul’s administration, funding for New York’s 988 Crisis Contact Centers increased from $35 million in fiscal year 2023 to $60 million annually. This expansion aims to ensure access across all 62 counties by connecting individuals with trained crisis counselors for immediate assistance and follow-up services.
New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “No matter what, help is always available and it’s only a simple phone call, text, or online chat away. By calling 988 when you’re feeling troubled or depressed, you can connect with a friendly counselor who is trained to get you the assistance you need. Governor Hochul’s steadfast commitment to supporting 988 and other suicide prevention initiatives is helping to save lives.”
Sixteen state landmarks will be lit up as part of this initiative on September 2nd—including One World Trade Center; Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge; Kosciuszko Bridge; H. Carl McCall SUNY Building; State Education Building; Alfred E. Smith State Office Building; Empire State Plaza; State Fairgrounds Main Gate & Expo Center; Niagara Falls; Franklin D. Roosevelt Mid-Hudson Bridge; Grand Central Terminal Pershing Square Viaduct; Albany International Airport Gateway; MTA LIRR East End Gateway at Penn Station; Fairport Lift Bridge over Erie Canal; Moynihan Train Hall; Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park.
State Senator Samra Brouk commented on these efforts: “Since taking office, I have made it my goal to improve our state’s mental health and expand the resources available for those experiencing a crisis. With the help of Governor Hochul, the Office of Mental Health and my colleagues in the legislature, we have made good strides towards improving outcomes for individuals in crisis, such as the Student Lifeline Act and the Maternal Depression Screening Bill, but there is still a lot of work to be done. This proclamation recognizing September as Suicide Prevention Month in New York sends a signal to every New Yorker that we care about your mental health and we will continue to fight for you. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Mental Health, I applaud Governor Kathy Hochul for this proclamation and raising awareness of the resources available for those who are going through a mental health crisis.”
In 2023 nearly 2,000 people died by suicide in New York State—making it the second-leading cause of death among youth ages 10-24 as well as adults ages 25-34—with males dying by suicide at rates more than three times higher than females.
To address these issues among high-risk groups:
– The Office of Mental Health (OMH) Suicide Prevention Center launched MISSION—a five-year federally funded program now reaching thousands of youths on Staten Island—which screened over 1,400 youth during six months last year.
– OMH continues its CARES UP initiative targeting uniformed personnel such as law enforcement officers and firefighters with expanded resiliency training programs.
– CARES UP funding tripled under FY2025 budget allocations—now providing $3 million annually—and has supported more than 575 first responders with specialized training.
– The Onward Ops program screens service members transitioning out of military duty for suicide risk while pairing nearly 500 individuals with volunteer mentors.
– OMH oversees Capital Connect—a five-year project using evidence-based strategies focused on social connectedness within Albany-area counties—which includes school-based support teams assisting suicidal youth.
– OMH also implements programs promoting integration between primary care providers and behavioral health specialists through federal grants supporting collaborative care models.
Governor Hochul directed OMH’s reconvened Suicide Prevention Task Force toward enhancing public health approaches while focusing attention on special populations including rural communities.
