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Office of Mental Health

Suicide Prevention

Suicide has grown into a major public health problem. In response, New York State has been pursuing impactful suicide prevention programming. While both the nation and State have seen an increase in the suicide rate over the last two decades, New York’s rate has stayed about the same since 2012.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists New York as having one of the lowest suicide rates in the nation. But even one death by suicide is too many.

More work must be done.

What Is New York State Doing to Prevent Suicide?

OMH's Suicide Prevention Center (SPCNY)

The mission of OMH SPCNY is to promote, coordinate, and advance suicide prevention across the state.

Our aim is reducing suicide attempts and deaths among New Yorkers.

Visit www.preventsuicideny.org to find trainings, county-coalitions, and other resources.

Research & Collaboration

  • The 2019 Suicide Prevention Task Force report focuses on high-risk populations highlighting strategies to support communities in effective suicide prevention.
  • OMH sponsors Suicide Prevention Conferences bringing together experts in suicide prevention.

Innovative Programs

  • New York is the first state in the nation to put in place the Attempted Suicide Short Intervention Program (ASSIP). The program has been shown to reduce new suicide attempts by previous attempt-survivors.
  • OMH is a leader in promoting the Zero Suicide initiative. More than 500 outpatient mental health clinics use the Zero Suicide model of care.
  • The CARES UP initiative helps Uniformed Personnel learn to manage stress and seek help when they need it. This program builds on resiliency, bravery, teamwork, and connection
  • Capital Connect provides critical support and fosters connection among those most at-risk in New York’s four-county Capital District.

Training

New York State provides a variety of training and resources to meet the specific needs of:

  • New York State employees
  • Clinicians and healthcare workers
  • Community members
  • School Staff & Administrators
  • Faith Communities

Resources:


988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 or visit the website to chat

Crisis Text Line

Crisis Text Line: Text "Got5" to 741-741

Comments or questions about the information on this page can be directed to Suicide Prevention.