ALBANY, N.Y. (WCBS 880) — Landmarks across New York State will be illuminated in purple and teal Thursday night to mark the final day of Suicide Prevention Month.
One World Trade Center, The Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, Kosciuszko Bridge, The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building, State Education Building, Alfred E. Smith State Office Building, New York State Fairgrounds, Niagara Falls, Mid-Hudson Bridge, Grand Central Terminal, Penn Station, the Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex and the Albany International Airport Gateway will all lit in commemoration.
In a press release, Gov. Kathy Hochul noted New York State has one of the lowest suicide rates in the country. However, the state still loses 1,700 residents to suicide each year, which is why Suicide Prevention Month is so important.
"Suicide Prevention Month is a time to reflect on those that have lost their lives, as well as those left behind who are deeply impacted by the loss of their friend, colleague or loved one," Hochul said. "It is especially important now, as we deal with the trauma, pain and anxiety caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, that all New Yorkers understand the warning signs and know how to engage a person who may have suicidal thoughts. While we recognize Suicide Prevention Month in September, our efforts to increase awareness of the resources available to at-risk people continues year-round."
Thursday will also mark the end of New York State’s Office of Mental Health’s Suicide Prevention Symposium, a 3-day event that brought together “leading suicide prevention experts to discuss the newest strategies and resources in the prevention of suicide.”
"Too many New Yorkers have lost loved family and friends to suicide. With Governor Hochul's support, OMH continues to expand our suicide prevention efforts and is partnering with service providers in communities across the state and sharing best practices that are helping thousands of New Yorkers,” said NYS Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan. “We all need to raise awareness of suicide prevention and work together to enable all New Yorkers to lead productive healthy lives."
The governor’s office marked the beginning of Suicide Prevention Month with a digital public service announcement and other initiatives “to raise awareness of suicide prevention and advise New Yorkers of available resources across the state.”
If you are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800 273-TALK.
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