Rockland Reporter

Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) joined Congressman Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13) and 46 of their colleagues to introduce H.Res. 1436, “Supporting September as ‘National Suicide Prevention Month.’” This bipartisan resolution, supported by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, aims to officially designate September as "National Suicide Prevention Month" and September 10, 2024, as "World Suicide Prevention Day." The initiative seeks to raise awareness about mental health issues and prevent further loss of life due to suicide.

"As someone who has lost loved ones to suicide, this is an issue that hits home for me," said Congressman Lawler. "I’m proud to join colleagues in both parties on a resolution commemorating World Suicide Prevention Day, recognizing September as National Suicide Prevention Month, and reaffirming our commitment to making suicide prevention a priority. One life lost to suicide is too many."

"I lost my first wife to her battle with depression," said Congressman Thanedar. "The pain was unimaginable and has stayed with me ever since. No one should have to experience something like that. Her passing was a turning point in my life. It taught me the importance of compassion and the need for accessible mental health services for all, and it inspired work like this in Congress."

"Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States, with nearly 50,000 people dying by suicide and 1.6 million people attempting suicide in the United States in 2022. Importantly, suicide is also preventable," said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). "AFSP commends Rep. Thanedar for introducing this resolution in recognition of September as National Suicide Prevention Month and designating September 10 as World Suicide Prevention Day. By raising awareness about suicide, promoting ways to prevent suicide, and supporting each other and our communities, we can help save lives."

Congressman Lawler represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which includes parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.