The Biden Harris Administration, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has unveiled the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention and Federal Action Plan. This marks the first time in over a decade that a new 10-year strategy has been introduced to tackle the urgent public health crisis of suicide.

The National Strategy, developed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), aims to address the growing concerns surrounding suicide in the United States. According to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, "Suicide is a complex public health problem, tragically impacting our friends, family members, neighbors, and community members nationwide."

The Federal Action Plan includes 200 specific actions to be implemented and evaluated over the next three years. These actions range from addressing substance use and suicide risk together in clinical settings to funding a mobile crisis locator for crisis centers, increasing support for survivors of suicide loss, and evaluating community-based prevention strategies.

HHS Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm emphasized the Administration's commitment to transforming the behavioral health system and reducing suicide rates across the country. "The National Strategy builds on our work across government to provide prevention, intervention, and recovery services for those in need," Palm stated.

The National Strategy also prioritizes equity in suicide prevention efforts, recognizing the need to address populations disproportionately affected by suicide. Colleen Carr, Director of the Action Alliance, highlighted the urgency of the strategy, stating, "There is both an urgent need and unique opportunity to make significant and measurable progress around suicide prevention in the U.S."

CDC Director Mandy Cohen emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to mental health and suicide prevention, stating, "Improving mental health and preventing suicides requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach."

The National Strategy for Suicide Prevention and Federal Action Plan aim to prevent suicide risk, support individuals in crisis, prevent reattempts, promote long-term recovery, and support survivors. These initiatives underscore the Administration's dedication to addressing the mental health crisis and building healthier, more connected communities.

For more information on the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention and Federal Action Plan, visit www.hhs.gov/nssp. If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org.