White House Increases Funding to Combat Suicides

White House Increases Funding to Combat Suicides

Biden Administration Allocates $232.2 Million to Tackle Suicide Rates and Improve Behavioral Health Care

The Biden administration has announced a significant step towards addressing the alarming rates of suicides and improving behavioral health care for at-risk groups. A staggering $232.2 million in grants has been allocated to combat this pressing issue. Suicide has been on the rise, with nearly 50,000 Americans dying by suicide last year alone, marking a 2.6% increase from 2021, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) emphasizes the preventability of suicide and the importance of supporting those experiencing a suicide-related crisis. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra underscores that the Biden administration is intensely committed to addressing the mental health challenges faced by America.

The grants will primarily be focused on building local capacity for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and related crisis services. The national suicide hotline was reformed last year with a three-digit number to facilitate easier recall during a crisis. The new lifeline has already received nearly 5 million calls within its first year, which is almost 2 million more than the previous hotline received in similar timeframes, reported HHS.

Despite the lifeline’s positive impact, a National Alliance on Mental Illness poll revealed that approximately 82% of respondents were unaware of the option to call or text the three-digit number for mental health assistance. This highlights the need for increased awareness and education about the 988 lifeline.

Local call centers handling crisis calls currently rely on volunteers and paid employees who provide support tailored to the caller’s geographic area. However, many of these centers face a shortage of licensed counselors to adequately respond to the volume of calls, text messages, and chats received.

• Bruce Springsteen postpones shows for the year due to health issue.
• Oregon decriminalized small amounts of drugs, but there was no sign...
• Marijuana use may harm the heart.

A significant portion of the grants, amounting to $177 million, will be allocated to enhance technology and security, as well as hiring and training crisis counselors. Additionally, $18.3 million will be used to improve response to 988 contacts from American Indian or Alaska Native populations, offering culturally competent support.

Recognizing the importance of follow-up care, $5 million has been designated to ensure that individuals who have reached out for help receive appropriate and continuous support. Furthermore, efforts will be made to coordinate call center staff with emergency services operators to reduce the burden on police. Funding will also be allocated for suicide prevention initiatives targeting college-age individuals, older adults, and those residing in rural areas, where accessibility to firearms may be higher.

Suicide affects individuals across all demographic groups. It is the second-leading cause of death among teens in the United States, with 12.7% reporting serious thoughts of suicide. In a 2021 survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, it was found that approximately 4.8% of U.S. adults also had serious thoughts of suicide. Moreover, although older adults make up only 12% of the population, they account for 18% of suicides.

Deputy HHS Secretary Andrea Palm emphasizes that the United States is facing an unprecedented behavioral health crisis impacting people of all ages. The Biden-Harris administration is fully committed to providing support to individuals, their families, and everyone affected by suicide. Investments have been made in vital areas such as the 988 lifeline, community- and school-based care, the expansion of the health workforce, and other critical supports. These efforts will persist as long as necessary.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, it is essential to seek help. Dial or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for free and confidential support.

Additional Information

For more facts about suicide, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Sources: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, CNN