If you listened to our first episode this season, you know that the second leading cause of death in people ages 10-34 is suicide. In this episode, our guest Laurie Barnett Levine, Licensed Social Worker and Chief Executive Officer at Mental Health America of Southwestern PA, talks about the climbing rates of suicide as a result of the COVID pandemic and how Mental Health America of SWPA is responding to this crisis.

Laurie also discusses the long term impacts the pandemic will have on access of mental health services and the workforce. When you’re done listening, make sure to visit mhaswpa.org to learn more about the programs and services Mental Health America of SWPA has to offer including, QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Awareness Training.

If you or a loved one has thoughts of suicide, we encourage you to reach out for support by calling or texting the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 988.

Additional Resources:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. Callers are routed to the nearest accredited crisis center based on their location.

Crisis Resolve

Everyone experiences moments of crisis in life. You might be struggling with depression or substance abuse. Or maybe you’re overwhelmed by problems at work, feeling lonely, or having a conflict with a loved one. Whether your problem is large or small, talking with someone can help. Most of all, don’t wait for a problem to get out of control. Just call resolve Crisis Services for help at 1-888-796-8226.

Trevor Project

866-488-7386
National organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13-24.

Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States, anytime. Crisis Text Line is here for any crisis. A live, trained Crisis Counselor receives the text and responds, all from our secure online platform. The volunteer Crisis Counselor will help you move from a hot moment to a cool moment

UpStreet Pittsburgh

UpStreet is a free teen mental wellness program that offers drop-in consultations with therapists, scheduled therapy appointments, text-based peer support, and support groups for teens.