Governor Hochul Announces Lighting of NYS Landmarks and Bridges to Mark the End of Suicide Prevention Month

Twelve Landmarks to be Lit Purple and Teal

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State bridges and landmarks will be lit in purple and teal on September 30 to mark the final day of Suicide Prevention Month.

"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," Governor 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."

NYS Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, "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. We all need to raise awareness of suicide prevention and work together to enable all New Yorkers to lead productive healthy lives."

September 30 is also the final day of OMH's Suicide Prevention Symposium, hosted by the agency's Suicide Prevention Center of NY. The 3-day symposium will bring together leading suicide prevention experts to discuss the newest strategies and resources in the prevention of suicide.

The bridges and landmarks to be lit in recognition of Suicide Prevention Month include:

Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
Kosciuszko Bridge
One World Trade Center
SUNY Administration Building
State Education Building
Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
State Fairgrounds, Main Gate
Mid-Hudson Bridge
Grand Central Station - Pershing Square Viaduct
Albany International Airport Gateway
The Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex
MTA LIRR - East End Gateway at Penn Station

New York has one of the lowest rates of suicide in the nation. However, the state loses approximately 1,700 New Yorkers to suicide each year. SPCNY tracks these trends to expand the state's prevention programming and reach as many people as possible.

Earlier this month, Governor Hochul marked Suicide Prevention month with an announcement of a new awareness campaign.