Manley Recognizes National Suicide Prevention Week, Continues Efforts to Strengthen Mental Health Resources

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – As part of her efforts to provide mental health support to residents across Illinois, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is highlighting National Suicide Prevention Week, which takes place from Sunday, Sept. 10 to Saturday, Sept. 16.

“Every year, communities across Illinois are torn apart due to suicide,” said Manley. “With many individuals being caught in a cycle of despair and hopelessness, it is critical that we remind them that help is available. I highly encourage everyone to take a few minutes this Suicide Prevention Week and learn about mental health resources that are available and ways that they can help prevent suicides and share that information with everyone.”

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the state and the 3rd leading cause of death for residents ages 15 to 34. For National Suicide Prevention Week, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is asking residents to learn about best practices when talking to someone who may be suicidal. Some tips include being present, whether physically or virtually, with an individual who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts, as well as connecting them to resources such as the 988 Lifeline. To learn more, please visit the 988 Hotline’s bethe1to.com.

During her time in the General Assembly, Manley has worked to improve mental health resources available to residents. Earlier this year, she helped pass a bill requiring insurance plans to cover one no-cost mental health prevention visit per year. Manley also helped pass legislation expanding mental health care accessibility by requiring insurance providers to cover medically necessary mental health care.

“The health and safety of my constituents has always been my top priority, a large piece of that is ensuring that mental health care is accessible and affordable,” said Manley. “No one should have to suffer from mental illness and not get the treatment they need because they cannot afford it. Going forward, I will work to ensure that all Illinoisans have access to healthcare, and mental health is healthcare.”