John Katko: “I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Suicide Prevention Lifeline…”

“I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Suicide Prevention Lifeline Improvement Act. I was proud to introduce this legislation alongside my good friends and tremendous leaders on mental health issues, Congresswoman Napolitano and Congressman Beyer. Every year during Mental Health Awareness Month, I stand before this body to highlight the mental health crisis facing our Nation and the urgent need for action. This year, however, the issue is more critical than ever. As the coronavirus pandemic impacted nearly every aspect of our society and daily lives, we saw devastating increases in the number of Americans suffering from mental health issues. One report by the Centers for Disease Control last June indicated that 40 percent of U.S. adults reported struggling with mental health or substance use, with nearly 11 percent of adults and over 25 percent of those aged 18 to 24 years old having seriously considered suicide. Those are stunning numbers. The threat of this pandemic was not solely a physical or financial one. It has taken a toll on the mental health of millions upon millions of Americans, and they need our support. I am pleased that the bipartisan Suicide Prevention Lifeline Improvement Act takes important steps to provide individuals in crisis with lifesaving aid and resources by improving and strengthening the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.…”