Suicide Training and Awareness Nationally Delivered for Universal Prevention Act of 2021

Floor Speech

I rise today in support of S. 1543, the Suicide Training and Awareness Nationally Delivered for Universal Prevention Act, or STANDUP Act.

The House version of this bill, H.R. 586, was led by Representative Scott Peters along with Energy and Commerce Committee colleagues Bilirakis, Blunt Rochester, Upton, and Tonko. It passed this Chamber unanimously last May.

This legislation helps promote suicide awareness and facilitates prevention training for students and young Americans. For the last decade, suicide has been the second-leading cause of death for Americans ages 10 to 24 and the 10th leading cause of overall deaths in the United States.

Initiatives that empower students with knowledge of the warning signs and resources for prevention can help in preventing suicide, which this legislation will help to accomplish.

The pandemic has greatly impacted the mental health of Americans across the country. It is critical that we continue addressing these growing challenges and work to prevent youth suicide while promoting the mental wellness of all.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source