Pittsburgh – On Thursday, June 29, 2023, the SAFE (Suicide Awareness for Everyone) Task Force of Allegheny County is hosting a screening of the video, “I Didn’t Die But...” at Hosanna House, Inc. in Wilkinsburg. The video shares the perspective of suicide attempt survivors in an honest, raw, and emotional conversation in an effort to inspire conversation about what works, what doesn't, and what can help those in need.  

“Talking about suicide is not easy,” said Ikeya Criag-Swatson, SAFE Task Force Coordinator. “So, we need to create safe spaces where people feel more comfortable sharing their experiences and we hope this event achieves that.” 

Following the screening, staff from the Pennsylvania Mental Health Consumers’ Association (PMHCA) will facilitate a community conversation. “We hope the discussion gives people an opportunity to express their feelings about the video and hopefully creates an avenue toward healing,” said Craig-Swatson. 

According to the CDC, in 2021, more than 48,000 people died by suicide in the United States, or one death every 11 minutes. Twelve million adults seriously thought about suicide and more than one million people attempted suicide. In youth and young adults between the ages of 10-24, suicide is the second leading cause of death. 

“The statistics are staggering and explain why these conversations are so important, especially at the community level,” said Craig-Swatson. 

Doors open at 5 p.m. and the event begins at 5:30 p.m. Hosanna House, Inc. is located at 807 Wallace Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15221. Registration is appreciated, but not required. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/i-didnt-die-but-tickets-654036981217?aff=oddtdtcreator. 

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