The East Penn School District joins communities across the nation in observing National Suicide Prevention Week from September 7–13, 2025. This week emphasizes the shared responsibility we all have in promoting mental health and well-being for our students. It serves as an important reminder of our collective commitment to creating environments where every student feels safe, valued, and supported.
Mental health concerns affect many families across every community. By building awareness and encouraging open conversations, we can reduce stigma and help students and families connect with the resources they need. Our priority is to ensure that students and families have access to immediate and ongoing support. In times of urgent need, the following resources are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round:
Immediate, 24/7 Support Resources
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 anytime to be connected with a trained crisis counselor. An online chat is also available at 988lifeline.org.
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor via text message.
- Lehigh County Crisis Intervention: Call 610-782-3127 to connect with local, professional mental health crisis support.
- Safe2Say Something: Call 1-844-723-2729, use the mobile app, or visit the website at https://www.safe2saypa.org/ to anonymously report any safety concern for a student, including threats of self-harm.
- Emergency Services: For any immediate safety concern, call 911.
Support Within Our Schools
In addition to community resources, trained professionals in each EPSD school are available during school hours to support the social and emotional needs of students. To connect with a member of the student services support team, please contact your student’s school.
Additional Support Resources
For non-urgent support and information to help promote mental health and well-being, the following local and national organizations offer valuable resources for students and families. This list represents a few of the many supports available in the community and beyond.
- NAMI Lehigh Valley: Local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness offers free support groups, educational courses, and resources for families navigating mental health conditions.Â
- Resilient Lehigh Valley: Local organization that provides resources and information for families on understanding trauma and fostering resilience in children.
- Suicide Prevention Coalition Lehigh County: Community partnership dedicated to increasing awareness, providing education and training, and coordinating prevention efforts across the county.
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): National organization that offers educational resources for parents on how to have conversations about mental health and what to do if you are worried about your child.
- Aevidum: Student-led organization focused on creating a culture of care by encouraging students to actively support one another and end the silence surrounding depression, suicide and other issues facing teens.
Thank you for your continued partnership in fostering a community that supports mental health and embraces seeking help as a sign of strength.