Cambria County data: Suicides inched up in 2023; coroner highlights available resources

David Hurst, The Tribune-Democrat, Johnstown, Pa.
·2 min read

Apr. 8—JOHNSTOWN, Pa. — Thirty-three people died in 2023 from intentional self-inflicted injuries in Cambria County, up from 30 the year prior, Cambria County Coroner Jeffrey Lees said.

While the total wasn't much higher than the county's annual average, it also represented a chance to remind people who are struggling that help is available — and that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem, he said.

"We all have stressors in our daily lives, whether it's societal issues, depression or illness," Lees said, "and a lot of times, these personal struggles can be overcome with good communication between our family members, coworkers, classmates, neighbors or friends."

Other times, overcoming those struggles may require professional support, he said.

"Having hard times is nothing to be ashamed of, and no one should go through anything alone," Lees said.

The Cambria County Coroner's Office has organized Yellow Ribbon Program events since the early 2000s to memorialize those lost to suicides and offer their relatives opportunities to gather and cope. It's those loved ones who suffer when someone takes their own life, Lees said.

The coroner's office and partner groups have presented programs annually to groups that have higher risks of suicides, at places such as military bases, schools and senior centers — and urge people to encourage friends and colleagues to talk about their problems if they seem depressed, disconnected or without hope.

Cambria County's 2023 suicide figures show most of the people who died were middle-aged or older. One was 18 years old.

"It's gut-wrenching when it involves a young person — a teenager," Lees said.

Cambria County has invested funds in recent years to add certified counselors in every school, a move meant to provide access to professional support and help raise a generation more open to talking about problems than previous generations.

"We all need to understand that it's OK to ask for help," Lees said.

Help is available 24/7 for people who are struggling or in crisis, by calling or texting 988 or chatting at 988lifeline.org.