ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Suicide cases are continuing to rise in Lehigh County, according to Coroner Dan Buglio, as local organizations work to raise awareness during Mental Health Awareness Month.
According to Buglio, suicides in the county have been increasing, with around 20 suicides already reported in 2026.
Buglio said the county is currently on pace for this year to be the highest in recent years.
Lehigh County recorded 50 suicides in 2023, followed by 65 suicides in both 2024 and 2025, according to the coroner’s office.
“It breaks me down when, you know, after a suicide is committed by someone, it stays with the family, stays with their loved ones, stays with the friends for years and years to come,” Buglio said.
Buglio said there are several resources available for people who may be struggling with their mental health.
In addition to contacting the coroner’s office, people can reach out to Lehigh Valley Crisis Intervention or call and text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for immediate support.
He also encouraged people to stay aware of warning signs involving loved ones.
“If they see the person is isolating themselves or not acting the way they should be acting, just kind of depressed, not maybe eating, not partaking in normal activities that they’ve normally done,” Buglio said. “The family member needs to get involved and say, hey, what’s going on?”
Paula Gonzalez, executive director of the Preventive Measures Foundation, said mental health advocacy is something she understands personally.
“I was a teen mom. I experienced needing support. And I also have family members that do have mental health issues,” Gonzalez said.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Preventive Measures Foundation plans to hold a Mental Health Awareness Walk on May 16 in Allentown.
Gonzalez said the event is aimed at raising awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.
“That’s our main goal, is just to normalize getting that mental wellness checkup,” Gonzalez said.
The walk is free and open to the public.