According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is a leading cause of death in the U.S. and suicide rates increased in almost every state from 1999 to 2016. While “mental health conditions are often seen as the cause of suicide, . . . . many people who die by suicide are not known to have a diagnosed mental health condition.”[¹]

The national suicide prevention hot line phone number is 1 (800) 273-8255. PWDF suggests our readers save this number in their phone contacts so it is readily available when needed. For more information about suicide prevention, visit their website: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

PWDF Profile

Who We Are

People With Disabilities Foundation is an operating 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in San Francisco, California, which focuses on the rights of the mentally and developmentally disabled.

Services

Advocacy: PWDF advocates for Social Security claimant’s disability benefits in eight Bay Area counties. We also provide services in disability rights, on issues regarding returning to work, and in ADA consultations, including areas of employment, health care, and education, among others. There is representation before all levels of federal court and Administrative Law Judges. No one is declined due to their inability to pay, and we offer a sliding scale for attorney’s fees.

Education/Public Awareness: To help eliminate the stigma against people with mental disabilities in society, PWDF’s educational program organizes workshops and public seminars, provides guest speakers with backgrounds in mental health, and produces educational materials such as videos.

Continuing Education Provider: State Bar of California MCLE and Commission of Rehabilitation Counselor Certification.