In this collection, trigger warnings will be provided for two pieces: “Learning to Dream Again: Anne Alter’s Life with Schizo-phrenia” and "A Swirling, Lingering Storm: Corporal Kevin Craig Nixon."

Trigger warnings help readers prepare for potentially distressing content, providing an opportunity to pause and emotionally protect themselves so they can engage safely with a piece. As you begin to explore these candid, authentic, and vulnerable narratives, it’s important that you acknowledge what your brain and body need so you can comfortably and safely access these stories.

As you read Pittsburgh Live/Ability: Encounters in Poetry and Prose, we urge you to do so safely. Below is a list of resources that can provide support if you experience any distress or discomfort. It’s important to be aware of these resources as well as share them with others so we are all equipped and empowered with information that helps all of us stay safe.

 Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) 

Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (as of July 16, 2022)
For TTY Users use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.

Allegheny County Peer Support Warmline Service: 1-866-661-WARM (9276)
Peer specialists are trained to actively listen to their peers, empathize with their concerns, and empower individuals to choose their path to wellness and recovery.

PAAR (Pittsburgh Action Against Rape): 1-866-363-7273
Access text/chat via: paar.net.

RAINN (Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Access TTY: 1-800-799-4TTY (4889)

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
TTY: 1-800-787-3224
Live chat: thehotline.org

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Web chat: www.nami.org/help

Resources for veterans

NVF Lifeline for Vets: 1-888-777-4443
Stop Soldier Suicide: 844-317-1136
Veterans Crisis Line: (TTY)711+1-800-273-8255 #1; or text 838255.

Participant biographies

Afterword by Sheila Black