Real stories
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Hosts "Talk Away the Dark" Roundtable Discussion with Zack Snyder and Charlie Hunnam during Mental Health Awareness Month
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, AFSP is streaming a special roundtable event with film director, producer and screenwriter Zack Synder, actor and screenwriter Charlie Hunnam
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Hosts 35th Annual Lifesavers Gala
On May 23, 2024, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) will hold its 35th annual Lifesaver’s Gala at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. Jacoby Shaddix of the legendary rock band Papa Roach to receive Public Education Lifesaver Award
L.E.T.S Save Lives: A Message of Hope and Perseverance for the Black Community
What makes L.E.T.S. Save Lives such a vital program is that it helps to foster new conversations about mental health and suicide prevention for the Black community. This program has been created by and for Black people and resonates in a unique way with its audience.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Deepens Awareness of #TalkAwayTheDark and Launches New Guide to Have Difficult Conversations During Mental Health Awareness Month
This Mental Health Awareness Month, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is empowering people to have brave conversations about mental health, and to lean in and ask directly about suicide if struggles are not improving.
Research Roundup May 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Advocating for Hope: Supporting Suicide Prevention on Capitol Hill at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Annual Advocacy Forum
Each June, Volunteer Advocates from AFSP chapters all over the country travel to D.C. to meet with our members of Congress and encourage their support for impactful policies related to suicide prevention and mental health. This year will be the 15th year AFSP is hosting this important event.
Former “Dance Moms” Star Nia Sioux Highlights Mental Health with “Seize the Awkward” in Directorial Debut
Kenzie Ziegler, GAYLE among stars also featured in new digital content series for Mental Health Awareness Month
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Statement on the Release of the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention
The National Strategy is a comprehensive vision that is in line with AFSP’s long-standing mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide, and our public policy priorities.
Preventing Youth Suicide: Bringing Evidence into Practice
Pediatricians are increasingly encountering patients with suicide risk and are in need of evidence-based strategies to support patients with suicide risk. To help meet this need, AFSP and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have joined forces to save lives and support pediatric health providers.
A Beacon of Strength: Ashley Judd’s Fight for Suicide Prevention
Actor, humanitarian, and author Ashley Judd became an outspoken advocate for suicide prevention after her beloved mother, Naomi Judd, died by suicide in 2022.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Honors Volunteers Changing the Tides on Suicide and Mental Health Nationwide
AFSP is at the vanguard of suicide prevention and mental health thanks to volunteers who dedicate their time, expertise, passion and courage to the cause.
Research Roundup April 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Applauds Bipartisan Effort to Improve 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
AFSP is heartened to see the collaboration of bipartisan Congressional leaders and the FCC to build up the 988 Lifeline to be as robust and effective as it can be.
Why I Return: Over a Decade of Volunteering With the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
National Volunteer Week is an annual opportunity to consider how we can each support a cause we care about. For the last 15 years, I have volunteered to help raise awareness about something that has impacted me personally: suicide.
President Biden Reaffirms Commitment to Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Proposal
AFSP applauds President Biden and his recently released 2025 budget proposal giving significant funding and attention to critical suicide prevention and mental health activities.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Advocates Gather Nationwide, Calling for Action on Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Policy
Top priorities include securing continued funding for state 988 crisis services systems and increasing lethal means safety
Bechtel and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Partner to Prevent Construction Worker Suicides
Bechtel’s $7 million dollar commitment to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention will provide critical resources and programming to 500,000 U.S. construction workers over the next five years.
AFSP’s 2024 Chapter Leadership Conference: Fostering Leadership
AFSP's 19th annual Chapter Leadership Conference took place January 25-28 in Orlando, Florida. Each year, CLC brings together volunteers from our local chapters across the country to share thoughts and ideas, consider our accomplishments, and inspire each other to move our mission forward.
Research Roundup March 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Growing up Transgender in the South: Legislative Attacks, Suicide Prevention, and Advocating for a Path Forward
As a transgender woman who was able to begin receiving gender-affirming care in my youth while living in rural Arkansas, I deeply understand the stakes that the anti-trans legislation that has been proposed across the country, particularly in the South, holds for young transgender people.
Honoring Women’s History Through Suicide Prevention Research: Remembering Dr. Barbara Stanley
March is Women’s History Month, and I can’t help but think about one of the most important women in my life and in the field of suicide prevention: my mentor Dr. Barbara Stanley. Barbara was one of the world’s foremost leaders in suicide prevention research.
Papa Roach Earns 12th Career #1 With “Leave a Light On (Talk Away The Dark)”
Band donating song royalties to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Join the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in Boston for the 2024 Overnight Walk!
AFSP is hosting the 29th Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk, its flagship fundraising event, on June 22, 2024, in Boston, MA.
SAU Hosts AFSP Panel & Faculty/Staff Training as Black History Month Mental Health Event
The panel occurs on Tuesday, February 20th, from 11 a.m. to noon at the university campus’ Seby Jones Fine Arts Center Auditorium.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Launches Suicide Prevention Resource for Black and African American Communities
L.E.T.S. is a free presentation created by and for Black people, designed to reduce cultural stigma, foster conversations about mental health, and raise awareness of suicide prevention for individuals who identify as Black or African American.
PAPA ROACH CONTINUES SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH AND SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS WITH RELEASE OF “SCARS FEAT. CHRIS DAUGHTRY (LIVE)"
Papa Roach Pledges Donation to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Ongoing Support of the Organization’s Talk Away the Dark Public Service Campaign
Suicide Does Not Discriminate: Normalizing the Conversation Around Suicide in the Black and African American Community
L.E.T.S. Save Lives is an effort to help normalize the conversation regarding suicide in the Black and African American community. It is a reminder that the danger of losing hope and social connection is not exclusive to any one race or culture, and neither is the opportunity to create pathways to restore hope.
Research Roundup February 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
If Anyone Asks, This Was an Accident: Why We Have to Talk Openly About Suicide
If we are going to cut down on the alarming number of suicides, we need to let our friends and families talk about their suicidal thoughts without making them feel ashamed. We have to figure out a way to have these painful conversations, regardless of how frightened or hurt we may be to hear them.
State Capitol Days: How Our Volunteer Advocates Are Making a Difference
State Capitol Days are here! Read how our Volunteer Advocates make a difference in supporting critical legislative and policy issues in their states — and how you can, too!
Research Roundup January 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Welcomes 2024 National Board Members
Board members oversee the organization’s efforts to empower the public through suicide prevention research, education, support and advocacy.
Training to Become a Volunteer Advocate for Suicide Prevention Felt Like a Gift
In January of 2016, I lost my 18-year-old nephew to suicide. The loss was devastating. Being an AFSP Volunteer Advocate has helped me process my own personal experiences, and be braver in standing up for my own needs, those of my family, our community, and all humans. We’re all in this together.
Suicide Loss and the Holidays: Tips From a Suicide Researcher and Grief Clinician
As a psychologist who works with suicide loss survivors, I have focused on the idea of unconscious grief processes, which allows people to adopt a more accepting attitude towards their grief and healing. This concept can be particularly helpful during the holidays, which often bring in so many difficult expectations.
Illinois Loss and Healing Videos
Watch our volunteers, Erika Barber and Edmond Yomtoob, speak about loss and healing in these videos.
In Tom’s Light: Addressing the Intersection of Opioids and Suicide
Opioid use disorder and suicide prevention are two topics that have immense personal meaning for me. As I wrote in a previous blog for AFSP, my son Tom passed away on Friday, September 30th, 2016, after losing his long battle with depression; he died of a heroin overdose.
Five Lessons I've Learned About Navigating Grief and Mental Health As a Man
I have lost multiple loved ones to suicide, and while I have never contemplated suicide myself, I have had my own challenges with mental health. My goal in sharing this essay is to offer some hard-earned wisdom to men experiencing mental health challenges.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Announces Annual Research Grants Totaling Over $9 Million
It is through scientific research that we have learned what we know about suicide and have developed assessment tools and interventions to save lives.
Statement on Mental Health in Light of Global Conflict
In light of the most recent conflict in Israel and Gaza, AFSP has developed the following list of resources that specifically serve Jewish and Muslim communities, respectively.
Research Roundup December 2023: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Watch the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's 2023 Día de Esperanza (Day of Hope) Virtual Live Event
This year, thousands tuned in for Día de Esperanza (Day of Hope) on Friday, November 17. We hope you watch the recording of this special event.
Watch the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's 2023 Survivor Day Live Virtual Event
This year, thousands tuned in for Survivor Day Live on Saturday, November 18. We hope you watch the recording of this powerful event.
2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Report Intensifies Call for Continued Efforts to Improve Veteran Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
The report from the VA strengthens our resolve to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.
La American Foundation for Suicide Prevention honra el Día Internacional de los Sobrevivientes de Pérdidas por Suicidio por medio de más de 300 eventos comunitarios alrededor del mundo
Quienes han perdido a sus seres queridos por suicidio ofrecen sanación y conexión antes del feriado de Acción de Gracias
Making International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day Accessible to the Deaf Community
I’m an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter. I’ve spent more than half my life in the Deaf Community, and am forever grateful they’ve allowed me to be part of their world. On March 31st, 2017, I gained a new identity: a Sibling Suicide Loss Survivor.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Held International Summit on Suicide Research, Convening World’s Leading Researchers
At this year’s Summit, more than 560 leading researchers representing 32 countries convened to discuss the latest research findings.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Honors International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day Through 300+ Community Events, New Documentary
Those who have lost loved ones to suicide offered healing and connection ahead of Thanksgiving Holiday
How to Lose (On Death and Dying)
In the new book The Invisible Ache: Black Men Identifying Their Pain and Reclaiming Their Power by Courtney B. Vance and Dr. Robin L. Smith, famed actor Courtney B. Vance shares his heartfelt, personal journey in the wake of his father’s death by suicide.
Audacy’s 10th Annual “We Can Survive” Concert Was a Night Full of Hope, Star-Studded Musical Performances, and Incredible Fundraising for AFSP
Audacy's 10th Annual We Can Survive concert took place on the East Coast for the very first time on Saturday, and it was an unforgettable night of music, unity, and hope featuring chart topping artists to rising stars.
Research Roundup November 2023: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Bringing Hope and Suicide Prevention Resources to Veterans and Military Members
To me, AFSP is the embodiment of effective leadership. Every volunteer can use their strengths and contribute in whatever capacity suits them. It’s a privilege to help Veterans and military members connect and engage openly about mental health.
Papa Roach Donates $150,000 to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Rock legends Papa Roach announced today that they have made a $150,000 donation to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) “Talk Away The Dark Campaign”
Making College Campuses Safer From Suicide
Suicide is one of the most common causes of death among U.S. college students. Each year, approximately 24,000 college students attempt suicide. 1,100 students do not survive their crisis, making suicide the second-leading cause of death among U.S. college students. Yet research shows that suicide is often preventable.
NAMI and AFSP Celebrate Launch of Bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus
AFSP thanks Senators Padilla, Tillis, Ernst, and Smith for their leadership in launching the bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus
We’ve Come So Far: Celebrating the 20th Annual Atlanta Out of the Darkness Community Walk for Suicide Prevention
AFSP's Out of the Darkness Walks raise awareness and much-needed funds to combat suicide, which has long been a leading cause of death. The Atlanta Community Walk holds a special place in my heart – especially this year, as it is Atlanta’s 20th annual event.
Research Roundup October 2023: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Megan Thee Stallion Says “Check In On Your Friends” in New PSA With Seize the Awkward
Grammy Award-winning artist and philanthropist joins the national campaign, encouraging young adults to reach out to each other.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention arroja luz sobre la necesidad de reducir el prejuicio de la salud mental y del suicidio en las comunidades latinx e hispanas
El suicidio se puede prevenir y, con conocimiento y acción, se pueden salvar vidas.
ENCOURAGING HELP-SEEKING WITH ANONYMOUS MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Physicians and residents use ISP’s online self-assessment tool to screen for stress, depression and other mental health concerns, and counselors personally respond to address their specific concerns, provide counseling and share mental health resources.
A Haunted Girl: A Father and Daughter Collaborate on a Horror Comic Miniseries That Reflects Their Own Scary — but Ultimately Hopeful — Journey With Mental Health
A Haunted Girl is a four-issue graphic novel horror miniseries written by acclaimed comics writer Ethan Sacks, alongside his daughter Naomi. The main character’s inner journey deeply involves mental health, as she returns to high school after a stay in a psychiatric hospital.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Shines Light on Reducing Mental Health and Suicide Stigma in Latinx and Hispanic Communities
AFSP is highlighting important ways to take action within the Latinx community to deepen awareness about suicide prevention and support those who may be struggling to find the help they need.
AUDACY’S MENTAL HEALTH BROADCAST, “I’M LISTENING,” RETURNS SEPTEMBER 20, 2023, TO DELIVER MORE CONVERSATIONS AND WAYS TO MAINTAIN MENTAL HEALTH
“Talk about it more…I feel like the more I’ve spoken about it, the more that my friends have opened up to me about it, and the less alone you feel.” - Ed Sheeran
QB United Nonprofit Debuts to Support Charitable Initiatives; Launches Global Suicide Prevention Awareness Campaign as its First with 57 NFL Quarterback Greats
QB United's mission is to bring past and current NFL quarterbacks together as one united voice, which will amplify each quarterback's individual charitable efforts, while maximizing impact and ultimately saving lives.
NEW YORK JETS DEFENSIVE END SOLOMON THOMAS AND DALLAS COWBOYS QUARTERBACK DAK PRESCOTT ALONG WITH THEIR FOUNDATIONS JOIN FORCES WITH LEADING MENTAL HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS TO EXPAND CRISIS SUPPORT DURING SUICIDE AWARENESS MONTH
This groundbreaking alliance aims to amplify access to free, around-the-clock mental health and crisis support for individuals in need, coinciding with National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Research Roundup September 2023: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Recognizes National Grief Awareness Day and Provides Resources for Living with Suicide Loss
AFSP has created a new “Living with Loss” video series for people looking to process their own grief or to support others.
Volunteer with AFSP
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Hosts "Talk Away the Dark" Roundtable Discussion with Zack Snyder and Charlie Hunnam during Mental Health Awareness Month
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, AFSP is streaming a special roundtable event with film director, producer and screenwriter Zack Synder, actor and screenwriter Charlie Hunnam
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Hosts 35th Annual Lifesavers Gala
On May 23, 2024, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) will hold its 35th annual Lifesaver’s Gala at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. Jacoby Shaddix of the legendary rock band Papa Roach to receive Public Education Lifesaver Award
L.E.T.S Save Lives: A Message of Hope and Perseverance for the Black Community
What makes L.E.T.S. Save Lives such a vital program is that it helps to foster new conversations about mental health and suicide prevention for the Black community. This program has been created by and for Black people and resonates in a unique way with its audience.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Deepens Awareness of #TalkAwayTheDark and Launches New Guide to Have Difficult Conversations During Mental Health Awareness Month
This Mental Health Awareness Month, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is empowering people to have brave conversations about mental health, and to lean in and ask directly about suicide if struggles are not improving.
Research Roundup May 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Advocating for Hope: Supporting Suicide Prevention on Capitol Hill at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Annual Advocacy Forum
Each June, Volunteer Advocates from AFSP chapters all over the country travel to D.C. to meet with our members of Congress and encourage their support for impactful policies related to suicide prevention and mental health. This year will be the 15th year AFSP is hosting this important event.
Former “Dance Moms” Star Nia Sioux Highlights Mental Health with “Seize the Awkward” in Directorial Debut
Kenzie Ziegler, GAYLE among stars also featured in new digital content series for Mental Health Awareness Month
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Statement on the Release of the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention
The National Strategy is a comprehensive vision that is in line with AFSP’s long-standing mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide, and our public policy priorities.
Preventing Youth Suicide: Bringing Evidence into Practice
Pediatricians are increasingly encountering patients with suicide risk and are in need of evidence-based strategies to support patients with suicide risk. To help meet this need, AFSP and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have joined forces to save lives and support pediatric health providers.
A Beacon of Strength: Ashley Judd’s Fight for Suicide Prevention
Actor, humanitarian, and author Ashley Judd became an outspoken advocate for suicide prevention after her beloved mother, Naomi Judd, died by suicide in 2022.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Honors Volunteers Changing the Tides on Suicide and Mental Health Nationwide
AFSP is at the vanguard of suicide prevention and mental health thanks to volunteers who dedicate their time, expertise, passion and courage to the cause.
Research Roundup April 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Applauds Bipartisan Effort to Improve 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
AFSP is heartened to see the collaboration of bipartisan Congressional leaders and the FCC to build up the 988 Lifeline to be as robust and effective as it can be.
Why I Return: Over a Decade of Volunteering With the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
National Volunteer Week is an annual opportunity to consider how we can each support a cause we care about. For the last 15 years, I have volunteered to help raise awareness about something that has impacted me personally: suicide.
President Biden Reaffirms Commitment to Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Proposal
AFSP applauds President Biden and his recently released 2025 budget proposal giving significant funding and attention to critical suicide prevention and mental health activities.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Advocates Gather Nationwide, Calling for Action on Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Policy
Top priorities include securing continued funding for state 988 crisis services systems and increasing lethal means safety
Bechtel and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Partner to Prevent Construction Worker Suicides
Bechtel’s $7 million dollar commitment to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention will provide critical resources and programming to 500,000 U.S. construction workers over the next five years.
AFSP’s 2024 Chapter Leadership Conference: Fostering Leadership
AFSP's 19th annual Chapter Leadership Conference took place January 25-28 in Orlando, Florida. Each year, CLC brings together volunteers from our local chapters across the country to share thoughts and ideas, consider our accomplishments, and inspire each other to move our mission forward.
Research Roundup March 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Growing up Transgender in the South: Legislative Attacks, Suicide Prevention, and Advocating for a Path Forward
As a transgender woman who was able to begin receiving gender-affirming care in my youth while living in rural Arkansas, I deeply understand the stakes that the anti-trans legislation that has been proposed across the country, particularly in the South, holds for young transgender people.
Honoring Women’s History Through Suicide Prevention Research: Remembering Dr. Barbara Stanley
March is Women’s History Month, and I can’t help but think about one of the most important women in my life and in the field of suicide prevention: my mentor Dr. Barbara Stanley. Barbara was one of the world’s foremost leaders in suicide prevention research.
Papa Roach Earns 12th Career #1 With “Leave a Light On (Talk Away The Dark)”
Band donating song royalties to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Join the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in Boston for the 2024 Overnight Walk!
AFSP is hosting the 29th Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk, its flagship fundraising event, on June 22, 2024, in Boston, MA.
SAU Hosts AFSP Panel & Faculty/Staff Training as Black History Month Mental Health Event
The panel occurs on Tuesday, February 20th, from 11 a.m. to noon at the university campus’ Seby Jones Fine Arts Center Auditorium.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Launches Suicide Prevention Resource for Black and African American Communities
L.E.T.S. is a free presentation created by and for Black people, designed to reduce cultural stigma, foster conversations about mental health, and raise awareness of suicide prevention for individuals who identify as Black or African American.
PAPA ROACH CONTINUES SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH AND SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS WITH RELEASE OF “SCARS FEAT. CHRIS DAUGHTRY (LIVE)"
Papa Roach Pledges Donation to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Ongoing Support of the Organization’s Talk Away the Dark Public Service Campaign
Suicide Does Not Discriminate: Normalizing the Conversation Around Suicide in the Black and African American Community
L.E.T.S. Save Lives is an effort to help normalize the conversation regarding suicide in the Black and African American community. It is a reminder that the danger of losing hope and social connection is not exclusive to any one race or culture, and neither is the opportunity to create pathways to restore hope.
Research Roundup February 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
If Anyone Asks, This Was an Accident: Why We Have to Talk Openly About Suicide
If we are going to cut down on the alarming number of suicides, we need to let our friends and families talk about their suicidal thoughts without making them feel ashamed. We have to figure out a way to have these painful conversations, regardless of how frightened or hurt we may be to hear them.
State Capitol Days: How Our Volunteer Advocates Are Making a Difference
State Capitol Days are here! Read how our Volunteer Advocates make a difference in supporting critical legislative and policy issues in their states — and how you can, too!
Research Roundup January 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Welcomes 2024 National Board Members
Board members oversee the organization’s efforts to empower the public through suicide prevention research, education, support and advocacy.
Training to Become a Volunteer Advocate for Suicide Prevention Felt Like a Gift
In January of 2016, I lost my 18-year-old nephew to suicide. The loss was devastating. Being an AFSP Volunteer Advocate has helped me process my own personal experiences, and be braver in standing up for my own needs, those of my family, our community, and all humans. We’re all in this together.
Suicide Loss and the Holidays: Tips From a Suicide Researcher and Grief Clinician
As a psychologist who works with suicide loss survivors, I have focused on the idea of unconscious grief processes, which allows people to adopt a more accepting attitude towards their grief and healing. This concept can be particularly helpful during the holidays, which often bring in so many difficult expectations.
Illinois Loss and Healing Videos
Watch our volunteers, Erika Barber and Edmond Yomtoob, speak about loss and healing in these videos.
In Tom’s Light: Addressing the Intersection of Opioids and Suicide
Opioid use disorder and suicide prevention are two topics that have immense personal meaning for me. As I wrote in a previous blog for AFSP, my son Tom passed away on Friday, September 30th, 2016, after losing his long battle with depression; he died of a heroin overdose.
Five Lessons I've Learned About Navigating Grief and Mental Health As a Man
I have lost multiple loved ones to suicide, and while I have never contemplated suicide myself, I have had my own challenges with mental health. My goal in sharing this essay is to offer some hard-earned wisdom to men experiencing mental health challenges.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Announces Annual Research Grants Totaling Over $9 Million
It is through scientific research that we have learned what we know about suicide and have developed assessment tools and interventions to save lives.
Statement on Mental Health in Light of Global Conflict
In light of the most recent conflict in Israel and Gaza, AFSP has developed the following list of resources that specifically serve Jewish and Muslim communities, respectively.
Research Roundup December 2023: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Watch the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's 2023 Día de Esperanza (Day of Hope) Virtual Live Event
This year, thousands tuned in for Día de Esperanza (Day of Hope) on Friday, November 17. We hope you watch the recording of this special event.
Watch the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's 2023 Survivor Day Live Virtual Event
This year, thousands tuned in for Survivor Day Live on Saturday, November 18. We hope you watch the recording of this powerful event.
2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Report Intensifies Call for Continued Efforts to Improve Veteran Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
The report from the VA strengthens our resolve to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.
La American Foundation for Suicide Prevention honra el Día Internacional de los Sobrevivientes de Pérdidas por Suicidio por medio de más de 300 eventos comunitarios alrededor del mundo
Quienes han perdido a sus seres queridos por suicidio ofrecen sanación y conexión antes del feriado de Acción de Gracias
Making International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day Accessible to the Deaf Community
I’m an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter. I’ve spent more than half my life in the Deaf Community, and am forever grateful they’ve allowed me to be part of their world. On March 31st, 2017, I gained a new identity: a Sibling Suicide Loss Survivor.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Held International Summit on Suicide Research, Convening World’s Leading Researchers
At this year’s Summit, more than 560 leading researchers representing 32 countries convened to discuss the latest research findings.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Honors International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day Through 300+ Community Events, New Documentary
Those who have lost loved ones to suicide offered healing and connection ahead of Thanksgiving Holiday
How to Lose (On Death and Dying)
In the new book The Invisible Ache: Black Men Identifying Their Pain and Reclaiming Their Power by Courtney B. Vance and Dr. Robin L. Smith, famed actor Courtney B. Vance shares his heartfelt, personal journey in the wake of his father’s death by suicide.
Audacy’s 10th Annual “We Can Survive” Concert Was a Night Full of Hope, Star-Studded Musical Performances, and Incredible Fundraising for AFSP
Audacy's 10th Annual We Can Survive concert took place on the East Coast for the very first time on Saturday, and it was an unforgettable night of music, unity, and hope featuring chart topping artists to rising stars.
Research Roundup November 2023: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Bringing Hope and Suicide Prevention Resources to Veterans and Military Members
To me, AFSP is the embodiment of effective leadership. Every volunteer can use their strengths and contribute in whatever capacity suits them. It’s a privilege to help Veterans and military members connect and engage openly about mental health.
Papa Roach Donates $150,000 to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Rock legends Papa Roach announced today that they have made a $150,000 donation to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) “Talk Away The Dark Campaign”
Making College Campuses Safer From Suicide
Suicide is one of the most common causes of death among U.S. college students. Each year, approximately 24,000 college students attempt suicide. 1,100 students do not survive their crisis, making suicide the second-leading cause of death among U.S. college students. Yet research shows that suicide is often preventable.
NAMI and AFSP Celebrate Launch of Bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus
AFSP thanks Senators Padilla, Tillis, Ernst, and Smith for their leadership in launching the bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus
We’ve Come So Far: Celebrating the 20th Annual Atlanta Out of the Darkness Community Walk for Suicide Prevention
AFSP's Out of the Darkness Walks raise awareness and much-needed funds to combat suicide, which has long been a leading cause of death. The Atlanta Community Walk holds a special place in my heart – especially this year, as it is Atlanta’s 20th annual event.
Research Roundup October 2023: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Megan Thee Stallion Says “Check In On Your Friends” in New PSA With Seize the Awkward
Grammy Award-winning artist and philanthropist joins the national campaign, encouraging young adults to reach out to each other.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention arroja luz sobre la necesidad de reducir el prejuicio de la salud mental y del suicidio en las comunidades latinx e hispanas
El suicidio se puede prevenir y, con conocimiento y acción, se pueden salvar vidas.
ENCOURAGING HELP-SEEKING WITH ANONYMOUS MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Physicians and residents use ISP’s online self-assessment tool to screen for stress, depression and other mental health concerns, and counselors personally respond to address their specific concerns, provide counseling and share mental health resources.
A Haunted Girl: A Father and Daughter Collaborate on a Horror Comic Miniseries That Reflects Their Own Scary — but Ultimately Hopeful — Journey With Mental Health
A Haunted Girl is a four-issue graphic novel horror miniseries written by acclaimed comics writer Ethan Sacks, alongside his daughter Naomi. The main character’s inner journey deeply involves mental health, as she returns to high school after a stay in a psychiatric hospital.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Shines Light on Reducing Mental Health and Suicide Stigma in Latinx and Hispanic Communities
AFSP is highlighting important ways to take action within the Latinx community to deepen awareness about suicide prevention and support those who may be struggling to find the help they need.
AUDACY’S MENTAL HEALTH BROADCAST, “I’M LISTENING,” RETURNS SEPTEMBER 20, 2023, TO DELIVER MORE CONVERSATIONS AND WAYS TO MAINTAIN MENTAL HEALTH
“Talk about it more…I feel like the more I’ve spoken about it, the more that my friends have opened up to me about it, and the less alone you feel.” - Ed Sheeran
QB United Nonprofit Debuts to Support Charitable Initiatives; Launches Global Suicide Prevention Awareness Campaign as its First with 57 NFL Quarterback Greats
QB United's mission is to bring past and current NFL quarterbacks together as one united voice, which will amplify each quarterback's individual charitable efforts, while maximizing impact and ultimately saving lives.
NEW YORK JETS DEFENSIVE END SOLOMON THOMAS AND DALLAS COWBOYS QUARTERBACK DAK PRESCOTT ALONG WITH THEIR FOUNDATIONS JOIN FORCES WITH LEADING MENTAL HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS TO EXPAND CRISIS SUPPORT DURING SUICIDE AWARENESS MONTH
This groundbreaking alliance aims to amplify access to free, around-the-clock mental health and crisis support for individuals in need, coinciding with National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Research Roundup September 2023: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Recognizes National Grief Awareness Day and Provides Resources for Living with Suicide Loss
AFSP has created a new “Living with Loss” video series for people looking to process their own grief or to support others.