Real stories
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Announces New Members to the National Board of Directors and Scientific Council in 2025
Four new members are joining the National Board of Directors, bringing the total membership to 27. Three new members joined the Scientific Council bringing that total to 17.
Study Sheds Light on Social Drivers That Increase Risk of Suicide
Yale School of Medicine and VA Connecticut Healthcare System researchers compared social determinants of health in relation to the risk of suicide, a major global public health issue and one of the leading causes of death in the United States.
Mental Health New Year's Resolutions From the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Here are some reflections from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s leadership team on their own goals for the coming year, and suggestions we might all draw inspiration from.
What I Never Got to Say: Writing (and Rewriting) My Mother’s Eulogy
As an exercise in processing my grief, I decided to write my mother a eulogy. I imagine what I would want to say to both her and others present. While these words won’t be read at a gravestone or in a church, I’ve spent hours composing them, uncovering old memories and buried feelings in the process.
Research Roundup December 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Giving Yourself the Gift of Self-care for the Holidays
While you are making your holiday gift lists this year, here are a few tips on how you can give yourself the gift of self-care this holiday season.
Promoting Safe Reporting on Suicide at the SXSW Conference: Five Recommendations for Responsible Journalism
Journalists wield significant influence and research strongly suggests that when journalists adhere to ethical reporting, like centering stories of hope and promoting mental health resources, more people are likely to seek help.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Awarded 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator
Charity Navigator awarded AFSP its highest honor: a Four-Star rating. It recognizes AFSP’s strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency.
Looking to the Sky: Processing My Father's Suicide, in My Own Time
Father’s Day has always been my least favorite holiday. I’m pretty good at burying the feelings of being left behind by my dad on the other 364 days of the year, but on this day, it’s unavoidable. This past Father's Day, though, I reached an important new milestone: I was finally able to start processing his death.
Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Resources for Indigenous Peoples
November is Native American Heritage Month. In recognition of this important month, we encourage you to use and share the following list of national mental health and suicide prevention resources focused on supporting Indigenous Peoples.
Don't Miss These Upcoming Virtual Events: Día de Esperanza (Day of Hope) and Survivor Day Live
We're just weeks away from Día de Esperanza (Day of Hope) and International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, also known as Survivor Day — taking place on Friday, November 22, and Saturday, November 23, respectively. Don't miss out on the special virtual events taking place for each event.
Research Roundup November 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 Launches Best Practices Toolkit for Workplaces Following a Death by Suicide
Establishing a set of protocols and having a plan in place before a suicide will help ensure a response that has the potential to save lives.
"These conversations are not easy, but are so necessary": The Impact of Suicide On Indigenous Peoples
In this recent video, AFSP Lifesaver Ambassador and Diné scholar charlie amáyá scott, Ph.D., calls attention to the impact of depression and suicide on Indigenous Peoples — and the power of having open, honest, and vulnerable conversations about mental health.
You Will Get Through This, I Promise: Attending My First International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day Event
Attending a Survivor Day event each year is a way to honor Dean. It is also a time to reflect on how far I have come in my grief journey, progressing from a recent loss survivor looking for answers, to an organizer who is providing comfort and care.
Top Construction CEOs Join Industry-Wide Initiative to Combat Suicide Among Workers in Construction
The establishment of the CEO Advisory Council signifies a strong commitment to bringing stakeholders together and maximizing the collective efforts of its members.
National Poll on Perceptions of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Reveals Most U.S. Adults Believe Suicide is Preventable
Nine out of 10 people in the U.S. believe that suicide can be prevented at least sometimes, showing an incredible shift in public understanding about suicide
Encuesta Nacional sobre Percepciones de la Salud Mental y la Prevención del Suicidio revela que la mayoría de los adultos estadounidenses creen que el suicidio se puede prevenir
Los grupos afectados de manera desproporcionada tienen más probabilidades de conocer a alguien que ha pensado en suicidarse, ha intentado suicidarse o se suicidó, y algunos tienen más probabilidades de comunicarse con el 988
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Announces $7.6 Million Investment in Research
uch of what is known about suicide comes from research funded by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
This Roctober, Learn More About AFSP-Funded Research
Research + October = Roctober! Interested in learning more about suicide prevention research? Check out this list of resources — including videos from top researchers — that share what we continue to learn about how to help save lives.
It's National Hispanic Heritage Month — Don't Miss These Upcoming Events
In observance of National Hispanic Heritage Month, taking place September 15 to October 15, join us for our upcoming events tailored specifically to Latinx and Hispanic communities.
Research Roundup October 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Telling My Children About My Own Childhood Suicide Loss: Their Grandfather
My father died by suicide when I was eight years old. Sharing with people how my father died is something that once seemed impossible for me to do, but has now become healing for me, as well as for my family.
Record Number of Licensure Boards and Hospitals Take Action to Prevent Suicide for the Healthcare Workforce
Like everyone, health workers deserve the right to pursue mental health care without fear of losing their job.
Choosing Self-Care During Election Season
Election season signifies a time of transition and change which can be both exciting and stressful. When you approach election season — whether it’s by actively campaigning or hiding in the woods! — practicing self-care is essential for maintaining your mental health and well-being.
Statement from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to Reporters Covering the News Regarding Jon Bon Jovi
News outlets are urged to use best practices for ethically reporting on suicide.
MITER Foundation announces partnership with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
The two organizations will collaborate to educate MITER Brands team members on common risk factors and warn signs associated with suicide, and providing guidance on how to keep themselves and others safe.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Launches Creator-Led Lifesaver Ambassadors Program
The innovative Lifesaver Ambassadors program is designed to encourage storytelling and amplify positive mental health messaging that demonstrates how to Talk Away the Dark.
AUDACY’S ANNUAL “I’M LISTENING” BROADCAST RETURNS SEPTEMBER 25
Delivering Fresh Insights, Resources and Lifesaving Conversations
AFSP Applauds New Parity Rule Enforcing Parity in Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Coverage
We commend the Biden administration for taking this important step to ensure greater equity and help prevent suicide.
Research Roundup September 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Mental Health Resources for Latinx and Hispanic Communities
Each year, National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15. In recognition of this important month, we encourage you to use and circulate the following list of national mental health and suicide prevention resources focused on supporting Latinx and Hispanic communities.
Why We Walk: Stories About Out of the Darkness Community Walks
To learn more about why people continue to join our Community Walks year after year, we encourage you to read the following stories written firsthand by AFSP volunteers, chapter staff, and employees.
Time and Distance: The Key to Firearm Suicide Prevention
When someone dies by suicide, the circumstances are complex. But something that every firearm-owning household can do is to implement a strategy for increasing the time it takes to access a firearm.
When Healing From Grief Is Stalled
Most people who are bereaved by suicide do not experience prolonged grief. When healing is stalled and grief is unrelenting, Prolonged Grief Treatment can help a person get unstuck and healthily continue on to a pathway of integrated grief in which their loss is still with them, but so is living.
Join Growing Movement to Save Lives During National Suicide Prevention Month
This September, AFSP invites everyone to learn about suicide, how to prevent it and ways to support each other.
Compassion, Clarity, and Connection: Providing Comfort and Support at the Long-Term Survivors of Suicide Loss Summit
“Compassion, clarity, and connection” are just three of the words that come to mind when reflecting on this year’s Long-Term Survivors of Suicide Loss Summit. This was AFSP’s third time presenting this unique conference designed for long-term suicide loss survivors.
'We Can Survive' returns with Justin Timberlake, NKOTB, Tate McRae, and more
Saturday, September 28 at Prudential Center in Newark, NJ
What Underlying Processes Facilitate Suicide Loss Survivor Outcomes?
Dr. Yossi Lev-Belz set out to examine the role that difficulties with mentalization may play in suicide loss survivors experiencing complicated grief and suicidal ideation.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Urges Prioritizing Youth Mental Health Efforts Following CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey
The recent findings from the CDC underscore the continuing and critical need to prioritize youth mental health and suicide prevention efforts.
Suicide Prevention Resources for Back-to-School Season
Back-to-school prep often means school supply runs and physical health check-ups, but it should also mean checking in with youth about their mental health.
Updating the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Flagship Education Program, “Talk Saves Lives”
As of August 2024, the newly revamped Talk Saves Lives program is available in all chapters across the U.S., Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico!
Research Roundup August 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
CARRIE UNDERWOOD UNITES WITH PAPA ROACH TO SING “LEAVE A LIGHT ON (TALK AWAY THE DARK),” OUT FRIDAY AUGUST 2nd
ARTISTS WILL BE DONATING ROYALTIES IN PERPETUITY TO THE AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION
Uniting the Community: Strengthening Suicide Prevention in Southwest Louisiana
Kevin Yaudes teaches undergraduate psychology and graduate counseling at McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana. After recognizing a need for suicide prevention in his community, Kevin connected with AFSP. Before he knew it, he was chairing the Southwest Louisiana Walk.
Fulfilling a Calling: Why I Advocate for Suicide Prevention in Black Communities
As an alumnus and member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. — the first international fraternal organization to be founded on a historically Black college campus — Keon has helped forge a partnership between Omega Psi Phi and AFSP, which aims to prioritize mental health and suicide prevention in Black communities.
Advocating for 988 at AFSP’s 15th Annual Advocacy Forum
From Sunday June 9th to Wednesday June 12th, AFSP hosted its 15th Annual Advocacy Forum! Together, nearly 250 AFSP Volunteer Advocates celebrated “15 years of Advocating for Suicide Prevention” and participated in educational sessions on legislation to improve mental health and save lives.
Research Roundup July 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 Statement on Firearm Violence Public Health Advisory
AFSP commends U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy for releasing a new advisory today: Firearm Violence: A Public Health Crisis in America.
As a Veteran, I Know the Importance of Suicide Prevention Efforts
A combat Veteran having served in the United States Marine Corps for nearly 14 years, Ian Perry was aware of fellow service members taking their own lives. Now, as a volunteer with AFSP's Michigan Chapter, Ian devotes much of his energy and focus to military and firearms outreach.
Actress, Suicide Prevention Advocate Ashley Judd to Speak at HMP Global’s 2024 Psych Congress National Meeting
Fireside chat with Judd and American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Christine Yu Moutier will cover mental health, grief, and loss.
As an Asian American, I Know the Impact Cultural Heritage Can Have on Mental Health
Each May, our country shines a spotlight on two important issues, through Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month. Technically, these are two separate awareness holidays. But for me, my mental health and Asian American identity feel closely intertwined.
Get in the Game: Engaging Gen Z Gamers Through Fan Favorites
This year marked an exciting collaboration between our teen and young adult mental health campaign, “Seize the Awkward,” and critically acclaimed video game FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.
Through Education, We Can Help Talk Away the Dark
Darlene Tzou first heard about AFSP from a colleague who was raising money for an Out of the Darkness Walk in memory of her son. Darlene started out as a volunteer, and now serves on the National Capital Area Chapter’s board as the Education Chair, helping to lead local suicide prevention education efforts in her area.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Celebrates 15 Years of Advocacy, Calls on Congress to Strengthen 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Volunteer Advocates from across the country will meet with over 250 Congressional Offices in Washington, D.C. at AFSP’s Advocacy Forum
Research Roundup June 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Learning More About Suicide and How to Prevent It: Reflections on the AFSP 2024 Research Award Dinner
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention recently honored its 2024 Research Award recipients at its annual Research Award Dinner on May 22 at the Conrad Hotel in New York City. Here, AFSP’s Vice President of Research, Dr. Jill Harkavy-Friedman, reflects on this special night.
Leading Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Organizations Celebrate Major Milestone for the 988 Lifeline and Crisis Response
10 states now sustainably fund the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline; groups urge others to act
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Comment on 2022 CDC WISQARS Data
A longer-term perspective is that after increasing for two decades, the rate of suicide appears to be leveling in recent years. At AFSP, any loss of life is tragic and these data strengthen our resolve to stop suicide.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Raises over $800,000 for Suicide Prevention at 35th Annual Lifesavers Gala
Jacoby Shaddix of the legendary rock band Papa Roach honored with Public Education Lifesaver Award, presented by music icon Chris Daughtry
As a Queer Person and Suicide Loss Survivor, I've Learned There's Strength in Vulnerability
I lost my mom to suicide when I was 14. Later, when I first got to college, I started to openly embrace my bisexuality. To an outside observer, these two experiences may not seem connected. But for me, the journey of coming to terms with losing my mom to suicide and of navigating my sexuality are closely linked.
I Volunteer With AFSP for My Son, Trent
Whitney Shumway's main “Why” for volunteering is to support her son Trent, who expressed suicidal feelings as early as third grade — and who now, at 15, often joins his mom in volunteering for AFSP, gaining strength through community and the incredible example set by his mother.
"Sustaining the Crisis Workforce: A National Road Map"
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is proud to support the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention in announcing the launch of the innovative Crisis Workforce Road Map, "Sustaining the Crisis Workforce.”
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Honors Leading Researchers
Recipients include pioneer of the Safety Plan Intervention, Dr. Barbara Stanley, and leading youth suicide prevention expert Dr. Jeff Bridge
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Applauds the Enactment of Sustainable Funding Legislation for 988 Behavioral Health Crisis Services in Maryland
Maryland now joins eight other states nationwide in sustainably funding 988 Lifeline services via a small monthly fee on phone bills.
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
Volunteer with AFSP
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Announces New Members to the National Board of Directors and Scientific Council in 2025
Four new members are joining the National Board of Directors, bringing the total membership to 27. Three new members joined the Scientific Council bringing that total to 17.
Study Sheds Light on Social Drivers That Increase Risk of Suicide
Yale School of Medicine and VA Connecticut Healthcare System researchers compared social determinants of health in relation to the risk of suicide, a major global public health issue and one of the leading causes of death in the United States.
Mental Health New Year's Resolutions From the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Here are some reflections from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s leadership team on their own goals for the coming year, and suggestions we might all draw inspiration from.
What I Never Got to Say: Writing (and Rewriting) My Mother’s Eulogy
As an exercise in processing my grief, I decided to write my mother a eulogy. I imagine what I would want to say to both her and others present. While these words won’t be read at a gravestone or in a church, I’ve spent hours composing them, uncovering old memories and buried feelings in the process.
Research Roundup December 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Giving Yourself the Gift of Self-care for the Holidays
While you are making your holiday gift lists this year, here are a few tips on how you can give yourself the gift of self-care this holiday season.
Promoting Safe Reporting on Suicide at the SXSW Conference: Five Recommendations for Responsible Journalism
Journalists wield significant influence and research strongly suggests that when journalists adhere to ethical reporting, like centering stories of hope and promoting mental health resources, more people are likely to seek help.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Awarded 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator
Charity Navigator awarded AFSP its highest honor: a Four-Star rating. It recognizes AFSP’s strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency.
Looking to the Sky: Processing My Father's Suicide, in My Own Time
Father’s Day has always been my least favorite holiday. I’m pretty good at burying the feelings of being left behind by my dad on the other 364 days of the year, but on this day, it’s unavoidable. This past Father's Day, though, I reached an important new milestone: I was finally able to start processing his death.
Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Resources for Indigenous Peoples
November is Native American Heritage Month. In recognition of this important month, we encourage you to use and share the following list of national mental health and suicide prevention resources focused on supporting Indigenous Peoples.
Don't Miss These Upcoming Virtual Events: Día de Esperanza (Day of Hope) and Survivor Day Live
We're just weeks away from Día de Esperanza (Day of Hope) and International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, also known as Survivor Day — taking place on Friday, November 22, and Saturday, November 23, respectively. Don't miss out on the special virtual events taking place for each event.
Research Roundup November 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 Launches Best Practices Toolkit for Workplaces Following a Death by Suicide
Establishing a set of protocols and having a plan in place before a suicide will help ensure a response that has the potential to save lives.
"These conversations are not easy, but are so necessary": The Impact of Suicide On Indigenous Peoples
In this recent video, AFSP Lifesaver Ambassador and Diné scholar charlie amáyá scott, Ph.D., calls attention to the impact of depression and suicide on Indigenous Peoples — and the power of having open, honest, and vulnerable conversations about mental health.
You Will Get Through This, I Promise: Attending My First International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day Event
Attending a Survivor Day event each year is a way to honor Dean. It is also a time to reflect on how far I have come in my grief journey, progressing from a recent loss survivor looking for answers, to an organizer who is providing comfort and care.
Top Construction CEOs Join Industry-Wide Initiative to Combat Suicide Among Workers in Construction
The establishment of the CEO Advisory Council signifies a strong commitment to bringing stakeholders together and maximizing the collective efforts of its members.
National Poll on Perceptions of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Reveals Most U.S. Adults Believe Suicide is Preventable
Nine out of 10 people in the U.S. believe that suicide can be prevented at least sometimes, showing an incredible shift in public understanding about suicide
Encuesta Nacional sobre Percepciones de la Salud Mental y la Prevención del Suicidio revela que la mayoría de los adultos estadounidenses creen que el suicidio se puede prevenir
Los grupos afectados de manera desproporcionada tienen más probabilidades de conocer a alguien que ha pensado en suicidarse, ha intentado suicidarse o se suicidó, y algunos tienen más probabilidades de comunicarse con el 988
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Announces $7.6 Million Investment in Research
uch of what is known about suicide comes from research funded by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
This Roctober, Learn More About AFSP-Funded Research
Research + October = Roctober! Interested in learning more about suicide prevention research? Check out this list of resources — including videos from top researchers — that share what we continue to learn about how to help save lives.
It's National Hispanic Heritage Month — Don't Miss These Upcoming Events
In observance of National Hispanic Heritage Month, taking place September 15 to October 15, join us for our upcoming events tailored specifically to Latinx and Hispanic communities.
Research Roundup October 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Telling My Children About My Own Childhood Suicide Loss: Their Grandfather
My father died by suicide when I was eight years old. Sharing with people how my father died is something that once seemed impossible for me to do, but has now become healing for me, as well as for my family.
Record Number of Licensure Boards and Hospitals Take Action to Prevent Suicide for the Healthcare Workforce
Like everyone, health workers deserve the right to pursue mental health care without fear of losing their job.
Choosing Self-Care During Election Season
Election season signifies a time of transition and change which can be both exciting and stressful. When you approach election season — whether it’s by actively campaigning or hiding in the woods! — practicing self-care is essential for maintaining your mental health and well-being.
Statement from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to Reporters Covering the News Regarding Jon Bon Jovi
News outlets are urged to use best practices for ethically reporting on suicide.
MITER Foundation announces partnership with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
The two organizations will collaborate to educate MITER Brands team members on common risk factors and warn signs associated with suicide, and providing guidance on how to keep themselves and others safe.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Launches Creator-Led Lifesaver Ambassadors Program
The innovative Lifesaver Ambassadors program is designed to encourage storytelling and amplify positive mental health messaging that demonstrates how to Talk Away the Dark.
AUDACY’S ANNUAL “I’M LISTENING” BROADCAST RETURNS SEPTEMBER 25
Delivering Fresh Insights, Resources and Lifesaving Conversations
AFSP Applauds New Parity Rule Enforcing Parity in Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Coverage
We commend the Biden administration for taking this important step to ensure greater equity and help prevent suicide.
Research Roundup September 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Mental Health Resources for Latinx and Hispanic Communities
Each year, National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15. In recognition of this important month, we encourage you to use and circulate the following list of national mental health and suicide prevention resources focused on supporting Latinx and Hispanic communities.
Why We Walk: Stories About Out of the Darkness Community Walks
To learn more about why people continue to join our Community Walks year after year, we encourage you to read the following stories written firsthand by AFSP volunteers, chapter staff, and employees.
Time and Distance: The Key to Firearm Suicide Prevention
When someone dies by suicide, the circumstances are complex. But something that every firearm-owning household can do is to implement a strategy for increasing the time it takes to access a firearm.
When Healing From Grief Is Stalled
Most people who are bereaved by suicide do not experience prolonged grief. When healing is stalled and grief is unrelenting, Prolonged Grief Treatment can help a person get unstuck and healthily continue on to a pathway of integrated grief in which their loss is still with them, but so is living.
Join Growing Movement to Save Lives During National Suicide Prevention Month
This September, AFSP invites everyone to learn about suicide, how to prevent it and ways to support each other.
Compassion, Clarity, and Connection: Providing Comfort and Support at the Long-Term Survivors of Suicide Loss Summit
“Compassion, clarity, and connection” are just three of the words that come to mind when reflecting on this year’s Long-Term Survivors of Suicide Loss Summit. This was AFSP’s third time presenting this unique conference designed for long-term suicide loss survivors.
'We Can Survive' returns with Justin Timberlake, NKOTB, Tate McRae, and more
Saturday, September 28 at Prudential Center in Newark, NJ
What Underlying Processes Facilitate Suicide Loss Survivor Outcomes?
Dr. Yossi Lev-Belz set out to examine the role that difficulties with mentalization may play in suicide loss survivors experiencing complicated grief and suicidal ideation.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Urges Prioritizing Youth Mental Health Efforts Following CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey
The recent findings from the CDC underscore the continuing and critical need to prioritize youth mental health and suicide prevention efforts.
Suicide Prevention Resources for Back-to-School Season
Back-to-school prep often means school supply runs and physical health check-ups, but it should also mean checking in with youth about their mental health.
Updating the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Flagship Education Program, “Talk Saves Lives”
As of August 2024, the newly revamped Talk Saves Lives program is available in all chapters across the U.S., Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico!
Research Roundup August 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
CARRIE UNDERWOOD UNITES WITH PAPA ROACH TO SING “LEAVE A LIGHT ON (TALK AWAY THE DARK),” OUT FRIDAY AUGUST 2nd
ARTISTS WILL BE DONATING ROYALTIES IN PERPETUITY TO THE AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION
Uniting the Community: Strengthening Suicide Prevention in Southwest Louisiana
Kevin Yaudes teaches undergraduate psychology and graduate counseling at McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana. After recognizing a need for suicide prevention in his community, Kevin connected with AFSP. Before he knew it, he was chairing the Southwest Louisiana Walk.
Fulfilling a Calling: Why I Advocate for Suicide Prevention in Black Communities
As an alumnus and member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. — the first international fraternal organization to be founded on a historically Black college campus — Keon has helped forge a partnership between Omega Psi Phi and AFSP, which aims to prioritize mental health and suicide prevention in Black communities.
Advocating for 988 at AFSP’s 15th Annual Advocacy Forum
From Sunday June 9th to Wednesday June 12th, AFSP hosted its 15th Annual Advocacy Forum! Together, nearly 250 AFSP Volunteer Advocates celebrated “15 years of Advocating for Suicide Prevention” and participated in educational sessions on legislation to improve mental health and save lives.
Research Roundup July 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 Statement on Firearm Violence Public Health Advisory
AFSP commends U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy for releasing a new advisory today: Firearm Violence: A Public Health Crisis in America.
As a Veteran, I Know the Importance of Suicide Prevention Efforts
A combat Veteran having served in the United States Marine Corps for nearly 14 years, Ian Perry was aware of fellow service members taking their own lives. Now, as a volunteer with AFSP's Michigan Chapter, Ian devotes much of his energy and focus to military and firearms outreach.
Actress, Suicide Prevention Advocate Ashley Judd to Speak at HMP Global’s 2024 Psych Congress National Meeting
Fireside chat with Judd and American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Christine Yu Moutier will cover mental health, grief, and loss.
As an Asian American, I Know the Impact Cultural Heritage Can Have on Mental Health
Each May, our country shines a spotlight on two important issues, through Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month. Technically, these are two separate awareness holidays. But for me, my mental health and Asian American identity feel closely intertwined.
Get in the Game: Engaging Gen Z Gamers Through Fan Favorites
This year marked an exciting collaboration between our teen and young adult mental health campaign, “Seize the Awkward,” and critically acclaimed video game FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.
Through Education, We Can Help Talk Away the Dark
Darlene Tzou first heard about AFSP from a colleague who was raising money for an Out of the Darkness Walk in memory of her son. Darlene started out as a volunteer, and now serves on the National Capital Area Chapter’s board as the Education Chair, helping to lead local suicide prevention education efforts in her area.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Celebrates 15 Years of Advocacy, Calls on Congress to Strengthen 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Volunteer Advocates from across the country will meet with over 250 Congressional Offices in Washington, D.C. at AFSP’s Advocacy Forum
Research Roundup June 2024: Recently Published Findings From AFSP-Funded Studies
The Research Roundup is a regular update of recently published findings in suicide prevention research.
Learning More About Suicide and How to Prevent It: Reflections on the AFSP 2024 Research Award Dinner
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention recently honored its 2024 Research Award recipients at its annual Research Award Dinner on May 22 at the Conrad Hotel in New York City. Here, AFSP’s Vice President of Research, Dr. Jill Harkavy-Friedman, reflects on this special night.
Leading Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Organizations Celebrate Major Milestone for the 988 Lifeline and Crisis Response
10 states now sustainably fund the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline; groups urge others to act
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Comment on 2022 CDC WISQARS Data
A longer-term perspective is that after increasing for two decades, the rate of suicide appears to be leveling in recent years. At AFSP, any loss of life is tragic and these data strengthen our resolve to stop suicide.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Raises over $800,000 for Suicide Prevention at 35th Annual Lifesavers Gala
Jacoby Shaddix of the legendary rock band Papa Roach honored with Public Education Lifesaver Award, presented by music icon Chris Daughtry
As a Queer Person and Suicide Loss Survivor, I've Learned There's Strength in Vulnerability
I lost my mom to suicide when I was 14. Later, when I first got to college, I started to openly embrace my bisexuality. To an outside observer, these two experiences may not seem connected. But for me, the journey of coming to terms with losing my mom to suicide and of navigating my sexuality are closely linked.
I Volunteer With AFSP for My Son, Trent
Whitney Shumway's main “Why” for volunteering is to support her son Trent, who expressed suicidal feelings as early as third grade — and who now, at 15, often joins his mom in volunteering for AFSP, gaining strength through community and the incredible example set by his mother.
"Sustaining the Crisis Workforce: A National Road Map"
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is proud to support the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention in announcing the launch of the innovative Crisis Workforce Road Map, "Sustaining the Crisis Workforce.”
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Honors Leading Researchers
Recipients include pioneer of the Safety Plan Intervention, Dr. Barbara Stanley, and leading youth suicide prevention expert Dr. Jeff Bridge
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Applauds the Enactment of Sustainable Funding Legislation for 988 Behavioral Health Crisis Services in Maryland
Maryland now joins eight other states nationwide in sustainably funding 988 Lifeline services via a small monthly fee on phone bills.
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