Reporting on suicide prevention
The latest statistics on suicide and guidance for journalists on how to report safely and accurately about suicide.
Press contact
Journalists looking to speak with an expert or with questions for their stories should fill out this form or call (917) 439-2946.
If you are not a journalist but have a question for AFSP, please call (212) 363-3500.
Looking for something?
Press Releases
STATEMENT ON STRATEGY TO REDUCING SUICIDE BY FIREARMS
We established the goal to reduce the annual suicide rate by 20% by 2025 to drive urgency and action that saves lives.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Announces $8.5 Million Investment in Research Funding for Genetics, Neurobiology, Therapies, Interventions and More
AFSP announced 36 new research grants totaling $8.5 million, making the organization’s total research investment in FY 2026 more than $30 million.
LifeStance Health Foundation Partners with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to Advance Mental Health Research
LifeStance Health Foundation, an organization endowed by LifeStance that funds interventional research to address the biggest areas of opportunity in mental health, today announced a $100,000 grant to American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).
Lola Young Joins Audacy's We Can Survive Lineup Starring Ed Sheeran, Goo Goo Dolls, Alex Warren and Shaboozey
Audacy’s sold-out 12th annual We Can Survive concert, presented by VEG, announces singer Lola Young will join Ed Sheeran, Goo Goo Dolls, Audacy LAUNCH artist Alex Warren and Shaboozey for its annual night of music supporting the company’s I'm Listening mental health initiative.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Reaches Over 188,000 Construction Workers with Hard Hat Courage Initiative
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) today announced that its Hard Hat Courage initiative has reached more than 188,000 craft and construction industry professionals with its suicide prevention education and awareness campaign since May 2025.
AFSP Offers Resources and Learning to Fight Suicide in Hispanic & Latine Communities this Hispanic Heritage Month
This Hispanic Heritage Month the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is encouraging Hispanic and Latine communities to support those who are struggling with their mental health through events and resources.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Earns Prestigious Recognition from Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) for Talk Saves Lives Program
AFSP’s flagship education program, Talk Saves Lives: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention (TSL), recently earned recognition from the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) on its Best Practices Registry (BPR).
AFSP Encourages Looking Out for Each Other for National Suicide Prevention Month By Walking and More
September is National Suicide Prevention Month and this year the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is underscoring looking out for each other by encouraging the public to join one of the hundreds of community Out of the Darkness Walks starting in September and going through the fall.
Audacy’s Annual “I’m Listening” Broadcast Returns This September
Audacy’s initiative, “I’m Listening,” continues to lead the national conversation on mental health with its annual broadcast special. In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10 and National Suicide Prevention Month, all Audacy stations nationwide will air the “I’m Listening” broadcast that week.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Offers New Community-Based Program Supporting People Who Have Experienced a Loss to Suicide
Caring Communities: Guidance for Supporting Survivors of Suicide Loss is a new one-hour presentation, available in-person or virtually, designed to provide participants (age 18+) with information, resources, and practical guidance on how to support someone who has experienced a recent loss to suicide.
Ending the Federal LGBTQ+ Suicide Prevention Line is a Public Health Failure
Last month, the federal government announced it would eliminate the national suicide prevention hotline’s specialized services for LGBTQ+ callers — a decision that pulls vital support away from some of the most at-risk young people in America.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Denounces Harmful Medicaid Cuts That Undermine Suicide Prevention Efforts
Today, the United States Congress voted to strip millions of Americans of their health insurance amid an ongoing national mental health emergency at a time when rates of depression, anxiety, addiction and suicidal crises are high.
Protect Medicaid for People with Mental Health Conditions and Substance Use Disorders
We continue to be deeply concerned that cutting Medicaid funding or benefits, as well as imposing burdensome eligibility and work requirements, would disproportionately harm people with mental health (MH) conditions and substance use disorders (SUD).
Four Leading Advocacy Organizations Call on House to Not Pass Reconciliation Bill, Medicaid Cuts Would Be “Devastating” for Mental Health
Joint Statement by American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Inseparable, Mental Health America, National Alliance on Mental Illness
AFSP Launches Spanish Website to Deepen Understanding, Resources, and Support to Spanish-Speaking Populations
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) has launched a new Spanish-language website at es.afsp.org in anticipation of National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month celebrated in July.
AFSP Urges Congress to Reconsider Cuts to Critical Life-Saving Service for LGBTQ+ Youth
AFSP stands with all those in the mental health community strongly urging Congress to reverse this decision and continue funding these critical, life-saving services for LGBTQ+ youth within the 988 Lifeline.
Victor R. Armstrong Sr., MSW, to Receive NASW National Social Worker of the Year Award
NASW Member and well-known suicide prevention advocate Victor R. Amstrong, Sr., MSW, has been selected as the 2025 National Social Worker of the Year by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).
AFSP Mobilizes for Suicide Prevention, Calls on Congress for Urgent Action to Address Veteran and Health Care Worker Suicide
Nearly 250 Volunteer Advocates from across the country will gather at the nation’s capital to learn about and advocate for lifesaving suicide prevention and mental health policies from June 22-25, 2025, for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Annual Advocacy Forum.
Five Leading Advocacy Organizations Condemn Medicaid Cuts, Urge Senate to Safeguard Access to Mental Health Care and Substance Use Treatment
Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to strip millions of Americans of their health insurance amid an ongoing national mental health emergency.
Letter From the Ceo Alliance for Mental Health to Congress
Our nation stands at a critical juncture and a potential tipping point. We have the opportunity to make strategic decisions and create a future-ready system that increases accessibility, affordability, and accountability.
CONEXPO-CON/AGG and the Utility Expo Partner with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to Promote Mental Health Awareness Across the Construction Industry
CONEXPO-CON/AGG and The Utility Expo, the premier trade shows for the construction and utility sectors, are proud to announce a new partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).
AFSP Calls for More Walkers to its Overnight Walk for Suicide Prevention to Raise $3.5 Million Goal to #StopSuicide
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), a leading suicide prevention organization, is hosting the 30th Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk, its flagship fundraising event, on June 21, 2025, in New York City.
AFSP Encourages Building Resilience This Mental Health Awareness Month
With May being Mental Health Awareness Month, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is encouraging people to build mental health resilience in communities nationwide by going beyond the basics of self-care.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Hosts 36th Annual Lifesavers Gala
On May 1, 2025, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) will hold its 36th annual Lifesaver’s Gala at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Presents Prestigious Recognition to Pioneering and Innovative Researchers
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), the largest private funder of suicide prevention research globally, will honor its 2025 Research Award recipients at its annual awards event on April 30 in New York City.
Trump Administration Proposes Defunding Suicide Lifeline for LGBTQ+ Youth Beginning October 2025
A leaked budget draft revealed the federal government has proposed to eliminate all funding for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services – a federal program that provides emergency crisis support to LGBTQ+ youth considering suicide – effective October 1, 2025.
AFSP Supports Comprehensive Approach to Suicide Prevention in FY 26 Federal Funding Priorities
To continue a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention, we request support for key initiatives currently within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health, and the Health Resources and Services Administration.
AFSP Celebrates National Volunteer Week by Shining Light on Volunteers at the Forefront of Suicide Prevention Nationwide
This National Volunteer Week (April 20-26), the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) celebrates the unwavering contributions of its national volunteer network, with 73 chapters across the country, including in Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico.
Statement from Leading Mental Health and Substance Use Organizations on Drastic HHS Staffing Reductions
Our nation continues to face ongoing mental health, overdose, and suicide crises. As a country, we must ensure the functions of HHS and its agencies are able to continue their missions unimpeded to support the mental health of our communities.
Nation’s Mental Health Leaders Express Concern About Proposed Cuts to SAMHSA
The CEO Alliance for Mental Health is deeply concerned about potential cuts to SAMHSA that would interrupt services for people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders – cuts that have the potential to cause widespread harm to our communities.
Construction CEOs Set Agenda to Tackle Suicide in Construction Industry
Top executives from America's largest construction companies and unions hosted the inaugural CEO Advisory Council meeting focused on preventing suicides in the construction industry.
Join the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in NYC for its 30th Overnight Walk
The Overnight fosters a much-needed community for all of those on a journey to find healing, solidarity and understanding. Walkers form lifelong friendships and discover new ways to continue to contribute to this important cause, including volunteering with their local AFSP Chapters.
AFSP Launches Toolkit for Firearms Instructors Aimed at Suicide Prevention
AFSP calls firearms instructors to join lifesaving efforts through firearms education and safety.
Voodoo Doughnut Announces “Blueberry Lemon Fritter” to Support American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Voodoo Doughnut, the trailblazing purveyor of unique and handcrafted doughnuts, is proud to continue its partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), one of the leading research and prevention organizations in the U.S.
AFSP’s Advocacy Action Days: Advocates Urge State Support for Suicide Prevention Legislation, Encourage Allies to Join
In 2025, AFSP’s Advocacy Action Day events include support for firearms suicide prevention, increased access to care and services, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and supporting underserved and disproportionately impacted communities, including youth and LGBTQ populations.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.