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.
After the form has been submitted and if you have further questions, contact: 929-625-5884 or 917-439-2946.
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Safe reporting guidelines for media
Access safe reporting tips and educational information to increase help-seeking and prevent suicide through news reporting.
Safe Reporting Saves Lives
AFSP offers a training session on safe reporting for reporters. To bring this free thirty minute training to your newsroom, contact your local AFSP chapter or view our Program Calendar.
Suicide statistics and fact sheets
Key statistics about suicide in the U.S with up-to-date fact sheets on suicide statistics in all 50 states.
About AFSP
Learn about the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and our mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.
Three-Year Strategic Plan
The three-year strategic plan, covering the 2023 – 2025 fiscal years, articulates five goals and key strategies that we will accomplish over the course of this plan.
Real Stories
The official blog of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Speaking out about suicide
Provides essential tips on how those impacted by suicide can share their story safely to best let others know they are not alone, and avoid the risk of contagion.
Sharing the AFSP story
Messaging document that includes AFSP’s mission, key messages, and positioning statement.
Brand guidelines
Guidelines for media to represent the AFSP brand.
AFSP Annual Report
View a detailed report of AFSP's programs, impact, and financial performance over the last fiscal year.
Press Releases
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.
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.
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.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Provides Resources to Talk Away the Dark During National Suicide Prevention Month and Beyond
AFSP is empowering the public by recommending key actions that everyone can take to help save lives in their communities.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Comment in Response to the 2022 CDC Provisional Data
We remain hopeful that our research, public education and advocacy efforts – along with an increased national dialogue about mental health and what leads to suicide – continue to make a difference in addressing this preventable public health issue.
AUDACY’S WE CAN SURVIVE MOVES TO NEW YORK CITY AREA FOR 10TH ANNIVERSARY
Maroon 5, OneRepublic, Kelly Clarkson and More to Rock Prudential Center on October 14
Charity Navigator Awards American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Prestigious 4-Star Rating
“AFSP’s commitment to sound financial management is core to our work to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide,” said AFSP CEO Robert Gebbia.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Welcomes Victor Armstrong as First Vice President for Health Equity and Engagement
Armstrong brings over 30 years of experience in human services to the role, and notably a dedication to building and strengthening community resources to serve individuals who have been historically marginalized.
HMP Global’s Psych Congress expands partnership with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) for life-saving mental health education
AFSP hosts educational sessions, community walk, keynote address part of strategic collaboration with nation’s premier conference for mental health professionals.
Statement from the CEO Alliance on Biden Administration’s Push to Improve Parity
The Biden Administration’s new proposal would ensure that people with mental health and substance use conditions do not face arbitrary barriers to receiving care.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Applauds Biden-Harris Administration for Announced Rules to Strengthen Parity Enforcement
“These proposed rules will help advance the nationwide effort to prevent suicide, and we urge their swift dissemination and adoption,"said AFSP CEO Robert Gebbia
OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY & AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION PARTNER TO FIGHT SUICIDE
"Through this partnership, we will collaborate to prioritize mental health and suicide prevention in Black communities nationally and at a grassroots level through our collective chapters,” said AFSP CEO Robert Gebbia.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Raises Over $620,000 for Suicide Prevention at 34th Annual Lifesavers Gala
Donations fund lifesaving suicide prevention research, education, advocacy efforts
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention National Advocacy Forum Unites Advocates to Save Lives through Policy Change
The 14th Annual Advocacy Forum will take place in Washington, DC from June 25 to the 28. Over 200 Volunteer Advocates from across the country will encourage legislators to prioritize suicide prevention and mental health policies that can save lives.
NAMI & AFSP Celebrate 17 Congressional Leaders with ‘988 Crisis Response Champion Award’
Recipients Recognized by Top Mental Health Organizations for Work Creating, Implementing and Supporting 988 and Crisis Response Services
Join the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention for the 2023 Overnight Walk on June 3 in D.C.!
The Overnight is the largest single annual fundraising event held by AFSP and a powerful opportunity for suicide prevention advocates to raise awareness for suicide prevention and connect with a community that understands.
¡Participa junto a la American Foundation for Suicide Prevention en la caminata nocturna del Overnight 2023 el 3 de junio en D.C.!
El Overnight es el mayor evento anual de recaudación de fondos que realiza AFSP y una gran oportunidad para que los defensores de la prevención del suicidio creen conciencia sobre este tema y se conecten con una comunidad afín.
AFSP Announces New “Talk Away the Dark” Campaign to Save Lives through Brave Conversations about Suicide
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), the nation’s leading suicide prevention organization, is launching a powerful year-long campaign, “Talk Away the Dark,” to prompt direct conversations about suicide in order to save lives.
AFSP lanza nueva campaña ‘Talk Away the Dark’ para salvar vidas a través de valientes conversaciones sobre el suicidio
La American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP, por sus siglas en inglés), una organización lider en el país para la prevención del suicidio, lanzó hoy una poderosa campaña “Talk Away the Dark” (“Habla para ahuyentar la obscuridad”) para promover conversaciones directas sobre el suicidio que pueden salvar vidas.
Leading researchers call for action to end mental health related deaths
A new paper published in the Lancet Psychiatry calls for radical action to reduce mortality rates of people with mental illness. It was written by 40 global experts, including AFSP's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Christine Yu Moutier.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to Honor Outstanding Researchers
“With suicide prevention in the forefront as a public health imperative, highlighting the contributions of researchers who have played pivotal roles in suicide prevention is essential,” says Dr. Jill Harkavy-Freidman the senior vice president of research at AFSP.
Recent Legislation Targeting the Rights of Trans Individuals Deepens Concerns Around the Mental Health of LGBTQ Communities: Leading suicide prevention organization strongly opposes bills that can harm the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTQ people
Leading suicide prevention organization strongly opposes bills that can harm the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTQ people
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Stronger Communities Conferences Gather Leading Experts to Discuss Suicide Prevention in the LGBTQ Community
Full-day conferences to raise awareness about LGBTQ suicide risk; support research and strategies for LGBTQ suicide prevention in local communities
VITAL WorkLife Launches American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Interactive Screening Program
ISP is an evidence-based, online screening program that provides a safe and secure method for individuals to anonymously connect to professional support before crises emerge
Virginian Ray Paul Becomes Chair of National Board of Directors at American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Paul will oversee the efforts of AFSP’s 29-member Board and the implementation of the organization’s bold new strategic plan. Paul has served as an AFSP volunteer for over a decade.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Celebrates National Volunteer Week
During National Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 16-22), the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) recognizes the incredible impact its volunteers contribute to suicide prevention across the country.
Moxie Partners with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Today Moxie Pest Control corporate group announced a $100,000 contribution to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
Can virtual reality be used to reduce suicide in young people? Newly announced research aims to find out.
MQ Mental Health Research and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Fund Cutting-Edge Research
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Applauds President Biden on the Inclusion of Critical Suicide Prevention and Crisis Care Funding in the FY 2024 Budget Proposal
AFSP commends the Administration for continuing to invest in the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and behavioral health crisis services, including providing $836 million for expanding and sustaining the country’s crisis care continuum.
TriNet Announces Partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
AFSP is thrilled to be partnering with TriNet to offer our life-saving educational materials to their broad network of employees and customers across the country.
Shinedown Partners With The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention To Donate $1 From Every Ticket Sold To Their Upcoming ‘ The Revolutions Live’ Tour Kicking Off April 3rd
Multi-platinum, chart-topping band Shinedown has announced that they are partnering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Soul Shop™ for Black Churches Initiative Honored by The Anthem Awards
“We’re honored to be recognized for the work we’ve done alongside Soul Shop to address the inequities that exist for members of the Black community who are struggling or impacted by a suicide loss,” said AFSP Chief Executive Officer Robert Gebbia.
AFSP Senior Vice President of Research, Jill Harkavy-Friedman, Ph.D., Receives Prestigious 2023 AAAS Fellow Appointment
“I am honored to receive acknowledgment for my life's work from AAAS, and, more importantly, to see suicide prevention and removal of stigma related to mental illness highlighted as important areas of science,” said Harkavy-Friedman.
The CDC's 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey Signals a Call to Address the Growing Mental Health Crisis Among Teens
Given the recent findings from the CDC, AFSP acknowledges that there is significant work to be done in preventing suicide among youth and is committed to these efforts.
2021 CDC Suicide Death Data Intensifies the Call for Continued Suicide Prevention Efforts
The new data from the CDC strengthens our drive to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide through advancing scientific research, educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention, and advocating for public policies that support more scalable and customized prevention strategies.
Nuevo informe sobre muertes por suicidio en el 2021 del CDC intensifican el llamado para continuar con los esfuerzos para prevenir el suicidio
En AFSP nos entristece y decepciona el aumento de las muertes y de los índices de suicidio y consideramos que incluso una muerte por suicidio es demasiado.
Statement from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention on the Tragic Murder of Tyre Nichols
On the heels of released reports and bodycam footage showing the events that led to the death of Tyre Nichols, we are incredibly saddened by yet another tragic act of violence against the Black community, an act that is the result of police brutality.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Appoints New Members to its National Board of Directors
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is pleased to announce the appointment of new members to its National Board of Directors as well as the appointment of current members to new roles.
Join the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention for the 2023 Overnight Walk on June 3 in D.C.!
The Overnight is the largest annual fundraising event held by AFSP and a powerful opportunity for suicide prevention advocates to raise both funds and awareness to change the conversation about mental health and suicide.
Natasha King Joins American Foundation for Suicide Prevention as First Executive Vice President and Chief People, Culture and Diversity Officer During Time of Expansion
King brings 25 years of experience working for mission-based organizations. In the new executive leadership role, King oversees the organization's human resources plans focusing on staff and organizational culture growth.
AFSP Commends Congress on Introduction of Omnibus Spending Package that Prioritizes Suicide Prevention and Mental Health
AFSP commends Congressional leaders for collaborating on a bipartisan FY23 spending package that prioritizes suicide prevention programs and mental health supports for all Americans.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Recognized International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day On November 19, Supported 271 Events Worldwide
Over 6,100 people gathered at events across the globe recognizing International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day (ISOSLD)
National Suicide Prevention Award Honors Leaders of First Known Trial Showing that Non-Medical Peers Can Make a Difference in Safety Planning for Patients at Risk of Suicide
This year’s award honors the leaders of the first pilot of a peer-delivered suicide safety planning program in the emergency department.
Ad Council Announces $65 Million Multi-Year Mental Health Initiative
Study Released Today Finds Half of Americans Cite Having a Mental Health Condition and Only About Half are Getting Help or Treatment. New effort will unite leading brands, marketers, media companies and non-profits to address unprecedented U.S. mental health crisis.
New Mental Health PSA from Seize the Awkward Encourages Young Adults to Say "We Can Talk About It"
Amid rising suicide rates among young adults, the campaign from AFSP, The JED Foundation and the Ad Council provides resources to start conversations around mental health, with an emphasis on reaching Black and Hispanic/Latine youth
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Announces Annual Research Grants Totaling Over $8 Million
Organization is the largest private funder of suicide research globally
ALANIS MORISSETTE, HALSEY, WEEZER, ONEREPUBLIC, GARBAGE AND TATE MCRAE HEADLINE AUDACY’S “WE CAN SURVIVE” CONCERT IN HOLLYWOOD
Ninth Annual Benefit Event Raised Over $750,000 for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Deloitte and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Convene Federal Executive Panel to Discuss Government-Wide Approaches to Reducing Veteran Suicide
Deloitte and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention will convene a diverse group of government leaders to discuss ongoing federal efforts to reduce Veterans’ suicide risk, with a particular focus on women, rural, and Native American/Alaska Native/Native Hawaiian Veterans.
Letter to United States Preventive Services Taskforce on Adult Suicide Screening
We believe there is consensus amongst the leading suicide prevention organizations for the importance of moving forward with routine or indicated screening.
NAMI Honors Christine Yu Moutier, M.D., with Annual Scientific Research Award
During her tenure at AFSP, Moutier has been tirelessly advocating for culture change around suicide prevention at the national level, briefing congressional committees, educating major media outlets and making the most of every opportunity to represent the latest science and those with lived experience.
New Perception Poll Shows Adults in the U.S. See Mental Health and Suicide as High Priority Issues, and Still Face Barriers to Seeking Help
According to a newly released public perception poll, the majority of adults in the U.S. (94%) see suicide as a preventable public health issue and 83% say they would be interested in learning how they might be able to play a role in helping someone who may be suicidal.
New Provisional CDC Suicide Death Data Is a Call to Action to Double Down on Suicide Prevention Efforts
This CDC provisional suicide data invigorates our resolve to continue fighting so that we can see a day when suicide does not exist. Despite the data indicating an increase in suicide deaths in 2021, we remain hopeful that our public education and advocacy efforts are making a difference.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention y la Asociación Nacional Latina de Salud Mental lanzan un recurso de prevención del suicidio para comunidades latinx e hispanas a nivel nacional
La American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) y la Asociación Nacional Latina de Salud Mental (NLBHA) están lanzando un recurso necesario para educación sobre la salud mental y concientización de la prevención del suicidio dirigido a comunidades de herencia hispana.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and National Latino Behavioral Association Launch a Suicide Prevention Resource for Latinx and Hispanic Communities
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and the National Latino Behavioral Health Association (NLBHA) are launching a needed resource for mental health and suicide prevention awareness education for communities of Hispanic heritage.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Forms New Chapter in West Texas
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), the nation’s largest suicide prevention organization, is thrilled to announce the formation of its new West Texas chapter, bringing the total number of AFSP chapters to 74 nationwide.
Audacy's Flagship Mental Health Program “I’m Listening” Delivers More Conversations, Resources and Pathways to Help Over 200 Million Listeners Know That 'It's Okay to Not Be Okay’
Partnering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Numerous Events Taking Place to Engage Listeners Include Broadcast Special “I’m Listening,” Co-Hosted by Carson Daly and Dr. Alfiee M. Breland-Noble, and Star-Studded Hollywood Concert, We Can Survive
USC Quarterback Caleb Williams Teams Up with National “Seize the Awkward” Campaign to Support Young Adults’ Mental Health
Today, the Seize the Awkward campaign released a new public service advertisement (PSA) featuring star quarterback Caleb Williams encouraging young people to check in with their peers and have open conversations about their mental health.
OSHA, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention form alliance to promote workplace mental health, suicide prevention awareness
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) signed an alliance agreement on Sept. 7, 2022, to promote workplace mental health and suicide prevention awareness.
The Role of HR and Employment Law in Workplace Suicide Prevention: New Report Addresses Concerns and Provides Recommendations
Today, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and United Suicide Survivors International launch a collaborative white paper that acknowledges the challenges employers face and offers actionable recommendations.
Facing Suicide, A Powerful and Timely New Documentary From Twin Cities PBS, Premieres Nationwide September 13, Providing Crucial Information, Resources and Hope in the Face of America’s Suicide Crisis
Facing Suicide, a new documentary and impact campaign from Twin Cities PBS, explores the stories of Americans impacted by suicide, and journeys to the frontlines of medical and scientific research to meet those who are working to help people at risk.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Launches Soul Shop™ for Black Churches to Support Faith-Based Black Communities with Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Training
AFSP is offering Soul ShopTM for Black Churches, a new training to help faith leaders, including church staff, pastors, faith-based clinicians and other lay leaders in Black and African-American churches minister to those in their congregations who may be struggling or who have been impacted by suicide.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Commends Senate Committee for Investments in Suicide Prevention and Mental Health
AFSP commends the Senate Appropriations Committee on release of the fiscal year 2023 (FY23) Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies funding bill and thanks Chairman Patrick Leahy for his leadership and commitment to mental health.