Staying True to AFSP’s Mission

At the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, we are in the business of saving lives, and I’m hopeful about the progress we will make going forward. However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t concerns. Since the start of 2025, we’ve seen growing uncertainty surrounding federal policies and spending that could impact suicide and its prevention, and while the political landscape may feel uncertain, what remains unwavering is our dedication to the communities we serve.  

At AFSP, we remain focused on addressing the mental health and suicide prevention needs of everyone because it affects all of us. We know through research that suicide affects people of all ages, every race and ethnic group, socio-economic background, religion, political affiliation, sexual orientation, and gender identity. And we remain dedicated to working with populations that are disproportionately affected by suicide, from LGBTQ+ youth, to white males in rural communities, to youth of color, to veterans, first responders and more. AFSP’s mission demands we approach the prevention of suicide by focusing on a wide diversity of populations.

Staying true to AFSP’s mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide has never been more important. Right now, we are finalizing a new strategic plan that will guide our work through 2028. I’m optimistic about the plan as it incorporates the strategies and actions we believe will have the greatest impact in the years ahead.

Our strategic plan calls for evidence-informed approaches to the problem of suicide. This includes investing in scientific research that will provide answers on how to best prevent this tragic loss of life. We are concerned that any reduction in federal funding of suicide prevention research or in CDC’s surveillance data on suicide would negatively impact AFSP’s work, and we are taking steps to advocate for continued federal support of research and data into suicide and its prevention.

AFSP’s Public Policy Priorities call for greater access to affordable mental health care and resources. Of paramount importance is federal funding for 988 and crisis services for those in emotional distress or immediate danger of taking their life. AFSP will continue to advocate for federal support of mental health parity laws and to ensure that Medicaid continues to provide access to mental health services for those who wouldn’t be able to afford care without it.

During this period of reductions in federal spending, AFSP will advocate for these and other needed federal programs that have proven outcomes such as continuation of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Garrett Lee Smith Youth Suicide Prevention grants and CDC’s Comprehensive Suicide Prevention Program. Learn more about AFSP’s Public Policy Priorities here.

At AFSP, our Core Values empower us to achieve our mission while fostering a culture of care, collaboration, inclusion and accountability, and they inform the way we work with one another, volunteers and staff, and our for-profit, governmental, not-for-profit and community partners.

It’s important in times like these that we remain steadfast in our determination to ensure mental health and suicide prevention is prioritized for all. The lifesaving work we do connects us, and we are stronger together through our shared dedication to the cause of suicide prevention.