American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

It's time we talk away the dark. Suicide is a topic that hides in the shadows. All too often it goes unaddressed, even when we may sense someone is struggling. It’s time we shed some light on this leading cause of death. In our brand new national public service announcement, we highlight some of the common warning signs for suicide and encourage you to start an open and honest conversation with someone you care about, and connect those at risk to help. Learn more at https://lnkd.in/eRFw8efK. #TalkAwayTheDark #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #StopSuicide

While the COVID-19 pandemic impacted everyone, research shows that some populations were affected differently than others. Dr. Maggie Sugg found unique mental health challenges faced by frontline and essential workers. When examining data from people who contacted the Crisis Text Line during the pandemic, Dr. Sugg found that essential workers seeking help were more likely to report suicidal thoughts than non-essential workers. Additionally, children of essential workers aged 13 and under also reported significant stress, including suicidal thoughts. These findings show us that supportive interventions and mental health resources are needed, not only for frontline essential workers, but for their children, too. Learn more #Science2StopSuicide:

Election season signifies a time of transition and change which can be both exciting and stressful. Here are some things to keep in mind as we move through this period. ?? The election might make you feel: - Scared for yourself and loved ones - Passionate enough to campaign for your candidate of choice - Avoidant of anything political - Excited about the next four years - Anxious about the future Practicing self-care is essential for maintaining your mental health. Aspects to self-care include: - Physical - Emotional - Social - Environmental Ideas for self-care: - Take a walk, bike ride, or run - Curl up on the couch with a good book - Go to the beach or park - Eat foods you know make you feel better - Mindfully breathe - Connect with your loved ones Reminders for yourself: - Slow down as much as you reasonably can - Have compassion for yourself and others - Find respect for all of us - Exercise patience and persistence Learn more:

Join us this Thursday, October 17, at 3 p.m. ET for a new episode of Ask Dr. Jill! Just last week, the results of a new Harris Poll were released, with eye-opening detail about public perception of mental health and suicide. In a new episode of Ask Dr. Jill, AFSP Senior Vice President of Research Dr. Jill Harkavy-Friedman will be joined by Executive Director of the Suicide Prevention Resource Center Shelby Rowe. Their discussion will address the following questions: ? Has the public’s understanding of suicide changed over the years? If so, how? ? Do most people believe suicide can be prevented? ? Are there specific ways in which public understanding needs to increase? ? What did the Harris Poll reveal about the hesitations people have in seeking help? ? How can we all help increase understanding of mental health and how to be there for each other? ? Do different cultural groups have different levels of understanding of mental health? ? How many people have a personal connection to suicide? Do most people know someone who’s been affected? ? Do most people feel they know what to do to help someone who’s struggling? RSVP: https://lnkd.in/dXkY4DnS

Below are 5 ways to support a suicide loss survivor, but first sign up for an International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day event at afsp.org/survivorday. ?? Don’t ask intrusive questions about how the person died: If the loss survivor does not bring up the suicide method, assume they would prefer not to talk about it. If they do mention how their loved one died, do not ask for details beyond those that the loss survivor volunteers. ?? Be proactive about offering help: Offer help repeatedly and specifically. What everyday things that might be adding stress can you help with in the short term? Does the loss survivor need help running errands? Would they like someone to just sit with them for a while? ?? Don’t place value judgments on the suicide: Do not refer to the suicide as a selfish choice, a sin, an act of weakness, or a lack of faith or love or strength. ?? Be patient: Don’t place a timeline on the loss survivor’s grief; healing after a suicide loss is a lifelong journey. Well-intended though they may be, frequently heard phrases such as “This too shall pass,” and “You need to move on” can make the loss survivor feel pressured to “get over it.” ?? Don’t assign or imply blame: In trying to answer the question of why, suicide loss survivors often place blame on themselves. Be careful not to say things or ask questions that might suggest they’re responsible for the suicide, whether directly or indirectly.

How can sleep be measured to assist suicide prevention researchers? Are genetics involved in suicide death different than suicidal behavior? What do those bereaves by a sudden loss need? Learn the answers to these questions and more #Science2StopSuicide:

“There are countless people this has happened to, and there is a wealth of information and support available. So many people have gotten through this, and so will you.”

Have you lost a loved one to suicide? Here are ways to honor them: ??? Attend a Survivor Day event: afsp.org/SurvivorDay ?? Say your loved one’s name aloud. ?? Join a suicide loss support group: afsp.org/supportgroups Learn more: afsp.org/loss

Thank you to Jacoby Shaddix for sharing your mental health journey and advocating for suicide prevention. Your work helps save lives. Papa Roach's recently released version of “Leave a Light On (Talk Away the Dark)” with Carrie Underwood reminds us that we are not alone and brings hope to those affected by suicide. Read more in PEOPLE Magazine | PEOPLE.com:

Dr. Hilary Blumberg emphasizes the importance of mental health care for young minds. ?? Prioritizing wellness is key for a brighter future for those we love. Teens and their parents can start making healthy decisions today because healthy choices today lead to stronger minds tomorrow. #Science2StopSuicide