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

"For transgender kids, having access to gender-affirming health care and being in schools that support and uplift them and their identities can be the difference between life and death."

Supporting a suicide loss survivor can be challenging, but sometimes, even just a few words can speak volumes. Here are some ideas of what to say, but also remember that when words fail, empathy and a listening ear can provide comfort to survivors too. If you’re a suicide loss survivor yourself, connect and listen to others with similar losses at a #SurvivorDay Event near you: afsp.org/survivorday

"Respect and love are lifesaving. When you can respect a person for who they are – not who you see them as – it can change and save their life. Especially when we are talking about LGBTQ humans."

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, also known as Survivor Day, takes place this year on Saturday, November 23. This annual occasion is an opportunity for those who have been affected by suicide loss to gather at events around the world and find connection, understanding, and hope through shared experience. If you're unable to attend an event IRL, join us for a virtual livestream: https://lnkd.in/d6vQX-TV

We are thrilled to announce our virtual Día de Esperanza (Day of Hope) event on Friday, November 22, at 4 pm ET! This event, conducted in Spanish, will be moderated by AFSP's Vice President of Public Relations, María de los ángeles Corral, and will feature panelists Laura Ramos from the Central Texas Chapter and Martin Reyes from the Nevada Chapter. Both Laura and Martin are suicide loss survivors who bring powerful perspectives on mental health and suicide prevention within Hispanic and Latino communities. Join us live on Facebook and YouTube for insights on fostering open conversations, building understanding, and finding connection and hope: https://lnkd.in/diaDw9j3

The holiday season is here: a time customarily filled with warmth and joy, but which can also be difficult for so many. As you begin to reflect on what the holidays mean to you, remember that Giving Tuesday is December 3. Our goal this year is to raise $250,000 – funds that will go toward: ?? Scientific research that enables us to learn more about how we can save lives ?? Support programs and events for survivors of suicide loss such as Healing Conversations and International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day ?? Advocacy for public policy related to mental health and suicide prevention ?? Education programs that raise our culture’s understanding ?? Out of the Darkness Walks that bring communities together and send the message that suicide is an issue that must be brought into the light Together, we can make a difference. Make your #GivingTuesday gift today: afsp.org/givingtuesday #Give2AFSP

77% of adults in the US would be interested in learning how to help someone who may be experiencing thoughts of suicide. You can be that person. Learning how to have an honest conversation with someone who is struggling: https://lnkd.in/gmviDtUR For additional insights from our recent public perception poll in association with National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention and Suicide Prevention Resource Center, visit: SuicidePreventionNow.org

Now available for listening – “Funny Feelings with J.B. Smoove (Part Two)” wherever you listen to podcasts! In this two-part episode, AFSP's Vice President for Health Equity and Engagement, Vic Armstrong, talks with J.B. Smoove about mental health topics, including: ?? Our culture’s evolving perception of mental health ?? The unfair pressure on Black men to keep their feelings inside ?? The challenge of having to put on a happy face while dealing with something difficult ?? Strategies for healthily managing one’s mental health Listen to the episode and share with a friend: afsp.org/strongtalk

Secure storage saves lives. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is now offering free lockboxes for veterans to safely store their firearms under a bipartisan bill introduced in the House. Research shows that secure storage of firearms reduces suicide risk. Removing access to firearms and other lethal means allows for moments of intense suicidal crisis to pass and for others to intervene with potentially lifesaving mental health support and resources. Read more in Military.com: