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

You are unconditionally welcome at AFSP. ?? Research tells us that transgender people report higher prevalence of suicide attempts over their lifetime, than LGB or straight people. We also know that it’s not an individual’s LGBTQ+ identity that elevates the risk for suicide. It’s experiences of trauma, violence, discrimination, and marginalization—as well as laws that encourage stigma and lack protection against discrimination—that increase the risk of suicide for LGBTQ+ people. So, we want to remind you that you are not alone in any complex emotions you may be experiencing. If you’re struggling or want to connect with a trusted mental health professional, call or text 988, or text TALK to 741741.

After losing two friends to suicide, Matthew Magana chose to honor their memory by running the Los Angeles Marathon. In addition to training for the 26.2-mile run, Matthew raised funds for AFSP and shared his “why” with others. Reflecting on the experience, Matthew remembers the immense support and personal growth he experienced, inspiring him to continue supporting AFSP. Read Matthew’s story: https://lnkd.in/ejyD9ha

By understanding the suicide risk factors and warning signs and approaching suicide prevention in the same way you do other safety or health issues, parents can better support their teens' mental health. Learn how to identify, support, and talk to a teen at risk for suicide: #WorldTeenMentalHealthDay

This #WomensHistoryMonth, we honor the women that have and will champion suicide prevention. Dr. Barbara Stanley was one of the world’s foremost leaders in suicide prevention research. Dr. Stanley forged a path as a clinical psychiatrist in a largely male-dominated field. She developed and implemented innovative approaches to suicide prevention strategies such as the Suicide Safety Planning Intervention. Thanks to women like Dr. Stanley, we’re able to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. Learn more about Dr. Stanley’s legacy:

Carmen Diaz’s family felt divided after losing two family members to suicide. Culturally there was a stigma surrounding mental illness that created a feeling of separation and made it difficult for Carmen to heal. Carmen’s desire to heal and learn fueled her to bring the first Campus Walk to her college and later to pursue a master's in social work with a concentration in mental health and addiction. Carmen’s story reminds us that by fighting stigma and finding purpose, we can find hope and healing. Read Carmen’s story: https://lnkd.in/eR-acbj

As teens increasingly turn to AI for emotional support, what risks do teens and their parents face? “Those lines between virtual and IRL are way more blurred, and these are real experiences and real relationships that they’re forming,” shares AFSP Chief Medical Officer Christine Yu Moutier in a recent LA Times article discussing the potential harms of AI chatbots. Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/gV9r_Xqu

No one faces tomorrow alone — we are in this together. ?? As #BlackHistoryMonth comes to an end, we want to reiterate the importance of collectively supporting and protecting Black mental health. Together, we can fight suicide in historically marginalized communities, increase access to culturally relevant mental health resources and care, and better understand Black mental health. Artwork by Lo Harris

NEW EPISODE ?? The latest episode of Strong Talk explores the impact and journey of bringing faith-based suicide prevention to Africa. In this episode, AFSP’s Vice President for Health Equity and Engagement Victor (Vic) Armstrong, MSW, and Pastor Dr. Francois Tchidje talk about: ?? Their shared experience in a unique suicide prevention training conducted in Africa by AFSP and Soul Shop for Black Churches ?? Dr. Tchjde’s motivation for traveling to America ?? The impact of Dr. Tchjde’s suicide prevention work utilizing his training with AFSP and Soul Shop and how it relates to the “African experience” ?? Their shared experience conducting the training in Cameroon ?? …and more! Listen to the latest Strong Talk episode “Bringing Faith-Based Suicide Prevention to Africa:” https://lnkd.in/dbU8JWY7

Stigmatizing policies discourage health workers from seeking mental health care. But by working together, we can change the system and prioritize the #mentalhealth for those who care for us. We’re proud to share 43 licensure boards & 521 hospitals have done so by verifying their applications do not include intrusive mental health questions—benefiting 1.25 million licensed & 200,000 credentialed health workers nationwide. #StopTheStigma #ALLINForHealthcare https://lnkd.in/edBPF2t3