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

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

The CEO Alliance for Mental Health is dedicated to improving the lives of people living with mental health and substance use challenges. Today, the CEOs recognize World Mental Health Day, highlighting a critical element of their Unified Vision, and affirm that we stand together to increase the number and diversity of mental health and substance use condition workers and providers. #WorldMentalHealthDay #CEOAlliance #SubstanceUseRecovery #MentalHealthSupport #DiversityInHealthcare

“Part of the reason I chose my calling, and founded a mental health agency that serve the Hispanic population, is because I realize that minorities and immigrants face unique challenges in receiving appropriate services for mental health.”

Los últimos hallazgos de la Encuesta de Percepción Pública de la Salud Mental y Prevención del Suicidio de 2024 revelan conocimientos importantes sobre cómo los adultos estadounidenses entienden el suicidio y su papel potencial en apoyar a quienes se encuentran en crisis. Tres de las principales organizaciones de prevención del suicidio del país American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention en Education Development Center y Suicide Prevention Resource Center se asociaron con The Harris Poll para desarrollar la encuesta bianual en línea, que encuestó a más del doble de adultos estadounidenses mayores de 18 a?os en 2024 (más de 4.000) que las encuestas anteriores para poder analizar la muestra total con mayor detalle, particularmente por subgrupos raciales clave.