American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Post

“After a few years spent processing my attempt, working in therapy to heal my psyche, I began my search for a venue in which I could share my experience in a way that would benefit our community and further strengthen my own well-being. I longed for others who would understand, without judgment, and who also wanted to make a difference. My search led me to my local chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.” Continue reading Melanie Figaro’s story:

Anyone can be an advocate for suicide prevention. Yes, even you! 🫵 Here are three simple steps to take action: 📣 Visit afsp.org/actioncenter 📧 Send an email to you legislators ❤️ Engage with your public officials on social Get involved with #AFSPadvocacy today: afsp.org/advocacy

"In 2005, at the age of 33, my daughter Jennifer Ann took her own life. This shining star graduated with honors, achieved accolades as an accomplished musician, and was also an avid environmentalist, a loving and attentive daughter and sister, and an advocate for the poor and disadvantaged – yet she struggled with depression and anxiety for over a decade. After her death, I relived her last days over and over again, blaming myself, and asking a thousand questions that all began the same way: 'Why?' I kept asking myself why I hadn’t driven down to be with her after she called me just two days before she died. I struggled to try to make sense of what happened, trying to put the pieces together again and again, recreating her last days or weeks. Grief stinks, it really does!" Read more of Mary Weiler's story:

“We all need to care about suicide prevention and mental health. When we do, everything changes. The stigma is silenced. The judgment is avoided. The way things look becomes irrelevant. The fear becomes hope.” Continue reading Alyssa Relyea's story:

Thank you The Defensive Line for your partnership and dedication to a shared mission of saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.

We recently hosted the Long-Term Survivors of Suicide Loss Summit in Austin, an event filled with connection, understanding and empowerment. Thank you Jim Ford for sharing your story and impactful experience at the Summit. ⬇️

"The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has expanded services and continued to answer millions of calls, texts, and chats from people experiencing mental health or substance use crises since its launch on July 16, 2022, the agency heads for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced today.” Read more from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS):

Today we recognize the 2 year anniversary of the 988 Lifeline, the three-digit code that replaced the former 10-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Since its launch, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has experienced an increase in use. States like Arizona offer 24/7 mobile crisis teams. Our CEO, Robert Gebbia, spoke with PBS about how Arizona has become a leading model for crisis care.

Today is the 2️⃣ year anniversary of 988 Lifeline’s launch! The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline helps save lives. Anyone located across in the U.S. can call, chat, or text 988 and receive resources and supports during a suicide, mental health, or substance use crisis. AFSP worked with Congressional partners, other non-profit coalition members, and mental health agencies to lead the charge for 988. From advocating for the Lifeline itself to encouraging budget allocations for the Lifeline’s implementation and maintenance, AFSP has been at the forefront of this movement. AFSP supports increases in federal and state funding for the future 988 crisis response system. To get involved in #AFSPadvocacy around 988, visit afsp.org/advocacy.