American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
A life is lost to suicide every 18 minutes in America, most often as a consequence of a psychiatric disorder. The impact suicide has on the lives of surviving family members, friends, co-workers and neighbors is devastating. And the loss of human potential is enormous.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is dedicated to preventing this tragic loss of life through its support of research, treatment initiatives and professional and public education. AFSP also offers programs for survivors of suicide - - those who have lost a family member or friend to suicide.
Through a partnership between nationally recognized scientists, interested business and community leaders and involved survivors, AFSP:
- Encourages and funds scientific research into why suicide occurs and how best to prevent it.
Funded research sheds light on the underlying biological, genetic and psychosocial causes of suicide. With a growing number of studies underway each year, the Foundation has become the leading private supporter of suicide research. Grants are reviewed by a Scientific Council comprised of 50 of the leading experts on suicide. Further, AFSP encourages new investigators, while supporting cutting-edge research by the most experienced scientists.
- Shapes and coordinates new treatment initiatives aimed at reducing suicide.
AFSP develops and tests model programs for detecting individuals at highest risk for suicide so they can be referred for help. Another priority is the creation of new and innovative prevention projects aimed at improving treatment for those at risk. The Foundation also brings together scientific and clinical experts to discuss topics critical to improving the treatment of suicidal patients.
- Provides educational programs for mental health clinicians, physicians and other professionals.
Educational programs for mental health disseminate the latest advances in suicide research and help to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and suicide. Through conferences, videos, publications and its website, AFSP is educating primary care physicians, mental health clinicians, educators, clergy, students, and others - - so they can identify and help bring to treatment depressed and suicidal individuals.
- Offers programs to help survivors heal and provides opportunities to become involved in prevention.
A major part of AFSP’s mission is to assist survivors, help them find the answers they seek and involve them in suicide prevention. Each year, AFSP sponsors National Survivors of Suicide Day on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, organizing healing conferences across the country linked by a live satellite broadcast and webcast. Through an electronic network survivors learn of resources and play a vital role as advocates.
- Promotes policies that further the prevention of suicide.
The Foundation alerts public officials, legislators and national and community leaders to important suicide research, prevention initiatives and the needs and goals of the survivor community. Policy statements have been issued on the dangers surrounding access to firearms by those who are depressed or suicidal, and on improving palliative care of the terminally ill to reduce their vulnerability to suicide.
- Fosters public awareness about suicide and its warning signs.
AFSP educates the public about suicide prevention and the psychiatric illnesses most often responsible for suicide. The Foundation produces public service announcements that are seen by tens of millions of Americans each year, and responds to requests for information from the media, community groups, educators, parents, students and other concerned individuals. AFSP also works with the media to encourage responsible reporting on suicide.
AFSP has a growing network of affiliated chapters that implement programs and policies at the local level. As a not-for-profit organization, AFSP relies on the expertise and donated time of volunteers and on the generous contributions of friends and supporters. To learn more visit the Foundation’s website at www.afsp.org.
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