Though National Suicide Prevention Month is coming to a close, our efforts continue all year round. There is a role for everyone to play in the fight against this leading cause of death.

Throughout September, we've highlighted specific actions the public can take to make a big difference for suicide prevention –– from joining your local AFSP chapter, to participating in an Out of the Darkness Walk, becoming a Volunteer Advocate, learning about suicide prevention research, and bringing suicide prevention programs such as Talk Saves Lives and the Interactive Screening Program to your community. Here is one more action you can take as part of National Suicide Prevention Month to help Talk Away the Dark:

Those who have lost a loved one to suicide often feel hesitant to talk to others about the type of loss they have experienced. September is a great time to spread the word about the hundreds of local and virtual “Survivor Day” events taking place each November – including Día de Esperanza (Day of Hope) for the Hispanic community – enabling survivors of suicide loss to come together to find connection, understanding, and hope through their shared experience.

Started in 1999 by Senator Harry Reid, who lost his father to suicide, International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day was introduced as a resolution to the United States Senate and designated by the United States Congress as a day on which those affected by suicide can join together for healing and support. Survivor Day has become synonymous with hope, healing, and connection for survivors of suicide loss around the world. At events in communities everywhere, suicide loss survivors talk openly about their experiences, learning from others who have healed from their loss and who help light the way forward. Learn more about Survivor Day here.

We hope the actions we've highlighted for National Suicide Prevention Month will inspire you not just for September, but in your everyday life. This year, International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day takes place on Saturday, November 18. We encourage you to spread the word throughout your community, and register for an event near you.