At [AFSP]([link removed]), our mission is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.
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This June, all of us at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention are excited to celebrate Pride Month. But more than just celebrating, we’re committed to fighting against discriminatory policies, and enhancing awareness and structural support for LGBTQ+ mental health and suicide prevention.
For AFSP’s 2024 Annual Report, Volunteer Advocate Kris Williams wrote about growing up gay in a deeply religious family, and opening up to a therapist at the age of 22 about experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Now, Kris uses her lived experience to advocate with AFSP’s Oklahoma Chapter for LGBTQ+ mental health and suicide prevention. Kris writes:
“If I’ve learned anything over the past couple of decades, it is that my experience was not isolated, and that others were struggling to be seen, loved, cherished, and fighting for their next breath. I have learned that my voice has power and our voice has power.” [(Read Kris's full story.)]([link removed])
Here are more stories and resources related to LGBTQ+ mental health and suicide prevention. We encourage you to read, explore, and share them widely in your communities:
- From the Real Stories Blog:
- [“As a Queer Person and Suicide Loss Survivor, I've Learned There's Strength in Vulnerability”]([link removed])
- [“Growing up Transgender in the South: Legislative Attacks, Suicide Prevention, and Advocating for a Path Forward”]([link removed])
- [“Finding Hope Through Religion: Together, We Can Stop Suicide in the Queer Community”]([link removed])
- Visit our [LGBTQ+ Individuals & Populations page]([link removed])to learn more about AFSP's position on policies affecting LGBTQ+ people
- Explore [AFSP's LGBTQ+ Resource Guide]([link removed]), which includes key information on LGBTQ+ crisis and support services, LGBTQ+ suicide research, and how to take proactive measures to prevent suicide among LGBTQ+ people
- Attend a June presentation of [Talk Saves Lives: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention in the LGBTQ+ Community]([link removed]) and learn about the unique considerations surrounding suicide in the LGBTQ+ community, including the latest research on LGBTQ+ suicide prevention, how to recognize suicide risk factors and warning signs, crisis resources and services, and what communities can do to support LGBTQ+ people.
Join us this June –– and all year round –– to fight for LGBTQ+ mental health and suicide prevention. Because LGBTQ+ people deserve to feel safe, cared for, and celebrated.
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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
199 Water St. 11th Floor New York, NY 10038
