AFSP: Preventing Suicide in America Since 1987

In the United States, someone dies by suicide every 13.7 minutes, and almost a million people make a suicide attempt every year. Concerned with the rise in youth suicide over the past decades, a group of experts on the issue came together with survivors and business and community leaders to form the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) in 1987. Because research and education programs have been successful in preventing heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, the founders hoped that such an approach would also work in dealing with suicide and depression.

Today, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is the leading national non-profit organization solely dedicated to preventing and understanding suicide, as well as to reaching out to individuals whose lives are affected by suicide. To carry out its mission, AFSP funds scientific research on suicide, provides educational programs for professionals, and educates the public about suicide prevention. Additionally, the organization offers resources and programs for survivors and people at risk, and supports pertinent policies and legislation.