#United States #New York #AFSP #Talk Saves Lives #SPRC

AFSP's Talk Saves Lives Program Earns Prestigious Recognition

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) has achieved a significant milestone with its flagship educational initiative, Talk Saves Lives: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention (TSL). Recently, the program received recognition from the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) and was added to its Best Practices Registry (BPR). This acknowledgment emphasizes the effectiveness and relevance of TSL in suicide prevention efforts throughout the United States.

Elevating Awareness and Engagement

Talk Saves Lives aims to raise awareness about suicide and equip participants with vital information about warning signs, risk factors, and effective strategies for intervention. Remarkably, 94% of those who attended the program reported a higher likelihood of utilizing crisis services, indicating a 43% increase compared to their status before attending the program. This considerable improvement underscores the program’s success in fostering proactive discussions around mental health and suicide prevention.

Trisha Calabrese, AFSP's Senior Vice President of Programs, expressed pride in this recognition, stating, "We are extremely honored that our program has been recognized by the experts at the Suicide Prevention Resource Center. This accolade affirms the impact Talk Saves Lives is making in communities nationwide." She further emphasized the program’s commitment to broadening its reach, especially during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, aiming to extend support to even more individuals with tailored resources for communities most affected by suicide.

The Evolution of Talk Saves Lives

Originally launched in 2015, Talk Saves Lives underwent a thoughtful refresh in 2024, informed by feedback from presenters, content experts, and individuals with lived experience. The updated version offers a more inclusive layout and additional strategies, helping participants gain confidence in having conversations about suicide. The program is designed in diverse formats, catering to various audiences, including rural communities, healthcare professionals, college students, LGBTQ+ individuals, and even specific industries like construction. This effort ensures that the program addresses the distinct needs of different demographics, making it accessible to those who might be at a higher risk.

sessions are currently available for registration in September, allowing individuals and organizations to take advantage of this opportunity to learn vital skills that can help save lives.

Expanding Reach and Impact

Since its inception, Talk Saves Lives has demonstrated significant growth and impact across the nation. In 2024, the refreshed program was delivered nearly 1,000 times, reaching close to 29,000 individuals. Feedback from participants has shown that 93% gained new insights, and 72% learned at least two or more new concepts. Notably, 44% of attendees revealed this was their first suicide prevention training or presentation, marking a crucial step in extending awareness to new audiences.

Overall, since the program's launch, it has reached more than 335,000 individuals nationwide, making substantial strides in promoting mental health education and support.

Join the Conversation

For those interested in accessing resources or learning more about the Talk Saves Lives initiative, further information is available at AFSP's Talk Saves Lives website. As AFSP continues to dedicate its efforts to saving lives and fostering hope, the message is clear: everyone has a part to play in preventing suicide, and education is a key component in that mission.

The work done through programs like Talk Saves Lives not only aids individuals and communities in understanding the complexities surrounding suicide but also empowers them to make a difference.

About American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is committed to reducing suicide rates and offering support to those affected by suicide, including those who have lost someone. AFSP promotes mental health awareness through community programs, advocacy, and research, and operates local chapters across all 50 states, ensuring widespread social support. For a comprehensive understanding of AFSP's work, individuals can refer to their annual report or follow them on social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.