AFSP Podcast Channel Launches to Tackle Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Conversations

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), a prominent organization in the field of suicide prevention, has introduced its own podcast channel. This initiative is designed to feature a myriad of expert guests and dive deep into contemporary issues surrounding mental health and suicide prevention, including the quest for health equity—ensuring everyone has fair access to necessary resources and care.

Engaging Conversations with Experts

The podcast series will host an array of distinguished guests, including comedian and voice actor J.B. Smoove, New Jersey Congress Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Dr. Pierluigi Mancini, an expert in cultural and linguistic responsiveness. These discussions aim to shed light on the critical need for awareness around mental health issues and the prevention of suicide.

Three Unique Podcast Series

Produced in collaboration with Hueman Group Media, AFSP's podcast channel features three unique series:
1. Strong Talk
This series is hosted by Vic Armstrong, AFSP's Vice President for Health Equity and Engagement. It tackles mental health topics through the perspective of health equity, engaging mental health experts, advocates, and thought leaders.
2. Ask Dr. Jill
Hosted by Dr. Jill Harkavy-Friedman, AFSP’s Senior Vice President of Research, this series provides insight into research findings related to mental health and suicide prevention. Dr. Harkavy-Friedman will address common questions along with contributions from various specialists in the field.
3. Elevating Voices
This series brings forth a roundtable discussion format where AFSP leaders and clinical experts unite to explore the unique mental health challenges faced by diverse communities.

Health Equity Message

Vic Armstrong emphasizes that understanding the varied experiences within communities is fundamental to preventing suicide. By featuring guests from different backgrounds, the podcast aims to offer listeners diverse perspectives, fostering a sense of representation and comfort.

"Addressing the unique lived experiences and challenges faced by different communities is the first step in employing a health equity approach to understanding and preventing suicide," states Armstrong.

Simplifying Complex Research

Dr. Harkavy-Friedman acknowledges that many research findings can often be complex and hard to digest for the general public. With this series, she aims to simplify these findings, making information accessible and comprehensible for everyone.

Listeners can look forward to the upcoming episode of Ask Dr. Jill airing on December 10, where Robbie Torney, Senior Director of AI Programs at Common Sense Media, will join Dr. Harkavy-Friedman in discussing teens and their use of AI chatbots.

Stay Updated

To catch the latest episodes, follow AFSP on their social media platforms and visit the AFSP Podcast Channel on major streaming platforms. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is steadfast in their mission to save lives and provide hope to those impacted by suicide while enhancing public understanding of mental health. AFSP engages in extensive public education efforts, advocates for suicide prevention, and offers support to those affected by suicide.

To learn more about AFSP, check out their latest Annual Report and engage with the community on various social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok. For media inquiries regarding this launch, interested parties are encouraged to fill out the press request form and review AFSP's Ethical Reporting Guidelines.