#United States #Washington D.C. #Suicide Prevention #American Foundation for Suicide Prevention #Advocacy Forum

Volunteer Advocates Unite for Suicide Prevention

From May 10 to 13, 2026, Washington D.C. will become the focal point for over 200 dedicated Volunteer Advocates from across the nation. These passionate individuals will convene for the annual Advocacy Forum hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). The forum aims to strengthen suicide prevention policies vital for saving lives and creating supportive environments for those struggling with mental health issues.

A Call to Action

The urgency for such gatherings cannot be overstated. In 2024 alone, the United States witnessed 48,824 tragic losses due to suicide, making it the 10th leading cause of death. This alarming statistic underscores the importance of advocating for robust policies and support systems that can make a tangible difference.

Laurel Stine, AFSP’s Executive Vice President and Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer, emphasizes the collective strength of these advocates: "When our advocates raise their voices, they help ensure that suicide prevention remains a national priority — and that more people get the care and support they need." Their efforts are deeply personal, with many survivors sharing their stories to highlight the devastating impact of suicide on families and communities.

Legislative Priorities

During the Forum, participants will engage directly with congressional leaders discussing crucial pieces of legislation, including:
1. The Daniel J. Harvey Jr. and Adam Lambert Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act (H.R. 2878/S. 2096): This aims to expand services provided by Veterans Affairs to help service members recognize suicide risk factors and seek help.
2. The Barriers to Suicide Act (H.R. 3505): This bill supports the installation of deterrent barriers on structures at high risk for suicide attempts, allocating $10 million annually to fund this initiative from FY 2026 to FY 2030.
3. The Stabilization to Prevent (STOP) Suicide Act (H.R. 8124): This legislation establishes a grant program to provide suicide stabilization services, including outpatient care and peer support.

Voices Behind the Advocacy

Among the notable speakers at the forum are members of Congress and influential figures in mental health advocacy. Attendees can look forward to insights from The Honorable Seth Magaziner and The Honorable Don Beyer, as well as industry leaders and specialists from various organizations. Their collective goal: to ensure that suicide prevention is prioritized at all levels of government.

Additionally, the forum will recognize champions of suicide prevention with the AFSP’s Allies in Action Awards. Members of Congress who have exhibited outstanding leadership in furthering mental health awareness and resources will be honored, including Senators and House Representatives who have tirelessly advocated for the 988 Lifeline, which provides immediate support to those in crisis.

Local and Nationwide Impact

The Advocacy Forum builds on AFSP's earlier Advocacy Action Day, where more than 1,200 advocates made their voices heard in state legislatures. With remarkable success, there were over 380 legislative meetings held in 40 states, resulting in 28 state bills being enacted to enhance suicide prevention efforts. Advocates will continue their efforts to ensure these priorities gain congressional support.

Jennifer Moffett, an Advocacy Ambassador for AFSP, states, "As a suicide loss survivor, the Advocacy Forum is how I turn my grief into purpose." Her testimony reflects the importance of personal connections in advocacy work, transforming individual pain into powerful advocacy for systemic change.

Moving Forward Together

As the Advocacy Forum unfolds, it serves as a reminder that the struggle against suicide and mental health issues requires collective action. The AFSP is committed to developing initiatives that not only raise awareness but also implement effective solutions to combat the rising rates of suicide.

For anyone wishing to join the conversation or support AFSP’s legislative priorities, the AFSP Action Center offers resources and guidance for contacting members of Congress. The fight for lives lost to suicide is a shared responsibility — together, advocates can drive meaningful change.