#United States #New York #mental health #AFSP #Hispanic Heritage

AFSP Promoting Vital Mental Health Resources

During this year's National Hispanic Heritage Month, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is taking a significant step towards supporting Hispanic and Latino communities. The organization emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness and offers various resources aimed at helping individuals navigate their mental health struggles. This initiative comes at a crucial time when mental health issues are on the rise within these communities, highlighted by a concerning 9.5% increase in suicide rates among Hispanics from 2018 to 2023.

Community Engagement Through Out of the Darkness Walks

A central element of AFSP’s efforts is its Out of the Darkness Walks, which are held in various locations across the United States. These walks not only aim to raise awareness about suicide prevention but also foster community spirit and offer a supportive environment for individuals and families affected by suicide. Participants are encouraged to join local events, which help amplify the message that suicide should no longer be stigmatized or kept in the shadows. This September, the walks will continue through the fall season, anticipating the participation of nearly a quarter million individuals nationwide.

Educational Initiatives

AFSP also introduces the Talk Saves Lives program specifically for Spanish-speaking audiences, focusing on suicide prevention strategies tailored for Hispanic and Latino communities. This educational initiative seeks to ignite meaningful conversations about mental health, highlighting warning signs, risk factors, and the importance of seeking help. The response to this outreach has been overwhelmingly positive, with surveys showing that 94% of participants felt more inclined to reach out to crisis services after completing the training.

Upcoming courses are scheduled for October 1st in Spanish and October 2nd for English-speaking participants from Hispanic backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of culturally relevant support systems in mental health treatment. This fosters a community that actively engages in discussions about health, encouraging help-seeking behavior to mitigate suicide risks.

Strong Talk Podcast Series

In addition to community walks and educational programs, AFSP releases an exclusive podcast series titled Strong Talk, hosted by Vice President for Health Equity and Engagement, Victor Armstrong. The podcast addresses critical conversations surrounding mental health resources in Spanish and cultural relevance in treatment. Featuring insights from experts like Dr. Pierluigi Mancini, the series emphasizes the necessity of offering culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health services. Dr. Mancini brings in-depth knowledge, underscoring how tailored services can dramatically impact outcomes for Latino populations dealing with mental health issues.

New Spanish Website for Accessible Resources

To further promote awareness and accessibility, AFSP has launched a new Spanish-language website at es.afsp.org. This platform is designed to provide vital mental health information and resources in Spanish, catering to one of the largest demographic groups in the U.S. This online hub includes information about mental health disorders, warning signs of suicide, and tips for supporting someone in crisis. It also raises awareness about the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, urging Hispanic adults to utilize this important resource, which continues to be underused within the community.

Take Action During Suicide Prevention Month

AFSP’s commitment to saving lives and instilling hope in those impacted by suicide is evident through its robust array of resources and community outreach efforts. As we observe National Hispanic Heritage Month, the urgency to engage and educate Hispanic communities around mental health is more critical than ever. Whether you are directly affected or an ally, it’s important to engage with these resources, reflect on personal experiences of resilience, and take action to foster a supportive environment.

For more information on how to get involved, visit es.afsp.org and join the conversation on social media platforms, where AFSP shares stories of hope, support and a commitment to mental health well-being.

AFSP is dedicated to creating a culture that is understanding and proactive about mental health through public education, community programs, research advocacy, and support for those affected by suicide. Headquartered in New York, with a public policy office in Washington D.C., AFSP has local branches in all 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Join AFSP in its mission to prevent suicide and support mental health education across every community.