Virtual events bring attention to suicide prevention over the holidays

CHICAGO (WAND) — Illinois' chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is sponsoring events in November and December to raise awareness of suicide.

The organization hopes to inspire people to learn how they can play a role in their communities in helping to save lives.

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death for all ages, according to the Centers for Disease Control. In Illinois, suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for ages 10-34 and 6th leading cause for ages 35-54.

During November and December, people can be impacted by “holiday blues” when holidays can bring painful reminders and difficulties for survivors of loss and those struggling with mental health. AFSP hosts a number of events, as part of the organization’s efforts to combat suicide, reduce the stigma around discussing suicide, and bring hope to those who have been impacted by suicide.

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day: Saturday, November 23

Each year, AFSP supports hundreds of large and small International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day events around the world, in which suicide loss survivors come together to find connection, understanding and hope through their shared experience. While each event is unique and offers various programming, all feature an AFSP-produced documentary that offers a message of growth, resilience and connection.

Virtual Events:

Illinois Virtual Event: 1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., November 24

Virtual Event/American Sign Language: 3 p.m. – 5 p.m., November 23

Through a Jewish Lens (virtual event): 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Sunday, November 24, International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day event for suicide loss survivors of Jewish faith/identity.

“Suicide is a national health issue that may involve a number of risk factors, including mental and physical health conditions, family mental illness or family history of suicide, childhood trauma, abuse or neglect, and genetics,” said Angela Cummings, executive director of AFSP-Illinois. “Yet, we know that suicide can be prevented, and AFSP leads the way in efforts to end this leading cause of death. It is important for people to get involved, whether they have lost a loved one to suicide or struggle with mental health themselves.”

AFSP-Illinois Fall 2024 Research Connection:

The Benefits and Risks of ADHD Medication: Evidence from Real-World Practice

Noon – 1 p.m., Wednesday, December 4

Presenter: Dr. Brian D’Onofrio, professor, Indiana University at Bloomington

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the most common neurodevelopmental disorder, is associated with impaired socioemotional functioning, increased risk behaviors, substance problems, and suicidality. Determining the most effective treatment for ADHD is an important public health priority. This presentation will describe how large-scale observational studies have extended the findings on ADHD medications.

AFSP-Illinois Volunteer Gathering

10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday, December 7

Join us for an AFSP 101 Orientation to find out how to get involved with the fight to stop suicide.

Talk Saves Lives: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention

Noon – 1 p.m., Monday, December 16

AFSP’s signature education program, Talk Saves Lives: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention, provides participants with life-saving knowledge and confidence critical to preventing suicide.

Unplugged with AFSP-Illinois: Bridging the Gap: Expanding Mental Health Support for Marginalized Communities

7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Tuesday December 17, 2024

The AFSPIL Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee will be hosting a panel discussion on the importance of addressing mental health in underserved communities and the resources available to them in an effort to offer help, support, and hope for all.

If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide, please call, text or chat 988 for the Suicide Crisis Lifeline. Or go to https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/.

Suicide Prevention Resources: www.afsp.org/resources

Suicide Warning Signs: www.afsp.org/signs