American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Launches Updated Talk Saves Lives™ Program

By: Erica Stokes

At Community Service Board of Middle Georgia (CSBMG), we align ourselves with organizations that share our commitment to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. One such organization is the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), whose mission mirrors our dedication to mental health and suicide prevention.

AFSP has recently launched an enhanced edition of its flagship education program, Talk Saves Lives™: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention. Since its initial launch in 2015, this vital program has educated nearly 240,000 individuals on the crucial role they can play in preventing suicide (AFSP, 2024).

Recognizing the need to reach more diverse communities and integrate the latest research, AFSP has significantly updated Talk Saves Lives™. The program now offers customizable and interactive content tailored for various audiences, including LGBTQ+ communities, older adults, firearms owners, workplaces, and more. This enhancement ensures a more inclusive and impactful learning experience for all participants (AFSP, 2024).

As of August 2024, the updated Talk Saves Lives™ program is available across all AFSP chapters in the U.S., Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico. CSBMG encourages community members to connect with AFSP by visiting afsp.org/chapters. Becoming a trained presenter or requesting a specific TSL program for your community can make a significant difference. You can also register for virtual or in-person TSL presentations at afsp.org/calendar (AFSP, 2024).

For more insights into the updated Talk Saves Lives™ program, visit AFSP’s Real Stories blog and explore a new article detailing the enhancements and the program’s expanded reach (AFSP, 2024).

By collaborating with organizations like AFSP, CSBMG continues to advance our shared goal of preventing suicide and fostering mental well-being within our communities. Together, we can create a supportive environment where every life is valued, and hope is ever-present.

Learn more about the updated Talk Saves Lives™ program at AFSP.

For more information or support, visit the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia website or contact us directly. Your involvement and support are crucial in our ongoing efforts to build a healthier, safer community.

References

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (2024). Talk Saves Lives™: An introduction to suicide prevention. Retrieved from https://afsp.org.