Washington D.C. – The American Association of Suicidology (AAS) commends the Biden-Harris Administration and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for launching the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention (National Strategy) and accompanied by the first-ever Federal Action Plan. This landmark initiative, developed in partnership with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention, is a pivotal step in addressing the urgent and growing public health crisis of suicide in the United States.
With over 49,000 lives lost to suicide in 2022 alone, the need for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to suicide prevention has never been more critical. The National Strategy outlines specific recommendations and priorities to bridge existing gaps and cater to the needs of at-risk populations, while the Federal Action Plan identifies 200 discrete actions for implementation and evaluation over the next three years.
Leeann Sherman, President & CEO of the American Association of Suicidology, stated, “The development of the first-ever Federal Action Plan for Suicide Prevention stands as a testament to the dedication and cooperation among federal agencies, public and private partners, and key stakeholders. Together, we are making significant strides in addressing the complexities of suicide and safeguarding lives.”
The National Strategy prioritizes health equity, aiming to mitigate the higher suicide risks faced by Veterans, racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those individuals with disabilities, among others. It underscores the importance of cross-sector partnerships and the engagement of individuals from those with lived experience.
Sherman added: “As an organization dedicated to suicide prevention, intervention, and support, we are committed to work alongside with government agencies, private sector organizations, and communities to implement the Federal Action Plan and reduce the incidence of suicide, support those affected by suicide, and to empower all toward resilient lives, inspiring hope and preventing suicide through the advancement of suicidology.”
To learn more about the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention and Federal Action Plan, visit www.hhs.gov/nssp.
For media inquiries or further information, contact
Jody Gottlieb
American Association of Suicidology
jgottlieb@suicidolgy.org