In 2014, AAS took the historic step of approving a membership division for people who have been suicidal and their supporters. Our goal is to make sure people who’ve been suicidal are central to research, policy-making, public messaging, treatment and support. We’re colleagues and friends.
As we become more open and confident in discussing suicidal thinking, the resources for us grow. We are encouraging and supporting people who want to step forward to share their stories and their hope.
A Journey Toward Health and Hope: Your Handbook for Recovery After a Suicide Attempt
This handbook guides people through the first steps toward recovery and a hopeful future after a suicide attempt. Includes personal stories from survivors who share their experiences as well as strategies, such as re-establishing connections and finding a counselor to work with.
National Initiatives
The Paul G. Quinnett Lived Experience Writing Contest is a first-of-its-kind opportunity for survivors of suicide attempts and suicidal ideation to share their stories of hope, healing, recovery, and survival.
The Way Forward: This 2014 report, with video, by the Suicide Attempt Task Force of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention has groundbreaking recommendations for supporting anyone who’s been suicidal. The primary writer was our division director, Dr. DeQuincy Lezine.
Now Matters Now: An initiative helping those currently experiencing thoughts of suicide and providing skills to cope, maintain, and build resilience.
Engaging People with Lived Experience: A Toolkit for Organizations (SPRC): This toolkit has been developed to assist organizations and agencies leading suicide prevention programs in their communities with recruiting and engaging individuals with lived experience. It may also be useful for other organizations and agencies working in suicide prevention and care.
Resources for Developing a Presentation
Best Practices for Presentations by Suicide Loss and Suicide Attempt Survivors [PDF]
Suicide Attempt Survivor Support Groups
Manual for Support Groups for Suicide Attempt Survivors: This detailed guide by Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services in Los Angeles has been listed in the Suicide Prevention Resource Center’s best practice registry.
Supports for families and friends
A Guide for Taking Care of Your Family Member After Treatment in the Emergency Department
How to Talk to a Child about a Suicide Attempt in your Family
Attempt survivors in the media
AAS has extensive experience working as partners with media professionals. For press inquiries, please contact press@suicidology.org for more information.