Suicide Survivors Day: November 21, 2009

Historian Arnold Toynbee once wrote, "There are always two parties to a death; the person who dies and the survivors who are bereaved."

Because of the social stigma surrounding suicide, survivors feel the pain of the loss, yet may not know how, or where, or if, they should express it. Yet, the only way to heal is to mourn. Just like other bereaved persons grieving the loss of someone loved, suicide survivors need to talk, to cry, sometimes to scream, in order to heal.

November 21 will be a day of healing and empowerment for those who have lost someone to suicide. Organizations around the world will be hosting events and discussions designed to educate, heal, support, and empower as part of the Annual Survivors of Suicide Day. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention will host a 90-minute webcast at 1 p.m. Eastern Time that will feature experts and survivors. A live online chat will follow. For more information, visit http://www.afsp.org/survivorday Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov 

For additional information on Suicide Prevention, please see the IHS American Indian and Alaska Native Suicide Prevention website.