Suicide Loss Survivors Come Together for Day of Remembrance

IN A NUTSHELL:

• Day introduced by Sen. Harry Reid in 1999

• Event helps people affected by suicide

• Always held Saturday before Thanksgiving

Written by Ayan Monpara, MD

Each year, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention supports hundreds of International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day events around the world.

The events allow suicide loss survivors an opportunity to come together and find connection, understanding and hope through their shared experience. This year’s event takes place on Saturday, November 23, 2019.

In 1999, Senator Harry Reid, who lost his father to suicide, introduced a resolution to the U.S. Senate which led to the creation of International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. Also known as Survivor Day, the day was designated by Congress as a day on which those affected by suicide can join together for healing and support.

It was determined that Survivor Day would always fall on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, as the holidays are often a difficult time for suicide loss survivors.

In 2018, around 370 events took place in 19 countries.

Contact: Anyone with any questions can email survivorday@afsp.org for more information.

More information: Find a Survivor Day event near you by visiting the AFSP website.

Resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline available 24/7:  1-800-273-8255