Advocates Converge on Washington to Push for Suicide Prevention
National Forum Aims to Impact Federal Mental Health Policy
Nearly 250 advocates are gathering in Washington, D.C., this weekend to lobby Congress for increased support of suicide prevention initiatives and mental healthcare access. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Annual Advocacy Forum, running June 22-25, will bring together individuals impacted by suicide to share their stories and urge legislative action.
Legislative Priorities Take Center Stage
The advocates will focus on two key bills: the Saving Our Veterans Lives Act and the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Reauthorization Act. These legislative efforts aim to address rising suicide rates among vulnerable populations, including veterans and healthcare professionals.
According to the CDC, suicide rates among U.S. adults increased by 3% between 2021 and 2022, highlighting the urgent need for expanded mental health resources. CDC Data on Suicide Rates
“AFSP and its network of Volunteer Advocates are at the forefront of fighting to save lives at the federal, state and local levels of government,”
—Laurel Stine, AFSP Executive Vice President and Chief Policy & Advocacy Officer
Focus on Vulnerable Communities
The Forum’s agenda emphasizes populations disproportionately affected by suicide. Scott Rising, chair of AFSP’s Public Policy Council and National Board Member, stated, “Every year the Advocacy Forum is a powerful opportunity to show the breadth of people in the United States impacted by suicide. We’re honored that people who struggle, allies and survivors of suicide loss band with AFSP to share their stories directly with their legislators and each other to help enact change that will save lives.”
Key Speakers to Address Advocates
The event will feature addresses from members of Congress, including The Honorable Maxwell Frost (FL) and The Honorable Debbie Dingell (MI). Experts like J. Corey Feist, founder of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, and Bob Gebbia, CEO of AFSP, will also share insights.
Additional speakers include Retired Army Master Sgt. Chris Allen, Katie Dapper, The Honorable Chris Deluzio, The Honorable Dick Durbin, David Jobes, The Honorable Tim Kaine, Samantha Koehler, The Honorable Markwayne Mullin, Paul Nestadt, The Honorable Jay Obernolte, Jon Retzer, and Laurel Stine.
Recognizing Champions of Suicide Prevention
AFSP will present its Allies in Action Awards to legislators and staff members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to suicide prevention. Honorees include Tyler Allard, Jill Boland, The Honorable Mike Lawler, The Honorable Mike Levin, The Honorable Jerry Moran, The Honorable Jack Reed, Jenny Tang, and Laura Titus.
The Forum’s educational sessions and speaker presentations will be shared on AFSP’s Facebook and YouTube channels. Individuals can support AFSP’s legislative priorities and contact their representatives through the AFSP Action Center.
For a complete schedule and speaker list, visit the 2025 Advocacy Forum webpage. More information about AFSP’s work with veterans and healthcare workers is available on their policy priorities page.