Christian Association for Survivors of Suicide Loss

01/06/2026

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has issued a new safety advisory urging a nationwide review and analysis of safety performance data related to trespassing and su***de events on rail systems. According to the advisory, incidents involving rail trespassing and su***de have risen dramatically, by 71% for major events, 70% for fatalities, and 65% for injuries between 2016 and 2024. These tragedies now account for half of all transit-related fatalities reported in 2024. The FTA’s call to action directs state safety oversight agencies and rail transit operators to use Safety Management Systems to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement mitigation strategies to prevent such events. The advisory highlights the emotional toll these incidents take not only on victims and their families but also on train crews and communities, emphasizing the urgent need for prevention and mental health support.

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has issued a new safety advisory urging a nationwide review and analysis of safety performance data related to trespass

01/05/2026

LifeStance Health Foundation has partnered with the American Foundation for Su***de Prevention (AFSP) to advance mental health research with a $100,000 grant. This funding will support new clinical research focused on improving su***de prevention strategies, especially for youth and those at risk, by developing early intervention practices and predictive tools to identify individuals in crisis. Su***de remains a leading cause of death, particularly among young people, making this partnership both timely and urgent. As someone who has journeyed through the aftermath of su***de loss, it is deeply encouraging to see organizations come together to address the roots of despair with evidence-based solutions. The collaboration’s emphasis on research, education, and community action reminds us that su***de is not an isolated tragedy—it is a public health crisis that demands coordinated, compassionate responses.
Photo by rawkkim on Unsplash

Photo by rawkkim on UnsplashLifeStance Health Foundation has partnered with the American Foundation for Su***de Prevention (AFSP) to advance mental health resea

01/02/2026

The rates of suicidal thoughts among teenagers remain alarmingly high, despite some recent data indicating a slight decline. According to recent statistics, about 10% of adolescents aged 12–17 experienced serious thoughts of su***de in the past year, and 2.7% attempted su***de. These numbers are not just statistics, they represent the pain and struggles of real young people in our communities. The article highlights that su***de is now the second leading cause of death for ages 10–14 and third for teens 15–19. Particularly concerning is the steep rise among certain groups: Black youth su***des have surged 54% since 2019, and nearly 40% of LGBTQ+ teens reported seriously considering su***de in 2023. The mental health crisis among teens is exacerbated by shortages in mental healthcare providers, leaving many families and young people without adequate support.

Photo by Eliott Reyna on Unsplash

Photo by Eliott Reyna on UnsplashThe rates of suicidal thoughts among teenagers remain alarmingly high, despite some recent data indicating a slight decline. Ac

01/01/2026

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

12/30/2025

Photo by Mark Rohan on UnsplashMilwaukee County has introduced new su***de prevention signs in its parks and along the lakefront to address rising mental health concerns and su***de rates. These signs aim to reach individuals in moments of crisis by providing encouraging messages and information about the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline, a resource available 24/7 for those in need of immediate help. The decision to install these signs comes in response to sobering statistics: in 2024 alone, Milwaukee County lost 99 people to su***de, impacting more than 13,000 loved ones, friends, and community members. Each sign is a visible reminder that people are not alone, and that help is just a call or text away. Personally, I find this initiative both timely and essential. Parks are often places of beauty and solace, but for some, they can become settings for isolation or despair.

Photo by Mark Rohan on UnsplashMilwaukee County has introduced new su***de prevention signs in its parks and along the lakefront to address rising mental health

12/29/2025

Research increasingly confirms what many people experiencing suicidal thoughts already know: pets can be profound protective factors against su***de. Studies show that over a third of older adults actively contemplating su***de cited their animals as giving them a reason to live, with pet care providing purpose and comfort that mitigated devastating loneliness. For vulnerable populations, the bond with a companion animal has literally meant the difference between life and death. The mechanisms are both physiological and emotional. Spending time with pets triggers the release of endorphins and calming neurochemicals in the brain. But beyond chemistry, pets offer something profoundly spiritual: unconditional presence. They sense our emotional shifts and offer companionship without judgment, creating routine and purpose through daily care that grounds us when everything feels chaotic.

Research increasingly confirms what many people experiencing suicidal thoughts already know: pets can be profound protective factors against su***de. Studies sh

12/26/2025

12/25/2025

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders... and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." - Isaiah 9:6 NIV.

12/24/2025

Christian artist Forrest Frank recently opened up about his struggle with suicidal thoughts, sharing his journey of pain and hope with thousands of students. According to Movieguide, Frank told a crowd of 7,000 at Grand Canyon University that there were points in his life when he felt utterly hopeless and wanted to end his life. Yet, in those darkest moments, he experienced the presence of Jesus, who intervened and ultimately saved him from despair. Frank’s willingness to share his story publicly is both courageous and deeply needed in a world where mental health struggles are often kept hidden, especially within the Christian community. His testimony reminds us that even those who appear successful and joyful on the outside can wrestle with deep internal battles. Frank’s honesty about his struggles helps break the stigma around mental health and su***de, encouraging others to seek help and hold onto hope.
Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash

Photo by Jon Tyson on UnsplashChristian artist Forrest Frank recently opened up about his struggle with suicidal thoughts, sharing his journey of pain and hope

12/23/2025

Champions of Youth Ambitions (C’YA) is offering a free, one-hour, online su***de prevention training before the holidays. This virtual session is designed to equip participants with practical tools and understanding to help prevent su***de in their communities, especially during the emotionally vulnerable holiday season. The training is open to all and aims to foster awareness, connection, and support for those who may be struggling. Personal observation: The timing of this training is significant. The holidays, while joyful for many, can intensify feelings of isolation, grief, and despair for those coping with loss, especially for families who have lost loved ones to su***de. Providing accessible, community-based education helps break the silence, reduce stigma, and encourage compassionate intervention. Programs like this reflect a growing recognition that su***de prevention is a shared responsibility, requiring both knowledge and the courage to reach out.

Champions of Youth Ambitions (C’YA) is offering a free, one-hour, online su***de prevention training before the holidays. This virtual session is designed

12/23/2025

"She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins" Matthew 1:21 (NIV)