2025-2026 Public policy priorities
The following four overarching pillars will guide AFSP’s public policy and advocacy priorities for the next biennium. Download to read the full report.
Services and Care
Geographic and social isolation, inadequate access to health care providers or facilities, and social stigma can all contribute to suicide risk.
This priority pillar includes 988 and crisis services, healthcare systems, workforce expansion, and mental health parity.
Lethal Means Safety
Lethal means safety is among the most effective ways to reduce suicide attempts and deaths. It is characterized by putting time and distance between a person at risk for suicide and lethal means or methods of suicide.
This priority pillar includes firearms; architectural barriers and structures; and medications, toxic chemicals, and other substances.
Research and Infrastructure
Designing and implementing effective national and state suicide prevention strategies requires a comprehensive understanding of who is dying by suicide and when.
This priority pillar includes state infrastructure and federal investment.
Disproportionately Affected Communities and Populations
AFSP fights against discriminatory policies and seeks to learn from and with diverse individuals and communities how to best promote mental health and prevent suicide in underserved areas.
This priority pillar includes first responders, corrections staff, and healthcare workers; LGBTQ individuals and communities; servicemembers, Veterans, and their families; individuals who come into contact with the criminal legal system; children, teens, and young adults; and pregnant and postpartum individuals.