International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is an event in which survivors of suicide loss come together to find connection, understanding, and hope through their shared experience. This year, International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is Saturday, November 19, 2022. You can find a current list of registrations here. Event registration is ongoing until October 1 so check back with us if you don’t see an event nearby. If you have questions please contact your local AFSP chapter or email survivorday@afsp.org.
In 1999, Senator Harry Reid, who lost his father to suicide, introduced a resolution to the United States Senate, leading to the creation of International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. Also known as Survivor Day, the day was designated by the United States 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 American Thanksgiving, as the holidays are often a difficult time for suicide loss survivors.
Personally, I have attended a few International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day events and found them to be emotional and impactful, yet also full of hope. If you are interested and have a chance to attend one of these events at least once, I encourage you to do so. Of course, while this one day is particularly called out, being a suicide loss survivor happens every day. However, it can be encouraging to be around others who “get it” and understand where you are coming from, even if only for a day. No matter what, you are not alone, and support like this day is available.