7 Instagram Accounts to Follow During National Suicide Prevention Week
Each year, nearly 800,000 people worldwide end their lives by suicide. While it can be uncomfortable and even scary to discuss the topic, it’s critical that we make suicide part of the mainstream conversation. Talking about suicide can help raise awareness, reduce stigma, let people who are struggling know they’re not alone, and ultimately help prevent deaths of despair.
In support of National Suicide Prevention Week, which takes place from September 10 to 16, here are seven Instagram accounts to follow for suicide prevention and awareness resources—plus, stories of resilience. We hope these accounts will help empower you with information and contribute to a sense of optimism this week and beyond.
1. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (@afspnational)
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention was founded in 1987 with the mission to “save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.” AFSP was the first national nonprofit that sought to understand and prevent suicide through research, education, and advocacy. Now, the foundation has a chapter in every U.S. state and uses its Instagram platform to share uplifting messages, mental health resources and tips, and other important information about suicide prevention and awareness. Plus, if you’re in need of a motivational phone wallpaper, the organization’s colorful quotes and positive affirmations have you covered.
2. To Write Love on Her Arms (@twloha)
To Write Love on Her Arms is a nonprofit movement that “exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and invest directly into treatment and recovery” for those experiencing addiction, depression, self-injury, and suicidal thoughts. The organization’s Instagram provides hope and offers resources and strategies for finding help and healing.
3. Crisis Text Line (@crisistextline)
Crisis Text Line offers free and confidential mental health support through text for those in need of immediate help or those who may be in the midst of a moment of despair. Crisis Text Line’s account regularly shares posts spotlighting its text line, as well as self-care strategies, like positive affirmations to try and steps to take if you’re coping with trauma. The organization will infuse your feed with posts about inspiring people who’ve spoken out about mental health, along with encouraging words and information about how to prioritize mental health and help others do the same.
4. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (@988lifeline)
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a network of more than 180 24/7 crisis centers dedicated to helping people who are experiencing suicidal behavior and emotional distress. Its feed is filled with inspirational quotes and reminders that each of us is doing the best we can—and our best is more than good enough. You’ll also find information on resources, ranging from helplines offered in American Sign Language to information for those who’ve experienced natural or human-caused disasters.
5. Hope for the Day (@hopefortheday)
Looking to help shatter the stigma around suicide? Hope for the Day focuses on suicide prevention and “breaking the silence around mental health” through the powerful mediums of art and music. Press the Follow button and you’ll find posts about the organization’s outreach efforts, like its free yoga sessions and pop-up events at concerts like Lollapalooza. You’ll also find a fair share of educational posts on how to support those who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts—and how to take action.
6. The Trevor Project (@trevorproject)
Founded in 1998, The Trevor Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to suicide prevention among LGBTQ+ youth. Though its Instagram is a hub for beautiful, inspiring illustrations and artwork, it is also home to an array of information focused on gender identity, allyship, and how to talk about and prevent suicide within the LGBTQ+ community. You can also access “The TrevorLifeline,” a free and confidential help line for LGBTQ+ youth in crisis.
7. Grassroots Suicide Prevention (@grassrootssp)
If you’re specifically interested in supporting those who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts or behavior, you’ll want to follow Grassroots Suicide Prevention. The UK-based organization aims to help people “develop the skills and confidence needed to save lives.” Grassroots Suicide Prevention often posts bite-size tips on topics such as how to talk to someone who is struggling, how to cope with overwhelm, and how to cope with mental health challenges.
Where to Get Help
If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally or having a hard time, these organizations may provide assistance:
Lifeline Call: 988
“TALK” to 741-741
The TrevorLifeline – serving members of the LGBTQ+ community ages 25 and under
Call: 866-488-7386
Text “START” to 678-678
Suicide Prevention Resource Center
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