International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP)

Mission:
IASP is dedicated to preventing suicide and suicidal behaviour and to alleviating its effects worldwide. The organization envisions a compassionate world, free of suicide, and works to advance suicide prevention through advocacy, research, education, and collaboration.

Services and Activities:

• Global Advocacy: IASP leads and supports international efforts to decriminalize suicide and suicidal behaviour, working with governments, NGOs, and professional associations to promote policy change and reduce stigma.
• Knowledge Sharing: The organization provides a comprehensive knowledge hub, including policy positions, research, and evidence-based resources for advocates, policymakers, and practitioners.
• Special Interest Groups: IASP hosts groups focused on topics such as intellectual disability, autism, neurodiversity, and suicide in women and girls, fostering specialized research and support networks.
• Events and Congresses: IASP organizes the World Congress and other international events, offering opportunities for networking, professional development, and sharing best practices in suicide prevention.
• Resource Development: The organization curates and disseminates resources such as language guidelines, crisis support directories, podcasts, and journals to support suicide prevention efforts globally.
• Campaigns and Initiatives: Flagship initiatives like "Partnerships for Life" and "World Suicide Prevention Day" mobilize communities and stakeholders to raise awareness and take action.
• COVID-19 Response: IASP provides targeted resources addressing the intersection of the pandemic and suicidal behaviour, including information on self-harm and mental health challenges.

Who They Serve:

IASP serves a global audience, including mental health professionals, researchers, advocates, policymakers, and individuals affected by suicide. While not a direct service provider for individual counseling, the organization supports those seeking information, resources, and advocacy tools related to suicide prevention.

Eligibility and Access:

IASP's resources, publications, and events are accessible to the public, with some membership benefits available for those who join the association. The organization does not provide direct crisis counseling but offers links to crisis centres and helplines.

Service Area:

IASP operates internationally and its resources are accessible to residents of Louisa County, VA, and surrounding regions, as well as to a global audience.