International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day
Every year, the Saturday before Thanksgiving marks International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day (ISOSLD), a day recognized by the U.S. Congress for friends and family who have lost a loved one to suicide to come together for healing, reflection, and connection. Established in 1999 by Senator Harry Reid, a survivor of his father’s suicide, this day acknowledges the unique challenges of the holidays for those grieving and offers a safe space for support.
Mental Health America of Greenville County (MHAGC) has been part of this healing journey for decades. Since 1990, the organization has hosted its Survivors of Suicide Loss (SOS Loss) support group, meeting on the first and third Tuesday of every month. Sign up is available at https://www.mhagc.org/survivors-of-suicide-loss/. MHAGC has also hosted an annual Survivor Day event since 2004, giving survivors an opportunity to connect, honor their loved ones, and begin healing together.
This year, MHAGC will host its Survivor Day event on Saturday, November 22nd, at 9 a.m., featuring a breakfast, a documentary screening, and a moderated discussion with fellowship—all designed to create a compassionate space for reflection and connection.
AFSP supports hundreds of Survivor Day events worldwide, each offering programs that center on healing and resilience. For those unable to attend in person, livestreams and Día de Esperanza (support for Spanish-speaking communities) ensure everyone has access to support.
Suicide remains a leading cause of death, but it is preventable. Everyone can play a role: make mental health a priority, reach out to loved ones, recognize warning signs, and encourage treatment. Through education, advocacy, and support, MHAGC and AFSP work together to create a culture that is smart about mental health—and to remind survivors that healing is possible.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, trained counselors are available 24/7—call or text 988. You can additionally chat or use live ASL at 988SC.org.
