A national strategy to prevent suicide is a comprehensive and integrated approach to reducing the loss and suffering from suicide and suicidal behaviors across the life course. It encompasses the promotion, coordination, and support of activities that will be implemented across the country as culturally appropriate, integrated programs for suicide prevention among Americans at national, regional, tribal, and community levels. A broad public/private partnership is essential for developing and implementing a national strategy. Interwoven within a national strategy are three key ingredients for action to improve suicide prevention: a knowledge base, the public will to support change and generate resources, and a social strategy to accomplish change. The National Strategy incorporates 11 goals and objectives for action, including: (1) promote awareness that suicide is a public health problem that is preventable; (2) develop and implement strategies to reduce the stigma associated with being a consumer of mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention services; (3) develop and implement community-based suicide prevention programs; (4) implement training for recognizing at-risk behavior; and (5) develop and promote effective clinical and professional practices. Figures, tables, references, appendixes