Many readers wonder how to broach the topic of suicide [prevention] with their kids after the loss of a loved one or when learning their child is at-risk. Today’s guest blogger, Sarah, became a prevention advocate after watching her daughter struggle with suicidal thoughts and addiction and offers tips for initiating a careful discussion.
“Teens keep suicidal thoughts a secret from their parents for all kinds of reasons. It wasn’t until a few ...
Suicide: Are you joking?
This week, we welcome guest blogger Katherine Sargent to our site. Katherine talks about the many innuendos in society that cause a great deal of pain for survivors of a suicide loss. I know that I personally cringe when I see and hear them used in a joking matter. Thank you Katherine for speaking up, and helping educate society on what is and what isn't ok.
This blog title is very deep and may even elicit a response like, “Why would ...
The Importance of the Semicolon Tattoo
In a matter of days, the semicolon tattoo has become an overnight sensation. For those who have not heard of the The Semicolon Movement, it was created on Tumblr "to restore hope and confidence in people who are troubled by addiction, depression, self-harm, and suicide." It is a way to tell the world, "my story isn't finished yet." Since its introduction, many have chosen to permanently place the semicolon tattoo on themselves as an everyday ...
Shame on You! Fighting the Stigma of Mental Illness
This week we welcome guest writer, Maggie White, who lost her brother to suicide. Maggie offers a unique perspective as she is not only a survivor, but someone living with mental illness. Born and raised on Chicago’s south side, Maggie resides in Downers Grove, Illinois, with her husband, Sean and their five children, Colin, Moira, Shannon, Aileen and Patrick. She has just published her first children’s book A Christmas Guest, a story which ...
National Suicide Prevention Week 2014
This week, Sept. 8-14, 2014, marks National Suicide Prevention Week. Each year, leading organizations on the topic are able to use this week as a platform to inform and remind survivors or those who may be worried about a loved one of warnings signs or measures they can take to help save lives.
National Suicide Prevention Week comes at an interesting time this year. Having just experienced the loss of Robin Williams, suicide (and prevention) ...