Health professionals declare national emergency in childrenโs mental health
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) and the Childrenโs Hospital Association (CHA) are joining together to declare a National State of Emergency in Childrenโs Mental Health.
Hope Squad program in schools help teens identify peers at suicide risk
Now, thereโs an evidence-based program that taps teens to identify peers who could be at suicide risk. Both were selected for an innovative program in their Ohio high schools called Hope Squad. Wright-Berryman is the lead data researcher for Hope Squad, which is in 800 high schools nationwide. Wright-Berryman says studies show the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide is much lower in Hope Squad schools compared to those without programs. Thereโs more information on the hope squad website at www.hopesquad.com and if you are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Survivors of Suicide Loss Day to promote healing, understanding during virtual event
โItโs important, really important, for people to know that suicide doesnโt define the person,โ she said. AFSP-South Texas hosts a Survivor Day event every Nov. 21. Suicide prevention groups call those suffering the loss of a loved one โsurvivors.โ So Cruz said, as a survivor, itโs healing to participate. US suicide rate fell last year after decade of steady riseThe Survivor Day event will include keynote speakers, survivor stories, group sessions and a guided expressive art exercise. Some of the things we can use are โbereaved by suicideโ or they โdied by suicideโ or you โlost a loved one to suicide,โโ she said.
San Antonio psychologist predicts increase in suicidal thinking as pandemic progresses
SAN ANTONIO As the COVID-19 pandemic continues and shows no sign of ending anytime soon, the growing concern over the topic of suicide is increasing nationwide, according to a San Antonio clinical psychologist. Our bodies are really good with dealing with short-term stress, but long-term stress (makes) our bodies get exhausted. These calls are related to COVID-19 social isolation and the effects of that. She said risk factors promoted by the pandemic include:DepressionAnxietySocial isolationMoney IssuesFeeling like a burden to other peopleAlcohol and substance abuseWe know that substance abuse is increasing significantly during this pandemic, Bira said. We just need to come together and promote resiliency.Ways to seek help if you are experiencing suicidal thoughts: