Suicide Prevention Awareness Month [SIV457] 

8/27/16: National suicide rates are rising and in Vermont, suicide rates are 30% higher than the national average. The month of September is devoted to suicide prevention and awareness to help educate the public, destigmatize mental health issues and provide resources to those in need.

Eva talked to three Vermonters - a daughter, a mother and a husband - who each lost loved ones to suicide. Kevin Cunningham, Paul Brana and Cheryl Hanna were well-known and well-loved members of their communities. Their sudden deaths in the summer of 2014 were a surprise to many and devastated their families and friends.

Vermont Representative Anne Donahue is a suicide attempt survivor who has been open about her struggles with depression. Eva talked to Anne about her work as a mental health advocate who helps others by supporting patients' rights in the legislature and by editing Counterpoint, a mental health newspaper.

Eva discussed suicide warning signals with mental health experts and learned about how people can get help. While everyone's story is unique, suicide reaches all socioeconomic groups and can affect anyone. The overwhelming majority of suicides are preventable and sometimes one conversation can change a life.

If you or someone you know is depressed or suicidal, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK

For information about suicide prevention for Vermonters, contact Vermont Suicide Prevention Center

You can contribute to the Paul Brana Memorial Fund

Music

Hoagy Carmichael, "Skylark" Performed by The Jake Whitesell / Andrew Moroz Sextet and featuring Jake Whitesell - alto sax, Paul Brana - trumpet, Matt Avery - trombone, Andrew Moroz - piano, Robinson Morse - bass, Geza Carr - drums

This episode of Stuck in Vermont was made possible by

Hotel Vermont and Vermont Tourism