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
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This article appears in Aug 31 – Sep 6, 2016.
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Eva,
This story is so well done; thank you! My heart goes out to each of these families and all those who are suffering silently. I too lost a son to suicide 6 1/2 years ago. He was 19 and held all of the amazing characteristics that are described about of those who die by suicide. He had a great sense of humor, loved and cared for people, and masked his disease as well. My hope for people is that they DO talk about their loved ones, get educated about signs of suicide and then talk with your friends about it. It may save a life.
Blessings to you Eva (and to all of us that are left behind)
Cathleen
Thank you so much Cathleen. I’m so very sorry to hear about your son. It is heartbreaking how many people have been affected by suicide and depression. I hope that by talking about this more openly, perhaps more people will feel confident enough to come forward and ask for help when they are struggling. Thanks so much, wish you the best, Eva
Thanks to all who shared their experiences for this piece and all who reach out to help others struggling with depression. Peace and blessings
Holly Stadtler
I personally knew Paul he was an amazing man and friend he will be and is dearly missed. I loved him… Love him to pieces