One Conversation Can Change a Life

September is suicide prevention and awareness month. And it is so important to start a conversation and help promote resources and awareness on the prevention of suicide. It is important to learn how to talk about this sensitive issue without increasing harm.

Mental illness can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race, religion. The effects can leave one feeling lost and alone and without help. But it is okay to get help. Without help individuals are left vulnerable.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death in the US. It is so important to know the warning signs and when and how to get help.






Warning signs:

Threats or comments about killing themselves, also known as suicidal ideation, can begin with seemingly harmless thoughts like “I wish I wasn’t here” but can become more overt and dangerous

Increased alcohol and drug use

Aggressive behavior

Social withdrawal from friends, family and the community

Dramatic mood swings

Talking, writing or thinking about death

Impulsive or reckless behavior

- See more at: http://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Mental-Health-Conditions/Related-Conditions/Risk-of-Suicide#sthash.BpriPCWz.dpuf

It is important to know when to get help. But most importantly if you or you think someone you know is suffering, please reach out immediately. Prevention is the best cure.


Some great organizations to get help:

Take a minute and share what you know. Awareness on such a serious issue is important. We need to learn how to talk about these tough issues so we can all join in on preventing them.

Best to all,

Becca

Saying Goodbye to Summer

So Labor Day is here. Officially it is a holiday in which we celebrate the dedication of social and economic advancements of the American worker. Unofficially, though, it is the end of summer. I know, I know, summer doesn't really end until September 22 when the fall solstice comes upon us. However, by Labor Day all the local pools shut down, our summer camping gear gets packed up, the RVs return to their storage lot, the days are shorter and cooler, and almost all kids have returned to school.

Don't get me wrong, I like fall--I like fall a lot. Especially in Colorado. The leaves turn a beautiful shade of yellow, orange, and red. The air gets crisp and cool. And most of all, things start to die off and my allergies calm down a bit. (I'm actually looking forward to that this year...what a season and the first freeze really helps with that. It also helps kill all the bugs...which is nice) Regardless of how much I love the fall, I always feel sad when this time of year comes. I love summer, and I mean LOVE summer.

Summer brings warmth and longer days. And I like to fill those days with fun outdoor activities. I know that in Colorado you can be outdoors almost all year long, but there is something about being able to just sit outside and not have to bundle up. In summer, there are concerts at the park, picnics, swimming, neighborhood parties. (Where in the winter, everyone snuggles up inside their own homes on those long, dark evening.) I love hanging out back and having a fire and roasting marshmallows with my family. And I love to hike. I hike in the winter, but in the summer I don't have to worry about how many layers to wear...a pair of shorts and a tee works just fine. And of course, I love to take the top of my jeep and go for mountain drives.

Summer makes me happy. 

So here we are...Labor Day has come around and I have must say goodbye to my favorite season and all the fun things I love to do during it...like hiking, rafting, swimming, biking, etc. And I have to put the top back on the jeep...bummer.

I'll embrace the upcoming seasons...I always do. But for now--Goodbye Summer! I'll miss ya until next year.

Happy Labor Day to all. Enjoy your weekend! 

Best to you all,

Becca