Voices For Suicide Prevention

Scott Light

The suicide crisis in Ohio and in America has no boundaries and neither will our conversations. We'll talk openly about the how, the why and the solutions to suicide prevention. This vital conversation is brought to you by the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation as we'll highlight experts, counselors, clinicians, advocates and ordinary people doing extraordinary things in the name of saving lives. read less

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More farmers are dying by suicide. The Ohio Department of Agriculture has 'got your back'

More farmers are dying by suicide. The Ohio Department of Agriculture has 'got your back'

Data doesn't lie. Agriculture is Ohio's biggest industry. $124 BILLION-plus in economic output every year. But there's another number on which we want to focus too; according to the National Rural Health Association, farmers are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. In Ohio, from a 2022 survey of farmers here, 1 in 10 had an at-risk score on a depression screening tool which indicated they had a higher risk of experiencing depression. It's believed that 1 in 10 figure is under-reported too. Here to talk about it is Ohio's Agriculture Director, Brian Baldridge, a farmer himself and someone who absolutely knows firsthand the myriad stressors facing the agriculture industry. Among many tools and resources, his department has a dedicated campaign called 'Got Your Back' which OSPF is proud to be part of. Director Baldridge also discusses how farmers and agriculture producers of this generation and the next can continue to make their voices heard for better mental health and suicide prevention. After all, these are our family, friends and neighbors who put food on our tables every single day; let's support them both professionally and personally!

Episodes

More farmers are dying by suicide. The Ohio Department of Agriculture has 'got your back'

More farmers are dying by suicide. The Ohio Department of Agriculture has 'got your back'

Data doesn't lie. Agriculture is Ohio's biggest industry. $124 BILLION-plus in economic output every year. But there's another number on which we want to focus too; according to the National Rural Health Association, farmers are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. In Ohio, from a 2022 survey of farmers here, 1 in 10 had an at-risk score on a depression screening tool which indicated they had a higher risk of experiencing depression. It's believed that 1 in 10 figure is under-reported too. Here to talk about it is Ohio's Agriculture Director, Brian Baldridge, a farmer himself and someone who absolutely knows firsthand the myriad stressors facing the agriculture industry. Among many tools and resources, his department has a dedicated campaign called 'Got Your Back' which OSPF is proud to be part of. Director Baldridge also discusses how farmers and agriculture producers of this generation and the next can continue to make their voices heard for better mental health and suicide prevention. After all, these are our family, friends and neighbors who put food on our tables every single day; let's support them both professionally and personally!

A mom gets real about difficult pregnancies, postpartum depression and suicidal ideation

A mom gets real about difficult pregnancies, postpartum depression and suicidal ideation

March is Women's History Month and for a long time in history, women have heard things like this when it comes to pregnancy, parenthood and postpartum depression: 'Isn't being pregnant just the best?' 'It's just the baby blues, it'll go away on its own.' 'Postpartum depression will likely lead to bad parenting.' Fact: PPD is a mental health condition, and no mother is weak or a poor parent if they experience it. It's actually just the opposite. Moms (and dads) who speak up and share their experiences break stigmas, help other parents and ultimately help babies, families and drive better health outcomes. We're doing just that with OSPF's Associate Director, Molly Mottram, who shares her real, unvarnished stories about difficult pregnancies, postpartum depression and finding her strength in both. Plus, as always, we share resources where you or someone you know, or love can get help.

NBC 4 journalist, advocate and CEO on her faith-based journey to better mental health

NBC 4 journalist, advocate and CEO on her faith-based journey to better mental health

Just about every time Jordyn Peaks speaks out about her suicide attempt, she breaks stigmas, which is why we're so grateful she shared her story with us and with you for our February episode. She's heard this in one form or another many times, 'You're on TV, you're smart, beautiful and so driven, how could you have a suicide scare?' Truth is, anyone can. Jordyn talks openly about her journey: the darkness, the tears and the lights that finally shone through and led the way for her to achieve so much. Those lights are many: her family, friends and faith just to name a few. Speaking of, Jordyn's mother, Alicia, joins the episode to share her perspective from a parent's point of view. We're also honored to have such two powerful guests to reflect on February's designation as Black History Month.

Recovery Ohio meets Ohioans where they are in mental health and substance misuse

Recovery Ohio meets Ohioans where they are in mental health and substance misuse

The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation is so proud to kick off another year of 'Voices for Suicide Prevention' to break stigmas, break barriers and save lives. We're doing it in grand fashion too with new co-host, Rachel Tilson, OSPF's Director of Development. Rachel has a personal and powerful story to tell, and you'll hear it in this episode. Our guest this month is the Director of Recovery Ohio, Aimee Shadwick, who has a powerful story to share as well. She's been on the front lines of mental health and addiction services advocacy for decades at local, regional and state levels. The director also talks candidly about finding even deeper inspiration for this work from a close family member who experienced addiction. Plus, find out what Ohio is doing to recruit and retain professionals to these fields so when our friends, family members and neighbors are in need, they can get help.

'Man Therapy' is just that. And yet, so much more.

'Man Therapy' is just that. And yet, so much more.

Legendary news anchor Ron Burgundy, Parks and Rec's Ron Swanson and Man Therapy's Dr. Rich Mahogany. What's that? Dr. Mahogany not quite ringing a bell? Well, it's time you met him and in this episode you will! What do these manly men have in common besides awesome mustaches? They're all characters meant to make us both laugh and look in the mirror. Dr. Mahogany is actually the main character for a very real, effective (and yes, funny) mental health campaign called Man Therapy. In this episode, you'll hear from one of its driving creative forces and plus get to know OSPF's Program Director, Austin Lucas. Man Therapy has some levity to it but its core message is straight-up serious business; men die by suicide more than women and are often un-prepared or worse, shunned if they come forward with a mental health challenge. Join us in changing this dynamic by one podcast, one person, and even one laugh at a time.

Hispanic culture is American culture. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month while recognizing cultural mental health challenges

Hispanic culture is American culture. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month while recognizing cultural mental health challenges

Have you ever worn a cowboy hat or boots? Ever ordered barbeque at a restaurant or hickory smoked some ribs 'low and slow' on your own? Cowboy hats didn't originate in Texas and barbeque didn't come from the South. All of these things and so many more originated from Latin, Spanish and Hispanic cultures in other countries. We celebrate that in today's episode with a powerful and poignant leader who's a proud Columbian American. Michelle Vargas is Director of the Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition at Mental Health America of Ohio. We lift up this month for other vital reasons as too many Hispanic Ohioans and Americans don't have access to mental health services and there's a disproportionate number of young Hispanics, especially, reporting suicidal ideation and attempts. Michelle also discusses different stigmas and stereotypical challenges these cultures face plus how to address these challenges through empathy, awareness and kindness.

Messages of hope from survivors

Messages of hope from survivors

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to reflect on our efforts across the state, spread awareness, and end stigma surrounding suicide. Suicide can affect anyone – no matter their age, race, gender, or sexual orientation. And that’s important to remember, especially when you may encounter someone who is in crisis. In today’s episode, you'll hear the very real stories of survivors and their messages of hope and guidance for all of us as we continue to do this work. Content warning: this episode features personal details about suicidal thoughts and actions. If this is something that you feel might to be triggering, we highly recommend you skip past this episode. If you or someone you know is in need of support, please call or text 988.

'It's not a fair fight.' A new movement launches to help parents and kids with cyber addiction and bullying

'It's not a fair fight.' A new movement launches to help parents and kids with cyber addiction and bullying

Christine Vineis builds big things. She's done it her whole career and now she's taking on cyber addiction with her grassroots movement, Families Against Social Media Addiction. As she simply and powerfully says, 'it's not a fair fight'; from algorithms that keep us all engaged to the U.S. Surgeon General with his recent warning that there isn't enough data to even say if social media is safe for young, growing minds. Evidence is mounting that social media is a driving factor in the mental health of young people and negative experiences online are leading to increased self-harm and suicide. We need to do more and that's Chris' goal. It begins with awareness, which leads to activating voices, which then leads to change. Parents also need more tools and resources, and that's part of this campaign too. Listen right now and join a movement with burgeoning roots here in Ohio!

Meet an Americorps Vista changing minds and perceptions on mental health and suicide prevention

Meet an Americorps Vista changing minds and perceptions on mental health and suicide prevention

Learn the name Fatimah Kobo. She's going places, doing big things, shaping minds and re-shaping perceptions on mental health, especially among minority populations in Ohio. She's an Americorps Vista working with the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. The Vista program is a federal program where some 7000+ people from all backgrounds assist organizations alleviate poverty. Fatimah is also a proud Muslim and she hopes her faith, like many, will put a greater emphasis on the acceptance of mental health awareness and suicide prevention. She's talking about that very thing in her role as a Vista and at OSPF. She's also remarkably poised, open and brave when talking about her own struggles with mental health. Quite simply, Fatimah will 'go there' to break stigmas, reduce stereotypes and breakthrough with real, honest conversations. She's a leader on the rise and you heard her here first!

The Trevor Project and OSPF talk data, research and responses from thousands of LGBTQ+ youth

The Trevor Project and OSPF talk data, research and responses from thousands of LGBTQ+ youth

The Trevor Project has done and continues to do so much every day for LGBTQ+ youth: from research to crisis services to education to Trevor Space, this organization is there 24/7. (They've even won an Academy Award!) Trevor's Public Training Manager, Keygan Miller, joins this episode to talk about the state of mental health and suicide prevention for young people. They know this stuff. As a former classroom educator, Keygan's passion is education, listening, learning and empathy. Plus, The Trevor Project has surveyed and talked to more than 25,000 young people about what's going on in their lives: from true hopes to true struggles.

'My parents don't believe in depression.'

'My parents don't believe in depression.'

It's estimated that Asian American women are the second highest suicidal demographic and yet Asian Americans are often the least likely to receive mental health resources. There are many factors that have led to this, but if there's positivity moving forward, it's this; Asian Americans -- from actors to academics, educators to every-day people -- are talking about it. In this month's episode, Cassie and Scott talk with a leading scholar who opens up about her own challenges with depression and mental health. Dr. Pata Suyemoto is also Training Director for the National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association so she's helping to lead the charge to break stigma, engage leaders, and set a new course. You'll also hear from actress Anna Akana who lost her sister to suicide. Her grief process included everything from facing her parents antiquated thinking to creating a comedy routine and going very public about her journey.

One of the nation's leading experts on sexual violence talks prevention, college assaults and the Red Zone

One of the nation's leading experts on sexual violence talks prevention, college assaults and the Red Zone

In this episode, we talk to Tracey Vitchers, the Executive Director of 'It's On Us', whose mission is to combat sexual assault on college campuses by engaging all students, including young men, and activating the largest student organizing program of its kind in grassroots awareness and prevention. Tracey tells us how she found her calling to combat sexual violence on campus while she was on campus herself -- as young undergrad focused on Women’s Studies. She continued those studies in graduate school too, and has since launched movements, non-profits, worked in the Obama White House, and become a national voice on sexual violence, prevention, and survivor advocacy.

'The Black Box'. Understanding, talking about and breaking stigmas on traumatic brain injuries

'The Black Box'. Understanding, talking about and breaking stigmas on traumatic brain injuries

If traumatic is in the name, that can make it a subject all the more difficult to talk about. However, we must. 1 in 4 Ohioans have or will experience a traumatic brain injury and that number is likely under-reported. A TBI can result from a fall down the steps, playing a contact sport or being victimized by domestic violence. But Ohio is also fortunate in that we're producing cutting edge research into the brain that leads to effective treatment of the brain. Joining the episode are two such experts: Dr. Nicole Fornalski, a Postdoctoral Fellow in Rehabilitation Neuropsychology and Brei Miller, Program Director for the Ohio Brain Injury Program at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. They talk to Cassie and Scott about these injuries, their correlation to suicide and how you can broach this topic with someone even if they're not quite ready to discuss it.

The suicide crisis in African Black communities is rising. Let's give it the seriousness it deserves.

The suicide crisis in African Black communities is rising. Let's give it the seriousness it deserves.

Numbers and data don't lie. Compared to White communities, African Black communities experience more suicides and known factors that lead to them like increased exposure to violence and decreased access to mental health care. This episode is dedicated to exploring that data because behind every statistic is a person, with family, friends, co-workers and neighbors. Cassie and Scott talk with one of the leading voices in Ohio and nationally, former State Senator Charleta Tavares, about a crisis not getting the attention it deserves and what we ALL can do about it.

Strides in suicide prevention and the work still to be done

Strides in suicide prevention and the work still to be done

2022 brought about the launch of 988, and the continuing effort to bring suicide prevention and mental health under the overall scope of everyone's health care. Today's episode features OSPF Executive Director, Tony Coder, and new COO, Molly Mottram. Together, they look back at strides made last year and work that continues this year. You'll also hear new details on plans by OSPF to bring suicide prevention awareness to more Ohioans especially in communities of color. Plus, Tony and Molly find inspiration from another state trying a different approach to crisis care and saving taxpayer dollars too!

An Ohio veteran opens up about a suicide attempt, coming home from war and life-saving therapy

An Ohio veteran opens up about a suicide attempt, coming home from war and life-saving therapy

If you read Danny Eakins resume, you'd immediately say, 'Now, that's a life of service to others.' He rose to the rank of Major in the U.S. Military, led a tank platoon in some 300 combat missions in Iraq, he's Governor DeWine's Team Leader for the National Governor's Challenge to Prevent Suicide among Veterans, Service Members and Families, an appointee to the Franklin County Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Board and Danny is also a frequent public speaker on behalf of veterans’ advocacy. He's recently remarried and enjoying life as a step-father too. What his resume doesn't say (or anyone's for that matter) is why he's such a fierce advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. It's because he's walked that path of a suicide attempt, loneliness, physical and mental pain, but found professional help and a supportive community to persevere through dark times. In this podcast, he talks about all of it in candid, raw honesty that'll leave you inspired, grateful and hopefully more empathic to others in need.

'Depression feels like an old friend visiting me.' How to recognize, treat and live fully with depression.

'Depression feels like an old friend visiting me.' How to recognize, treat and live fully with depression.

October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month and this episode is dedicated to just that; talking about depression as the debilitating influence it can be and the myriad ways millions of people have embraced living with it, treating it and overcoming it. Our two guests walk this walk every day in their personal and professional lives and bravely share their lived experiences with you. Cassie Martindell is Communications Directors for the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation and Bailey Fullwiler is Statewide Mental Health First Aid Program Manager for Mental Health America of Ohio. After listening to this episode, you'll be inspired to look in the mirror, reflect on your own life, seek help, help a friend or maybe all of the above. https://www.ohiospf.org/ https://mhaohio.org/

OSPF's 'Art of Healing Benefit' is truly that

OSPF's 'Art of Healing Benefit' is truly that

The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation has launched many firsts and will do so again September 29th for the first ever, Art of Healing Benefit for Suicide Prevention. This semi-formal dinner presented by White Castle is mission driven with a purpose of breaking stigmas around suicide through the healing power of art. In this episode, you'll meet an Ohio executive and artist who bravely shares the loss of her husband and the 3 pieces of art she created to signify that journey. White Castle’s chief manufacturing officer, Dave Rife, also bravely shares the story of losing his adult son to suicide just a few years ago and why this is such an important mission for the franchise. You'll be inspired by both of these people and inspired to continue to break stigmas around mental health and suicide prevention.

'Our kids brains aren't equipped to fight this battle.'

'Our kids brains aren't equipped to fight this battle.'

The title of this month's episode is a quote from our guest but it has nothing to do with fighting the battle of suicidology or suicide prevention. It's fighting the battle of a 24/7 'screen world'. We're so fortunate to have Nationwide Children's Hospital Clinical Psychologist, Dr. John Ackerman, to join and explain what is happening to those young brains that are constantly exposed to information, media, social media and digital interaction. Dr. Ackerman leads Nationwide's Center for Suicide Prevention and Research and also led a group of clinicians and professors (Ohio University) in developing new guidelines for journalists when they're reporting on suicide. He talks with host, Scott Light, about suicide and perceptions in journalism and thus, the public's broader perception of suicide.

Take off the mask that is 'Midwest niceness'

Take off the mask that is 'Midwest niceness'

By no means are we saying, 'don't be nice'. Of course not. But for our latest episode dedicated to youth mental health, you'll hear from a man whose family name is associated with comedic genius and tragic heartbreak. Tom Farley is also a Midwesterner through and through so you'll have to stay tuned and hear his 'Midwestern mask' comment for yourself. Tom has toured the country for years talking to young people about addiction and mental health. He's a father, writer, entertainer and brother to the late Chris Farley of SNL and movie fame. Also joining us is Dr. Sarah Denny from Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University and the American Academy of Pediatrics. She brings her clinical and medical expertise plus advice and even her insecurities to the conversation as a mother of teenagers. Sarah and Tom also talk with host, Scott Light, about finding outlets: whether creative, athletic, quiet or whatever outlet you may need and want. Just find it. Even for a few minutes a day.