Understanding Teen Suicide and Mental Health: Insights, Strategies, and Support In honor of September's Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, this episode compiles powerful and actionable insights on suicide prevention, featuring personal stories from guests like Jay Reed and initiatives by people such as Kevin Wong from The Trevor Project and Ann Moss Rogers. The episode emphasizes critical themes including the importance of open conversations about mental health, actionable strategies for suicide prevention, and understanding the heightened risks faced by LGBTQ youth. It includes practical advice for parents on recognizing signs of mental distress, fostering meaningful connections with their children, and leveraging resources like crisis hotlines and peer support platforms. 00:00 Introduction to Suicide Prevention Awareness 00:27 Recurring Themes in Suicide Prevention 01:17 Important Crisis Numbers 01:59 Interview with Jay Reed: A Father's Story 06:10 The Impact of Modern Life on Teen Mental Health 10:41 The Role of Parents in Suicide Prevention 19:43 Introducing Cara McNulty: Mental Health Advocate 31:01 Jackie Simmons: The Talk That Saves Lives 41:36 Why Stay? Heather's Reasons for Living 42:44 The Power of Neuroplasticity 46:43 Introducing Kevin Wong from The Trevor Project 48:17 The Trevor Project's Mission and Programs 57:52 Advocacy and Support for LGBTQ Youth 01:01:21 Recognizing and Addressing Mental Health in LGBTQ Youth 01:07:36 Ann Moss Rogers: A Personal Journey and Advocacy 01:26:51 Creating a Crisis Response Plan Links to Full Episode AnneMoss Rogers Kevin Wong, The Trevor Project Jackie Simmons Cara McNulty Jay Reid Connect with Heather: The Perfect Holiday Gift! Give a copy of Heather's new book, Parenting with Pride. Get Your Ally Toolkit (including a free primer!) Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a workshop! Please subscribe to, rate, and review Just Breathe. And, as always, please share with anyone who needs to know they are not alone! YouTube TikTok Email: [email protected]