I have always known that suicide is among the leading causes of death for minorities. I have seen it in my family, I have seen it in my school growing up, and I am definitely seeing much more of it since relocating to the southwest.

Health.com published an article on January 2 about a novel treatment for depression; helping other people. The article suggests that recent research shows that “positive activity interventions” can be an “effective and low-cost treatment” for depression.

Bring on the gym memberships, smoking cessation programs, and revamped financial planning!  Over the next three days, many of us will swear to New Year’s resolutions meant to improve our physical appearance or our wallets—but what about our minds? 

"The holidays" are quickly approaching, and whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Eid, or other dates, you might eagerly await the activities. If you are able to jump in and enjoy everything, I surmise your experience is different from many others' holidays. Most of you will experience some level of stress during the next few weeks.

For his entire life Jason was a fun loving popular kid who always made those around him feel good. He was caring, respectful, creative and active in sports throughout his life. Suddenly one day he seemed to just hop in his truck and drive out of childhood off to college with a promising life ahead of him.

Gary Speed was a highly regarded and widely respected Welsh soccer player and manager. He was captain of the Welsh National team, and later served as manager. Gary Speed made different headlines last week, when he took his life shortly after appearing on a TV show.

The Balanced Mind Foundation is thrilled to announce an exciting six webinar series for this fall.  Each webinar will feature an American College of Neuropsychopharmacology member who specializes in childhood mood disorders and will provide families with information about the latest research and related developments.

This annual program provides mutual support and practical guidance on coping with grief after suicide in cities around the world and online in two days-- Saturday, November 19, 2011. Survivors of suicide loss share their stories and answer the questions that so many survivors face, “Why did this happen?” “How will I cope?” Presented by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Terrie Williams, a Families for Depression Awareness volunteer, and Julie Totten, our president and founder, were featured on NBC Nightly News on Sunday, October 23^rd.  Their segment covered the CDC’s recent study of antidepressants, which showed a 400% increase in usage.

Planning an event as large as Strides Against Stigma certainly has it challenges, but for every challenge we’ve faced, we’ve managed to find a way to work it out. Progress is addictive, and we’ve been fortunate to be continually making progress with Strides Against Stigma, in large part due to the incredible group of volunteers that are helping us plan and execute the event.

So, what progress has been made since our last update? WE HAVE A VENUE!!!