Governors Project

The 2019-20 Governor's Project, named Flora's Project, was created as a nod to Gov. Joseph Ruggiero's mother, Flora.
Flora spent much of her time towards many mental health issues for students, and worked diligently for Special Olympics.
Gov. Joe wants to continue the tradition of supporting good mental health through New York District Kiwanis. Check with the chair in your chosen area to discuss possible projects that will meet the criteria for a banner patch. Kiwanians will be asked to fill out a form outlining the project(s) the have chosen to complete. At the end of 19-20 the clubs will be presented with a Project Flora Banner Patch.
Suicide Prevention
Kevin Kamper, Suicide Prevention Chair
E-Mail: knkamper@gmail.com
We are facing a growing crisis. 47,000 people in the United States die each year as a result of suicide and is now the 10th leading cause of death as well as the second leading cause of death among young people 15 to 34. On the surface, this subject has been difficult to talk about and is considered controversial. Why should it be? The push should be to de-stigmatize and increase awareness and conversation.
According to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, research has shown that people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks them about it in a caring way. Talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicide ideation.
The best way to promote awareness of suicide prevention is to start this conversation by educating individuals in Mental Health First Aid. This course aims to preserve life, prevent the problem from becoming more serious, promote recovery, provide comfort and support and help to guide a person to appropriate resources.
Many adults have been trained in CPR and first aid by the American Red Cross. Did you know that you can be trained in Mental Health First Aid? You can make a difference just by taking a Mental Health First Aid course. This course will give you the skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis.
Every 40 seconds someone takes their life. Take 40 seconds and do something. Get involved as an advocate, be a better listener and understand the signs. Have an open and honest conversation and if you do see something, talk to the person and encourage that person to see a mental health professional.
For more information, you can contact your local health professional or check out these sites
USA Mental Health First Aid https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/
American Association of Suicidology https://suicidology.org/
Suicide Prevention Lifeline https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Youth suicide Prevention and awareness programs for students https://www.preventsuicidepa.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Youth-Resources-for-Suicide-Prevention_Final.pdf
If anyone needs a person to talk with the National suicide prevention hotline (800) 273-8255 is staffed 24 hours a day seven days a week.

Column Posted on Web Site January 26, 2020