September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States, taking nearly 50,000 lives every year. 

As a mental health advocate and educator, I am proud to volunteer with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). As a member of the Advocacy & Public Policy Committee, I meet with federal and New York State elected officials and their staff. We provide information about and rally support for legislation that promotes mental health and suicide prevention. In my role as a trained presenter, I give educational programs to corporations and community groups. These discussions help people learn how they can save lives, support those at risk, and support someone who has experienced a recent loss to suicide.

​In 1987, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)​ was established to give those affected by suicide a nationwide community empowered by research, education and advocacy to take action against this leading cause of death. 

Reflection
Relaxation
Deep breathing

Hmm, these words don't really scream "productivity," do they?

On the contrary, participating in these activities can actually lead to some major benefits, including increased creativity and being in the right mindset to make sound decisions.