Suicide

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Suicide

Depression Psychologist

August 25, 2020
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders defines a depressed person as experiencing feelings of sadness, helplessness and hopelessness. The exact numbers of people who have severe depression are not known but estimates indicate that about 12 million adults in the US have depression. Depression cuts across all barriers and affects all races, cultures and social classes. The encouraging news is that it may be successfully treated. Depression Diagnosis and Treatment Options Depression is not a personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away, but with the support of a health care professional, family and friends along with variety of depression treatment options, such as prescription medication and psychotherapy, depression sufferers can begin to cope and understand their disorder. Only a professional health care provider can determine the appropriate option to treat each individual case of depression. Depression Counseling Depression therapy or Psychotherapy has shown to be very effective for people with some forms of depression. Like all treatment options, psychotherapy can be used alone or in combination with medication or other treatments. Depression therapy can help to reduce depression symptoms by challenging and reversing negative beliefs and attitudes as well as help facilitate the resolution of role disputes and assist clients in overcoming problems with social skills and other interpersonal factors that may impact the development of depression. Psychologist for Depression Though speaking to family and friends can be beneficial to a person suffering with depression there are cases in which a depression therapist can better help through greater knowledge of the disorder and complete options for treatment. Dr. Lisa Saponaro of Plantation Florida is a depression expert offering support and practical feedback in order to assist her clients in resolving both current and long term issues. Dr. Saponaro utilizes techniques that have been proven to be effective with specific issues including depression which include both conventional and alternative approaches., Dr. Saponaro provides the highest level of support while working with each client to help him or her build on their strengths and to identify and achieve optimal mental health and methods for living a more balanced life. Understanding our strengths and weaknesses is the first step toward making meaningful changes. Take a free screening below to identify your areas of growth. Mental Health Assessment Depression Test Bipolar Depression Test

Robin Williams Suicide highlights importance of treatment

August 25, 2020
Just yesterday the news of of the tragic loss of a treasured Hollywood star, Robin Williams, hit the headlines. Sadly, it appears that the 63 year old comedian and actor took his own life. Robin Williams has been open about his diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder, not only as a source of pain, but also as a source of inspiration. He has been reported to have used his depressive and manic episodes as catalysts for his creative genius. Too often our headlines are littered with the news that a beloved, respected and well known celebrity has committed suicide, often leaving a wake of disbelief, grief and wondering of what more could have been done. But what about what is left off of the headlines? The Center for Disease Control reports that suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in individuals 10 years of age and older. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness it is the 3rd leading cause of death among youth aged 15-24. Over 90 percent of people who commit suicide have been diagnosed with mental illness commonly including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, anxiety disorders and eating disorders. Substance abuse and addiction are also associated with an increased risk of suicide. While mental illness may be a risk factor, by no means is it a death sentence. While there may be no cure for mental illness, every mental illness is treatable and can be managed into complete remission. With strong support, appropriate treatment and time Suicide is 100% preventable. Lisa Saponaro, Ph.D. is committed to increasing awareness of suicide prevention through education, assessment and treatment of the underlying emotions, thoughts and beliefs that may increase suicide risk. You too can do your part by becoming educated about the warning signs and actions to take if you suspect a loved one may be a risk for suicide. Warning signs may include, but are not limited to: Talking about death and dying Giving away personal belonging Speaking about meeting or being with someone who has died Expressions of powerlessness or hopelessness Isolation from friends and family Sudden termination of psychotherapy, pharmacological treatment or other wellness activities. Increase in drug and/or alcohol use Increase in the severity and/ or frequency of self-injurious behaviors and/or high risk behaviors. Here are some considerations in joining the fight for Suicide Prevention: If you suspect a friend of love one may be suicidal – don’t be afraid to ask “Are you suicidal?” While many report concerns with discussing suicide with a love one leading to suicide, there is no such effect and in fact more often leads to needed help. The most loving act you can do for a loved one you suspect may be suicidal is to encourage them to get help. Encourage them to call 911, go to your nearest emergency room or utilize a suicide hotline such as 1 (800) 273-TALK (8255) from the American Association of Suicidology. An individual who is suicidal is likely to be experiencing a profound sense of hopelessness, powerlessness and loneliness. Efforts to connect your loved one to help show that there is a way out and that they are NOT ALONE. Never forget that there is always, always ALWAYS someone and more likely many people who are waiting, willing and motivated to help and carve a path out of the darkness. Dr. Saponaro is a licensed psychologist providing mental health services to the local south florida area with a practice located at: 120 S. University Drive, Suite A Plantation, FL 33324 It has been said that suicide is a permanent solution for a temporary problem. We may never know the profound distress that lead Robin Williams to take his own life, but we can learn from this tragedy, grieve, and then march forward in the fight for Suicide Prevention. Rest in peace, Mr. Williams, and thank you for the laughs.

Teen Suicide Prevention

August 25, 2020
Suicide rates for adolescents have risen over the past two decades. In 2019, approximately 1,600 teens between the ages of 12 and 17 died by suicide according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Suicide and COVID-19 Deaths by suicide in girls 12 to 17 began to rise in May 2020. In early 2021, emergency room visits for suspected suicide attempts were over 50% higher. For boys 12 to 17, the increase was just under 4%. When comparing the rate of teen suicide from 2019 to late 2020, there were approximately two times the amount of suspected suicide attempts every four months. Meaning, there have been more suspected suicide attempts since the start of COVID-19 in early 2020. This increase was driven largely by suspected suicide attempt hospital visits among females. Social Media and Suicide The use of social media by adolescents has been seen to impact mental health in recent years. Surveys of US teenagers show that teen depressive symptoms and suicide rates showed marked increases between 2010 and 2015, especially among females. The teenagers surveyed who spent more time on social media were more likely to report mental health issues.Facebook research revealed that Instagram has made body image issues worse for one in three girls surveyed. More than 40% of teenage Instagram users who said they felt “unattractive” said the feeling began while using the app. Those who spent more time on unplugged activities, such as in-person social interaction, sports, exercise, homework, and print media, were less likely to report these issues. The High Rate of Teen Suicide It is difficult to understand exactly why teen suicide is so high but the most likely causes of teen suicide carry risk factors that should be taken seriously. These risks may include aggression, disruptive behavior, substance abuse, and depression. These risk factors often play on the tumultuous feelings experienced by teenagers. Intense feelings can contribute to a teen’s sense of helplessness and to a general feeling that life is not worth living. Teen Suicide Warnings It is important to take the warning signs of teen suicide seriously and to seek help if you think that you know a teenager who might be suicidal. Here are some things to look for: Depressed mood or irritability Disinterest in favorite extracurricular activities Problems at work and losing interest in a job Substance abuse, including alcohol and drug use Behavioral problems Withdrawing from family and friends Sleep changes Changes in eating habits Neglect in hygiene Physical complaints (aches, fatigue, migraines) Difficulty concentrating or paying attention Declining grades in school Loss of interest in schoolwork Risk taking behaviors Complaints of boredom Does not respond to praise as before Teen Suicide Prevention Support is key to teen suicide prevention. Teenagers need to know that you support and love them, and that you are willing to help him or her find hope in life again. One of the most effective ways to prevent teen suicide is to recognize the signs of suicidal thoughts and feelings and seek professional help. Some of the most effective youth suicide prevention programs consist of identifying and treating mental and learning disorders, substance abuse problems, problems dealing with stress and behavioral problems (uncontrollable aggression and impulses). Through mental health counseling, teenagers can find the hope that they need to continue towards a brighter future. Pediatricians often offer depression screenings which signal when a child may be at risk of self-harm. Dr. Lisa Saponaroworks with pediatricians in Broward County and offers suicide prevention counseling at the Center for Psychological Growth and Wellness inSouth Florida. Located in the heart of Plantation, the center is easily accessible from Davie, Sunrise, Weston, Fort Lauderdale, Cooper City, and Southwest Ranches. Since approximately 40% of adolescents who die by suicide have been treated for a mental health concern, it is important to screen broadly for suicide risk to help ensure at-risk youth are not missed. Understanding our strengths and weaknesses is the first step toward making meaningful changes. Take a free screening below to identify your areas of growth. Parent Test: Your Child’s Mental Health Youth Mental Health Test Bipolar Depression Test If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs immediate help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text “HOME” to 741741.
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