Issues

An urgent call to address the rising suicide rates among Black boys in the U.S., examining systemic racism, socio-economic disparities, and lack of mental health resources, while advocating for comprehensive solutions to reverse this tragic trend.

In a world where the thin blue line often separates order from chaos, police officers stand as the frontline defenders of societal stability. Yet, beneath the uniform and behind the badge, these men and women grapple with immense emotional and psychological strain, a reality that is frequently overlooked by the public and policymakers alike.

The tidal wave of undocumented migrants who were crossing America’s southern border reached a record in December, topping more than 300,000 people. That was, of course, only a percentage of the people illegally flowing into the country through a hydra-headed human smuggling network.

First responders are often seen as modern-day heroes, bravely battling flames to save lives and property. However, behind the courageous facade lies a hidden reality – the profound emotional and psychological strain they endure.

Discover self-care tips tailored for empaths on Jessica Cording Nutrition. The post emphasizes the importance of taking time for yourself, choosing supportive social circles, learning to say no, engaging in creative outlets, scheduling self-care, using mantras, and reducing screen time to maintain emotional and mental well-being.

In his guest opinion piece titled "Still mourning Flight 103 and the lives they never got to live," published on December 21, 2023, in The Post-Standard, Chris Meek reflects on the enduring impact of the Pan Am Flight 103 tragedy. He emphasizes the profound loss experienced by the families of the 270 victims, including 35 Syracuse University students, whose potential and contributions were tragically cut short. Meek underscores the importance of honoring their memories and the collective responsibility to ensure such acts of terrorism are never forgotten.

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. When National Suicide Prevention Month began twenty years ago the death by suicide rate was 30% lower than it is today. Even with a continued reduction in the stigma surrounding seeking mental health treatment and the allocation of $222 million by Congress to the VA to prevent suicide in the past decade, there are still 17 veteran suicides each day. Even just one veteran suicide a day is far too many.

“Those who cannot remember the past, George Santayana wrote famously in his 1905 work, “The Life of Reason, “are condemned to repeat it.” As the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks approach, Santayana’s observation seems all too relevant today.

It’s funny how a single phrase can influence and even guide the course of a life. For me, that phrase was uttered by my mom. “We might not be able to change the world today, but we can change the world around us,” she would say often as I was growing up.