Ep. 75 - In the Wake of Tragedy: A Parent’s Grief and the Urgency of Suicide Awareness, with Neal Tricarico

Approximately 700,000 people die by suicide worldwide each year, according to the World Health Organization, making suicide one of the leading causes of death globally, especially among the younger age groups. 

 

In this week’s deeply moving episode, we honor Suicide Awareness Prevention Month with a conversation that resonates at the core of our shared humanity. Today’s guest, a fellow entrepreneur and dear friend, Neal Tricarico, is a father who tragically lost his 16-year-old son, Anthony, to suicide just a few months ago, bravely shares his raw and personal journey through unimaginable grief. Together, we explore the depths of healing, the weight of loss, and the importance of community support. He offers insight not only for parents who are navigating similar tragedies but also for teenagers who may be struggling in silence. This episode is a heartfelt call to action—a reminder that even in the darkest times, no one is alone. Let’s open our hearts, spread awareness, and start the conversations that could save lives. 

 

You can connect with this week’s guest via his IG - @NealTricarico

 

#YouAreNotAlone #SuicidePrevention #MentalHealthAwareness #GriefAndHealing #BreakTheSilence #WeGotThis #BetterTogether #LyfeReinvented #EndurantMovement

Additional statistics:

• Suicide is the second leading cause of death among adolescents (ages 10-19) in the United States, with rates increasing in recent years.

• Boys, especially those aged 15-19, are at a significantly higher risk of suicide than girls. In the U.S., boys represent about 78% of adolescent suicides.

• Increased mental health challenges during COVID-19: The pandemic exacerbated isolation, anxiety, depression, and family stress, all risk factors for suicide. For teens, disruptions to routines, schooling, and social lives were particularly harmful.

• Rise in suicide attempts and hospitalizations:  In 2020, there was a reported 31% increase in mental health emergency room visits for adolescents (ages 12-17), compared to 2019.

• Teens with high-functioning autism are at higher risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Research indicates that **teens with ASD are nearly three times more likely** to attempt suicide compared to their neurotypical peers.

• These statistics underline the importance of awareness and targeted support for at-risk teens, particularly boys, those with autism, and those impacted by the pandemic's mental health effects.

 

RESOURCES:

For anyone who might be struggling with suicidal thoughts, mental health challenges, or who want to help someone in need:

 

National and Global Crisis HOTLINES:

1. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.)

Dial 988 (available 24/7)  A free and confidential support line for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources for individuals and families.

   

2. Crisis Text Line 

Text "HELLO" to 741741 (U.S.)  

Provides free, confidential crisis intervention via text message, available 24/7.   

   

3. SAMHSA’s National Helpline (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)**:  

1-800-662-HELP (4357) 

A confidential, free, 24-hour service for i ...