The experience of losing someone significant to suicide can come with unique challenges that may complicate the grieving process. Often, people report encountering stigma surrounding the cause of death, a lack of social support, and persistent thoughts about why the loss occurred or whether it could have been prevented that exacerbate the painful experience of the loss.

While perinatal depression in women during pregnancy and the postpartum period has become more widely acknowledged, it is less commonly recognized those who identify as men. Recent research has indicated that, in fact, 4 to 25% of fathers globally experience postpartum depression (PPD). Fathers are at highest risk for developing perinatal depression during the first trimester of pregnancy. Rates for postpartum depression in fathers are highest at 3-6 months after birth, typically due to factors such as a 4-month sleep regression or the return to work of the birthing parent, but can continue until one year postpartum which may contribute to under recognition of paternal PPD. 

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 46.3 million people met DSM-5 criteria for a substance use disorder in 2021. And yet, only 6% of these people received substance use treatment. One possible reason for this could be the stigma and mystery that still surrounds substance use disorders and their treatment today. 

Here are some of the common myths surrounding substance use and its treatment:

If you are someone who has ever experienced suicidal thoughts, know that you are not alone. Having thoughts of suicide may not be as uncommon as you think.

When a baby is born, many assume that the birthing parent will be nothing less than overjoyed. However, it is more typical for birthing parents to experience a range of complex emotions after bringing a baby into the world. When these emotions become predominantly negative and longstanding, leaving parents feeling like they don’t know what to do, where to turn, or whom to ask for help, they may be experiencing Postpartum Depression (PPD).