Monday, December 30, 2019

How poor people survive in the USA | DW Documentary

New Years 2020

Christmas time is difficult for those who are suffering from any kind of depression. It seems to bring out the loneliness, and struggles many are facing including the debt, and hopelessness. Perhaps despite the great success of this native girl who just took her life, her past and struggles have taken over a very vulnerable part of her. At first the news media reported her as just having died, and today they had a documentary of her life and struggles, and acknowledged her death was due to suicide. She was a shining light in her culture, so many have looked up to her. I pray that her followers will not copy her deed.
Tomorrow I will be babysitting my six month old  grand-daughter while her parents will be reflecting and setting future goals for themselves. Apparently, restaurants will not take reservations tomorrow, New Years Eve. I gladly look after my little grandbaby, and forefeit any other activity. My daughter and husband will be going out for dinner in their traditional setting ways.
I do hope you all have a stress free year.. I'm sure it will be difficult, but with the right attitude, and God on our side, we will be Overcomers. Revelations 12;5.. Greater is He who is in us, than he who is in the world. So Be strong and of good courage, and be Blessed this New Year 2020. 
Please Pray for the firefighters in Australia and all the residents, and wildlife. It is a catastrophe!!

Inuit singer-activist Kelly Fraser dead at 26

This dear girl took her life. I heard on the news that her father also died by suicide. Her activism was to give young people hope. What a sad day for her family, friends and colleagues.

Friday, December 27, 2019

Suicides linked to acne drug Roaccutane as regulator reopens inquiry


Suicides linked to acne drug Roaccutane as regulator reopens inquiry

Expert working group to re-examine safety of drug used by about 30,000 people a year

Ten of 12 recorded deaths by Roaccutane users in 2019 were suicide. Photograph: BSIP/UIG/Getty Images/Universal Images Group

Ten suicides this year have been linked to a powerful acne drug as the medicines regulator reopens an inquiry into it after being contacted by patients.
Twelve deaths were recorded in 2019, 10 by suicide, by people who had been prescribed Roaccutane, according to data from the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
The figure is up from five fatalities the year before and is the highest since records began in 1983. However, the MHRA noted that the reaction may not have occurred that year but only been reported then.
This year, Channel 4 reported about the death of Annabel Wright, with her parents Helen and Simon blaming the drug for her death, although the exact cause is yet to be confirmed.
In 2017, the parents of Luke Reeves said they believed their son’s death was linked to Roaccutane. A coroner ruled that Luke, who was found dead in his bedroom, killed himself by taking a drugs overdose in April 2017.
Robert Reeves, 50, told the hearing at Essex coroner’s court that Luke’s personality had completely changed.
In October 2012, Jack Bowlby took his life, aged 16. His parents expressed the same concerns as those of Luke Reeves. At the coroner’s inquest, one expert speculated that Jack would still be alive if he had not taken the drug.
Roaccutane, a brand name of the drug isotretinoin, is used by about 30,000 people in the UK each year. Data from NHS Digital shows prescriptions for isotretinoin rose from 34,283 to 69,040 between 2008 and 2018.
Also manufactured under the name Accutane, the drug is often credited with yielding miraculous results at clearing people’s skin.
While studies have not found a clear or direct link with increased risk of psychiatric disorders and suicide, side-effects have been noted.
Data from the MHRA’s yellow card reporting scheme – a website for reporting adverse drug reactions – recorded 12 fatalities in 2019, 85 serious incidents and 19 non-serious ones. Since records began there have been 88 deaths.
“We were never told that these random suicide impulses can come out of the blue and be overwhelming,” Helen Wright said.


In 1998, warnings about depression and other psychiatric side-effects were added to the drug’s patient information leaflet. In section four it states that “some people have had thoughts about hurting themselves or ending their own lives (suicidal thoughts), have tried to end their own lives (attempted suicide), or have ended their lives (suicide). These people may not appear to be depressed.”
Two years ago, a new warning was added to say some people would be affected by problems getting or maintaining an erection and by lower libido.
The MHRA governs the safety of the drug. It said its reporting system was “not proof of a side-effect occurring, but a suspicion by the reporter that the drug may have been the cause”.
It said the safety of isotretinoin was kept under continuous review in the UK and across Europe. The Isotretinoin Expert Working Group is being reconvened and will consider all of the available data regarding the risk of suicide, considering whether further regulatory action is needed.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) plans to publish guidance on all acne treatments by 2021 and said it always considers the safety of drugs in its guidelines.
In its guidance about the options available for acne treatment, the NHS says the drug is only recommended for severe cases that have not responded to other treatments.
The NHS acknowledges there have been reports of people experiencing mood changes while taking the drug. Its advice says, while there is no evidence these changes were caused by Roaccutane, patients should speak to their doctor immediately if they feel depressed, anxious or have suicidal thoughts.

A survivors’ group linked to the drug and its side-effects on Facebook has more than 8,000 members.
In 2004, the Guardian reported that a promising medical student killed himself four weeks after being prescribed the acne drug. Jon Medland, 22, was in the final year of his medical degree at Manchester University when he killed himself at his student lodgings early on 13 January this year.
Roche said millions of patients take isotretinoin, but “like most medications, it can have side-effects”.
“That is why we recommend it is prescribed carefully, with particular consideration regarding any previous history of depression, that patients understand what to expect when they take it and that they are monitored closely to ensure they get the care they need.”
In the UK, Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org. In the US, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international suicide helplines can be found at www.befrienders.org.

Preventing Suicide

Home » Mental Health » Understanding Mental Illness » Preventing Suicide

Preventing Suicide

Suicide. It’s a difficult topic to bring up. However, when someone talks about suicide or brings up concern for a loved one, it’s important to take action and seek help quickly.
Experts in the field suggest that a suicidal person is feeling so much pain that they can see no other option. They feel that they are a burden to others, and in desperation see death as a way to escape their overwhelming pain and anguish. The suicidal state of mind has been described as constricted, filled with a sense of self-hatred, rejection, and hopelessness.
In this section, you will find information and resources to aid in the understanding and prevention of suicide.

What is suicide?

Suicide means that someone ends their life on purpose. However, people who die by suicide or attempt suicide may not really want to end their life. Suicide may seem like the only way to deal with difficult feelings or situations.

Who does it affect?

About 4000 Canadians die by suicide every year. Suicide is the second-most common cause of death among young people, but men in their 40s and 50s have the highest rate of suicide. While women are three to four times more likely to attempt suicide than men, men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women.
Suicide is a complicated issue. People who die by suicide or attempt suicide usually feel overwhelmed, hopeless, helpless, desperate, and alone. In some rare cases, people who experience psychosis (losing touch with reality) may hear voices that tell them to end their life.
Many different situations and experiences can lead someone to consider suicide. Known risk factors for suicide include:
  • A previous suicide attempt
  • Family history of suicidal behaviour
  • A serious physical or mental illness
  • Problems with drugs or alcohol
  • A major loss, such as the death of a loved one, unemployment, or divorce
  • Major life changes or transitions, like those experienced by teenagers and seniors
  • Social isolation or lack of a support network
  • Family violence
  • Access to the means of suicide
While we often think of suicide in relation to depression, anxiety, and substance use problems, any mental illness may increase the risk of suicide. It’s also important to remember that suicide may not be related to any mental illness.

What are the warning signs?

Major warning signs of suicide spell IS PATH WARM:
I—Ideation: thinking about suicide
S—Substance use: problems with drugs or alcohol
P—Purposelessness: feeling like there is no purpose in life or reason for living
A—Anxiety: feeling intense anxiety or feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope
T—Trapped: feeling trapped or feeling like there is no way out of a situation
H—Hopelessness or Helplessness: feeling no hope for the future, feeling like things will never get better
W—Withdrawal: avoiding family, friends, or activities
A—Anger: feeling unreasonable anger
R—Recklessness: engaging in risky or harmful activities normally avoided
M—Mood change: a significant change in mood

How can I reduce the risk of suicide?

Though not all suicides can be prevented, some strategies can help reduce the risk. All of these factors are linked to well-being. These strategies include:
  • Seeking treatment, care and support for mental health concerns—and building a good relationship with a doctor or other health professionals
  • Building social support networks, such as family, friends, a peer support or support group, or connections with a cultural or faith community
  • Learning good coping skills to deal with problems, and trusting in coping abilities
When a person receives treatment for a mental illness, it can still take time for thoughts of suicide to become manageable and stop. Good treatment is very important, but it may not immediately eliminate the risk of suicide. It’s important to stay connected with a care team, monitor for thoughts of suicide, and seek extra help if it’s needed. Community-based programs that help people manage stress or other daily challenges can also be very helpful.
What can I do if I experience thoughts of suicide?
Thoughts of suicide are distressing. It’s important to talk about your experiences with your doctor, mental health care team, or any other person you trust. They can help you learn skills to cope and connect you to useful groups or resources. Some people find it helpful to schedule frequent appointments with care providers or request phone support. Other things that you can do include:
  • Calling a crisis telephone support line
  • Connecting with family, friends, or a support group. It can be helpful to talk with others who have experienced thoughts of suicide to learn about their coping strategies
If you’re in crisis and aren’t sure what to do, you can always call 9-1-1 or go to your local emergency room.
Some people find a safety plan useful. A safety plan is a list of personal strategies to use if you think you are at risk of hurting or ending your life. You can create a plan on your own, with a loved one, or with your mental health care team. Your plan may include:
  • Activities that calm you or take your mind off your thoughts
  • Your own reasons for living
  • Key people to call if you’re worried about your safety
  • Phone numbers for local crisis or suicide prevention helplines
  • A list of safe places to go if you don’t feel safe at home

How can I help a loved one?

If you’re concerned about someone else, talk with them. Ask them directly if they’re thinking about suicide. Talking about suicide won’t give them the idea. If someone is seriously considering suicide, they may be relieved that they can talk about it.
If someone you love says that they’re thinking about ending their life, it’s important to ask them if they have a plan. If they have a plan and intend to end their life soon, connect with crisis services or supports right away. Many areas have a crisis, distress, or suicide helpline, but you can always call 9-1-1 if you don’t know who to call. Stay with your loved one while you make the call, and don’t leave until the crisis line or emergency responders say you can leave.
The two most important things you can do are listen and help them connect with mental health services.
Listening
Here are tips for talking with a loved one:
  • Find a private place and let your loved one take as much time as they need.
  • Take your loved one seriously and listen without judgement—their feelings are very real.
  • Keep your word—don’t make promise you can’t keep or don’t intend to keep.
  • Tell your loved one that they are important and that you care about them.
Supports
If your loved one already sees a doctor or other mental health service provider, it’s important that they tell their service provider about any thoughts of suicide they may have been having. Depending on your relationship, you can offer to help—by helping your loved one schedule appointments or by taking them to their appointments, for example.
If your loved one doesn’t see a mental health service provider, you can give them the phone number for a local crisis line and encourage them to see their doctor. Your loved one may also be able to access services through their school, workplace, cultural or faith community.
Supporting a loved one can be a difficult experience for anyone, so it’s important to take care of your own mental health during this time and seek support if you need it.

Is someone you know thinking of suicide?

If you are concerned that someone you know may be thinking of suicide, you can help. Remember, as a helper, do not promise to do anything you do not want to do or that you cannot do. First of all, if the person is actively suicidal, get help immediately. Call your local crisis service or the police, or take the person to the emergency room of your local hospital. Do not leave the person alone. If the person has attempted suicide and needs medical attention, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency services number.

Are you feeling suicidal?

If you are feeling suicidal, please contact your local crisis line or counselling centre. The information that follows is not a substitute for professional counselling. It is strongly recommended that you seek guidance from a professional caregiver.
There are several ways to find assistance:
  • Check your phone directory for the listing of your local crisis centre.
  • Access the Centre for Suicide Prevention’s listing of Canadian crisis centres.
  • You have made the right choice to look for help. We hope you will contact someone right away.

Do you need more help?

Contact a community organization like the Canadian Mental Health Association to learn more about support and resources in your area.
Founded in 1918, The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is a national charity that helps maintain and improve mental health for all Canadians. As the nation-wide leader and champion for mental health, CMHA helps people access the community resources they need to build resilience and support recovery from mental illness.

Busy Christmas

After a busy Christmas, we are staying put and avoiding the shopping malls. This was the first year when adult children organized their own celebrations on the days that best fitted into their schedule. We were together, and hope to be together again on Sunday to celebrate my oldest 31st birthday. She is expecting a little boy in April, and we are so excited. Foremost they have to look for a larger apartment with their 2 cats, and baby on the way. Rent is very expensive here so we are praying for a very nice place for them to begin their lives.  Here is a family picture of my 6 month old Grand-daughter. She is a sweetheart and so smart. In six months her mommy will be going back to work so life will change again. I am waiting for hip surgery, so hopefully, I will be all healed and recovered from this operation.. God Bless you All, and please take care of your mental health and call someone to see how they are 'really doing"..Image may contain: 3 people, people smiling, stripes and indoor

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Monday, December 23, 2019

2 Hours Non Stop Worship Songs 2019 With Lyrics - Best Christian Worshi...

A Summer Photo Thinking of the Fires in Australia



No photo description available.
A Summer Kodak moment in Stanley Park many years ago. Please Pray for the fire fighter in Australia. Please Pray for the weather to change. Please Pray for the families of the firefighters. No photo description available.\


Merry Christmas 2019

Here we are just a few days before Christmas. I am sure you are mostly busy, yet reflective. I was at the graveside yesterday, and took a bouquet of Christmas flowers and cuttings given to me by my daughter Erica. I decided to put it on her sisters graveyard. This happened after I had a nice luncheon with the suicide support walking group ladies. It was good to see the facilitator there and all the moms and spouses who have lost loved ones to suicide. I was late getting there, but had a box of shortbread cookies in my hands to share with them. Fish and chips hit the spot. Afterwards a lady ddrove me home and I showed her my new place. She had a few minutes to look around my downsized townhouse close to her abode. I still had no curtains up; after two months. I tend to look at the unfinished, even as I look at my life I am unfinished, still needing finishing. I trust God will do the work and make me into that diamond he wants me to be. Later, at the funeral home I placed two small paper ornaments on the mega tree in the hallway. The tree was full of names of loved ones who have all gone before us. I wrote Deborah on my card, I wrote it will be our sixth Christmas without you!! We love you. How is it possible, that this will be the sixth Christmas without her?? She died in August of 2014.
The sorrow still grips my heart. As I prepare the turkey dinner for the rest of the family, I will think on how it could have been with her here as well. She liked to help out. I'm sure she'd be mixing and tasting the mashed potatoes, and setting the table. I will keep glancing at her photo on our fridge. My pain in my hip that needs surgery will take away my focus of my grief hour by hour, and the fact that one daughter is with her boyfriends family far away will also fill a void. However, we must make the best of it all. I will try to go along with the flow and remember the Reason for the Season is our Lord coming in the flesh to dwell among men; us little ants. I think if we take our focus off of ourselves we will be alright to a working degree. I almost forgot the second paper ornament I hung on the tree was that of a friends name who left us at age 60 very suddenly. We do have an army of loved ones waiting for us on the other side. Be kind to one another and look up for our redemption is near. I love you all. Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Years to you and yours.

Thursday, December 19, 2019

I'm Thinking of you all

Hello everyone, just a wee note to say I am thinking of you all at this time. 
I know Christmas can be a difficult time and it’s hard to escape it when it’s on the TV, Radio in the stores, in our  places of work.
 
There are many expectations to be Jolly and Merry and Happy – My best advice is to go with the flow…

Please see attached little flyer I’ve prepared with some suggestions on how to cope with this this time. 

My wish for you is Peace of Heart.

I had some glitches with my password for my blog. Thankfully my husband knew how to reset the password. I thank him every day for his help.
 

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

The Truckers Parade in Victoria

What an incredible job truckers do all year round, was what we were reminded of during this parade we saw from our hotel. Our grocery stores would sit empty, and our city workers could not do their jobs. Thank you for all you do! I hope you all get raises in the New Year!

A new lap top

Hello All, We just set up our new lap top computer. This was a must purchase since the screen has been on the verge of falling off despite attempts to repair it. As you know change is never easy for a soon to be 60 year old, and at one time we even lost the charging plug for it.
So now the computer is set, we are mostly settled into our small 2 bedroom place and the storage unit is almost empty. We can only give God praise for this since as my nurse daughter said, could we imagine doing this 10 years into our lifespan?? NO, No , No..
Regretfully, I have missed almost every event at Valleyview for Christmas with this busy month. The family just came back from a 4 day stay in Victoria, the Island. My son-in-law had a business workshop at the Fairmont Hotel, and we as grandparents got to tag along and help with the baby! For me and my husband this was a trip of our lifetime as of recent years, despite it being only an hour and a half by Ferry from the Mainland. We celebrated his 55th birthday there, and enjoyed the whirlpool at the hotel. We took more pictures than ever under the many lighted trees. The weather was mild and we saw a truckers parade go right by the hotel. Cassidy my grand daughter saw it from her hotel window as a six month old. Life is charming once again. Her dimples are a sweet reminder of my daughter Deborah in Heaven. Turning sixty this coming year is just a reminder that re uniting with loved ones on the other side is not just a hope but soon a reality. I will post many pictures of our working vacation for you. I would have wanted it no other way. Her sweet business, figuring out how her hands work, her teething drool's, her cheeks next to mine are all wonderful displays that we are still needed, and loved. I hope that the holidays brings everyone a moment of miracle that is tangible to you and your loved ones. We know that Jesus of course was born on the Feast of Tabernacles in minus 2 BC in the fall when the Shepherds were  out around Sept 11th. I will share of my visit with Stephen Steinman on the Island as well, who studies scriptures night and day. Look expectantly for His return. Hebrews 9:28