CLV Podcast

The Power of Community: How Las Vegas Fights for Mental Health

About the Guest:

Mai Tran serves as the Nevada Area Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). With a profound personal connection to the cause, Mai has been a passionate advocate, having volunteered as a crisis counselor for over a decade before joining AFSP. Her work at AFSP focuses on suicide prevention through research, education, advocacy, and support, mobilizing community efforts for mental health awareness and support for those impacted by suicide.

Episode Summary:

In this heartfelt episode of "A Healthier Tomorrow," hosts Will Rucker and Ciara Owens engage with Mai Tran, the Nevada Area Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Together, they delve into the profound impact of suicide on communities and individual lives, discussing strategies for prevention and avenues for support.

The episode sheds light on the multifaceted approach of AFSP in suicide prevention, emphasizing research, community education, advocacy, and support systems for survivors of suicide loss. Mai Tran shares her personal journey of turning loss into purpose, which has fueled her commitment to this cause. The conversation also highlights the upcoming Out of the Darkness Walk in Las Vegas, a significant community event aimed at fostering hope, awareness, and collective healing. As the hosts and Mai discuss the importance of safe language, community engagement, and proactive mental health practices, listeners are provided with practical insights and resources to contribute to this crucial effort.

Key Takeaways:

  • The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention focuses on four pillars: research, education, advocacy, and support.

  • Mai Tran emphasizes the importance of shifting language around suicide to safer, de-stigmatizing terms.

  • The Out of the Darkness Walk is a pivotal community event in Las Vegas, designed to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention.

  • Engagement with mental health practices, like taking short exercise breaks and spending time in nature, can significantly promote wellness.

  • There are numerous resources available through AFSP and community partners for those affected directly or indirectly by suicide.

Notable Quotes:

  • "You're not alone. There are people who want to support you and help you." - Mai Tran

  • "I just feel so emotional seeing the community come together; itโ€™s really beautiful." - Mai Tran

  • "It's not important to know the โ€˜whyโ€™ behind a suicide, but rather to honor the person." - Mai Tran

  • "Our mission is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide." - Mai Tran

  • "Life is too short to wait. The time is now for what you want to do." - Mai Tran

Resources:

  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) โ€“ afsp.org

Listeners are encouraged to participate in the upcoming community events, deepen their understanding of mental health issues, and explore the resources shared in this episode. Stay connected for more impactful discussions and insights on "A Healthier Tomorrow."