May 4, 2011 Article in the Daily Herald (excerpt)

Taking Aim At Suicide Prevention 

By Janice Youngwith

It’s often hidden in stigma, myth and shame.  Suicide, which is estimated to claim a life every 17 minutes, can affect anyone but is seldom discussed.

Experts say the stigma alone often limits prevention and intervention efforts. 

“Suicide risk often is difficult for friends and family to recognize and assess,” says Michael Blumberg, a licensed clinical professional counselor in the Behavioral Health department at First Health Associates, Arlington Heights.  “Mental illness, alcohol and substance abuse, past history of suicide attempts and personal or psychological trauma all are common factors which can contribute to suicidal thoughts.  But many don’t seek help because of the stigma associated with asking for help, limited access to treatment, the shame they may feel or because no one recognizes their call for help.”

A Snapshot Look At The Numbers

Blumberg’s observations are on target, according Mental Health America in Illinois and the It Only Takes One suicide prevention campaign, which reports nearly 1000 Illinois residents die each year by suicide, surpassing the number of deaths due to homicide, HIV/AIDS or deaths by impaired driving. 

With an estimated 86 Americans committing suicide every day and another 1,500 attempting suicide, Blumberg says education and training are key when it comes to suicide prevention, intervention and postvention efforts.

Who Is At Risk?

“It’s important to know if the person has a plan, an intent, a history of trauma, and access to firearms or other means,” explains Blumberg, who provides counseling services to children, adolescents and other struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, conflict on other mental health concerns. “Thoughts of suicide can range from a fleeting thought to having an active plan when risk is highest.”

Some people think suicide is something people simply decide, but it really happens when their pain exceeds the resources for coping, explains Blumberg, who says many feel the stigma of suicide, are unaware of available help and are not taken seriously.

For families, suicide leaves unanswered questions, feelings of guilt, and the need to reach out.

“Survivors have to live with the guilt often associated with suicide,” explains Blumberg, who says sometimes it takes only one thing to encourage the person contemplating suicide to get help.   

For the full article go to http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-255615779.html?key=01-42160D517E1A116C150B071801674B2E224E324D3417295C30420B61651B617F137019731B7B1D6B39

June 7, 2011 Article in the Huffington Post (excerpt)

It Gets Better' Isn't Getting Old: Famous Voices Bolster the Message

Michael Blumberg, LCPC, who has recently counseled bullies and bully victims alike in the Chicago suburbs, is not surprised by young Sara Edelman's words. "Celebrities are idealized and appear to have it all," he explains, "so when they discuss being bullied we realize the scope and severity of the problem and are able to identify and connect with them."

For the full article go to http://www.huffingtonpost.com/shira-hirschman-weiss/it-gets-better-isnt-getti_b_871994.html