Turning Tragedy Into Action: The Speedy Foundation’s Mission
Episode Summary:
In this episode, hosts Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel welcome Shannon Decker, Executive Director of The Speedy Foundation. The discussion delves into Shannon's personal connection to suicide prevention and the impactful work her foundation is spearheading in honor of her late cousin, Olympic silver medalist Jeret "Speedy" Peterson. This deeply moving conversation shines a light on the critical need for mental health advocacy and the various programs that Shannon is leading to address these issues head-on.
Throughout the episode, Shannon shares insights into the establishment of The Speedy Foundation and its quick impact in Idaho and Utah, notably helping to relaunch a suicide prevention hotline. The conversation touches on the challenges and advancements in mental health awareness, training, and legislative advocacy. With a focus on robust mental health training programs like QPR and Mental Health First Aid, Shannon emphasizes the necessity of widespread mental health literacy. The discussion also covers postvention strategies and the essential role they play in prevention efforts, highlighting how communities can respond effectively to suicide tragedies.
Key Takeaways:
Swift Action for Impac: The Speedy Foundation was founded just days after Jeret "Speedy" Peterson's death, promptly addressing mental health needs with significant actions like relaunching a suicide hotline in Idaho.
Innovative Training Programs: Shannon has expanded her work to include various mental health training programs, aiming to reach parity with CPR training rates.
Challenges in Suicide Prevention: The conversation highlights challenges in engaging communities in suicide prevention training, especially post-COVID, where attendance has declined.
Postvention is Prevention: Emphasizing the importance of postvention, Shannon discusses how addressing the impacts of suicide through community involvement can prevent further tragedies.
Legislative Successes and Setbacks: Shannon shares insights from her successes and ongoing efforts in advocating for legislative changes that enhance suicide prevention resources.
Notable Quotes:
1. "My why is really just that everyone needs to know that it's okay to talk directly about suicide." - Shannon Decker
2. "In 2016, Idaho became one of the last states to fund its suicide hotline, showing the power of collective advocacy." - Shannon Decker
3. "Some of the best suicide prevention is postvention." - Shannon Decker
4. "We need to get mental health literacy rates as saturated as CPR rates." - Shannon Decker
5. "If the family's not willing to talk about it, it just builds more shame and stigma." - Shannon Decker
Delve into this powerful episode to explore the impactful initiatives led by Shannon Decker and learn how continued advocacy and education in mental health can foster communities of support and resilience. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions in upcoming episodes.