Santa Clara County Suicide Prevention Advisory Group meeting

December 9, 2009 I attended the Santa Clara County Suicide Prevention Advisory Group meeting
AGENDA
December 9, 2009
6-8 p.m.

I. Introductions 6:00 pm-7:05 pm
A. Overview of creation and purpose of Committee 6:00 pm-6:15 pm
B. Introduction of each member and why participating 6:15 pm-7:00 pm
C. Identification of missing members 7:00 pm-7:05 pm
II. Name Committee 7:05 pm-7:20 pm
III. Define meeting work schedule and outcomes 7:20 pm-7:45pm
V. Q&A for committee and Public 7:45 pm-8:00pm

It was a great meeting with many different professionals from different disciplines. There was a quote which was eye opening, “Every 17 minutes in American someone commits suicide. Where is the public concern and outrage?” Wow what a powerful quote and indeed where is the outrage. But in Santa Clara County, Supervisor Liz Kniss is taking the bull by the horns. She has started the advisory group in an effort to make a change in suicides. I applaud her and the group. I am honored to be a part of this group.

Children's Health Council, Palo Alto

On December 8, 2009 I attended a training at The Children’s Health Council on recognizing the Warning signs of suicide and depression for children. The meeting was well attended. The information and the questions were outstanding. The panel presented a technique that you can use to communicate with your teen. Think CALM( pick a destination, e.g turning down music:
Curious
Ask, don’t tell
Ask about the music
Lead by problem solving (goal or is it attitude)
Ask for solutions
Map

Talk about the trip you just went on.

When we communicate we win.

Sierra Club Christmas Potluck

12-5-09 Last weekend I attended the Loma Prieta Sierra Club Chapter Christmas party in Saratoga. It was fun and full of great discussions. One gentleman told me that when he went to Stanford it only cost $400.00 per year. Everyone had a great time. I look forward to meeting other fellow Sierra Club members.