Aimee Prange, MSW, LCSW, the Clinical Consultant for the Jack Duffy Empowerment Foundation, discussed the non-profit founded by his parents to honor his life by promoting personal empowerment of physical and mental health for teens and young adults.

We discussed the warning signs of suicidal ideation, extreme behavior change, words indicating thoughts of self-harm, and the need to speak up and ask the questions, are you thinking of suicide? While older adults are more likely to die by suicide, the rates for young people are growing.

She discussed their activities, a 5K in in the spring, a chess tournament that pairs high schoolers with elementary and middle-school students, and their annual recognition of Survivors Day, the Saturday before Thanksgiving. This day acknowledges loss and brings survivors together for support and understanding. This year’s event will be held November 22 at the Horsham Clinic.

For more information go to jackempowers.org. If you are struggling or know someone you know is, text 741741 or call 988 for immediate assistance.