Tragedy does not have to define us. It can serve as a tool to bring out the best in others if used correctly.
BUCK HILL FALLS, PA | In 2011, author Danny Marvin and his family experienced a shocking loss after his son Josh took his own life. Using the pain from this tragedy as a catalyst, Marvin published “Dirty Mary” 10 years removed.
Dirty Mary covers a range of topics, including mental health awareness, ignoring the signs of suicide, psychiatrists pushing pills, dissociative identity disorder, and trauma. Dirty Mary is a look into the life of a young woman fighting to overcome the past.
Meeting at High Acres Park, a central location in Dirty Mary,
Marvin shared past experiences that inspired him to write the story, as well as his take on the mistreatment of people battling mental illness and more. Marvin also touches on his first book, American Vengeance, a futuristic story of a divergent neural genius who overcomes his disadvantages and becomes a hero. WATCH VIDEO.
Statistics
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI):
- 79% of all people who die by suicide are male.
- Although more women than men attempt suicide, men are 4x more likely to die by suicide.
- Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10–14 and the 3rd leading cause of death among people aged 15-24 in the U.S.
- Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death overall in the U.S.
- 46% of people who die by suicide had a diagnosed mental health condition – but research shows that 90% may have experienced symptoms of a mental health condition.
NAMI also states that suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. Suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.
Resources:
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Number: 988
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Website: 988lifeline.org
