Larry King Now Season 7 Episode 2 Combatting America's Suicide Crisis

In season 7, episode 2 of Larry King Now, titled "Combatting America's Suicide Crisis," Larry King sits down with mental health experts to discuss the increasing rate of suicides in the United States. In this episode, King talks to two guests: Dr. Christine Moutier, Chief Medical Officer of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and Dr. Doreen Marshall, Vice President of Programs at the foundation.

The show kicks off with a few sobering statistics about suicide rates in the United States. Suicide has become the tenth leading cause of death in the country, with someone dying by suicide every 11 minutes. Dr. Moutier explains that this issue has been growing over the past decade, with rates increasing by around 30% overall.

King turns to Dr. Moutier and asks what the foundation is doing to combat this issue. Dr. Moutier explains that one of the biggest challenges is that suicide is a complex issue that can't be explained by one specific cause. While some people may have a genetic or biological predisposition, other factors like environmental stressors - such as financial difficulties or relationship problems - and access to means of suicide can also play a role.

Dr. Moutier goes on to discuss how the foundation is working to prevent suicide through research, education, and advocacy. She explains that one of the organization's main initiatives is to work with healthcare providers to identify and treat people who may be at risk of suicide. Dr. Marshall adds that the foundation has been working to provide resources and support for people who may be struggling with mental health issues, including people who have lost loved ones to suicide.

King then asks the guests about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people's mental health. Dr. Moutier explains that the pandemic has created a perfect storm of factors that can contribute to suicide risk, including social isolation, financial stress, and uncertainty about the future. She adds that suicide rates have been increasing steadily since 2018, but there was a noticeable uptick after the pandemic began.

The rest of the episode delves into more specific details about suicide prevention, including the importance of recognizing warning signs and how loved ones can support someone who may be struggling with mental health issues. The guests stress the importance of seeking help and the fact that treatment is available and effective.

Overall, "Combatting America's Suicide Crisis" is a thought-provoking and insightful episode that sheds light on the complex issue of suicide in the United States. The guests provide valuable information about prevention and how we can all play a role in supporting those who may be struggling with mental health issues.