In his job at a local pizzeria and bakery, Mike Ripperger serves up more than dough and toppings. “I like to put smiles on people's face,” he says. “I bring not only pizza, but I bring smiles to the bakery.” Despite his infectious laugh and joyful personality today, the road here wasn’t easy. More than 10 years ago, … [Read more...] about Mike’s mental health journey
Mental Health Month – Anxiety and COVID-19
Anxiety, per the National Institute of Mental Health, is a perfectly natural response to stressful stimuli. However, this is different from anxiety disorders, which are persistent and seemingly random. Often these disorders will affect daily activities and inhibit growth in several areas, such as career goals and … [Read more...] about Mental Health Month – Anxiety and COVID-19
Suicide survivor finds renewed purpose
October 10 marks World Mental Health Day. 2019's theme is suicide prevention. According to the World Health Organization, every 40 seconds, someone loses their life to suicide. Two hours. That’s how close the doctors said Andrea Huston was to death by suicide. Last December was bleak for the Kahoka, Missouri, … [Read more...] about Suicide survivor finds renewed purpose
Honoring our veterans by offering our help
Suicide rates increased in 49 states, including Iowa, from 1999 to 2016. As overall rates rise, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has reported veterans are twice as likely as civilians to die by suicide. While the factors contributing to deaths by suicide are far too complex to nail down in simple terms, there … [Read more...] about Honoring our veterans by offering our help
Suicide: What to look for and how to help others
The recent deaths of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, both of whom recently died by suicide, have reminded us to pay attention to what has become an epidemic in our country. We need to better educate ourselves so we can see the warning signs in loved ones and equip ourselves with the tools to help those who are on the … [Read more...] about Suicide: What to look for and how to help others