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Editor’s note: This story deals with the subjects of depression and suicide. If you, or anyone you know, is experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can contact the National Suicide Hotline by phone (1-800-273-8255) or text (send HOME to 741741).
In this episode, Jake Wiskerchen and host Jonathan have a conversation with Chris Malenab, an assistant coach with the Reno 1868 FC, who survived a suicide attempt in January of 2019, and is out telling his story. He’s using his own experience to meet with people and talk to them about mental health and how to prevent suicide.
Mental Health: Removing the Stigma
Chris is a dad and he’s been a coach in the league for six years, four with Sacramento and this, his second year with Reno. Listening to him talk about his mental health is something that we hope will encourage our listeners and readers to talk openly about their own. Jake, of course, as a licensed family therapist, has a strong opinion about just how important it is to address the things in our lives that cause us to feel one way or another. Unfortunately there’s still a stigma attached to seeking help in the form of therapy or other forms of psychiatric treatment. Especially among men. Jake’s on a mission to create a space where everyone can be as open and vulnerable as Chris – when you need help, go out and find it. Even when things are “okay”, it’s a good idea to check “under the hood” and have a conversation with a professional about your emotional well being.
Chris says that the 1868 FC organization was there to support him, and made sure that he could openly talk about his mental illness and that his team was there to make sure he knew he could count on them, on and off the field.
September 10, 2019: World Suicide Prevention Day
September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day, and here at Reno Dads, we want you to know that you’re not alone. If you feel like you need to talk to someone, there are always places you can turn, like the Nevada Coalition for Suicide Prevention, or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. There is even an effort by the FCC to create a national emergency number like 911
We really hope that you give this episode a listen. Read about Chris’ story or watch some of the coverage from our local news. He’s an inspirational dad, coach, and human being.
Do you have a story you’d like to talk about on our podcast? Is there someone we should meet and have on the show? Click on Contact Us, and get in touch!
You can find all of our podcast episodes here at Reno Dads.
Show Highlights
- Team Introductions: Jonathan Salkoff, Jake Wiskerchen
- Conversation with Chris Malenab
Rad Links Mentioned in the Episode
- Reno Dads Podcast (iTunes)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- Psychology Today – Find a Therapist
- Brand New Day
- WTTA.org (Walk the Talk America) – Free Mental Health Screening Online
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