Donate
'Running on Empty: Antidepressants and Youth Suicide' by Richard Vernall

'Running on Empty: Antidepressants and Youth Suicide' by Richard Vernall

Social Issues Jul 16, 2024 • Richard Vernall

"Running on Empty" by Richard Vernall is a crucial and deeply insightful exploration into one of the most pressing issues facing New Zealand today: youth suicide and the use of antidepressants. This meticulously researched book delves into the disturbing statistics of youth suicide rates in New Zealand, providing a historical overview from the 1980s to the present day. Vernall presents a compelling argument that, despite the widespread prescription of antidepressants, there has been negligible progress in reducing these tragic deaths.

Vernall's work stands out due to its thorough analysis and presentation of data, making it not just a narrative but an evidence-based examination of mental health interventions. The book reviews scientific studies on the adverse effects of antidepressants, questioning the efficacy of current medical practices and highlighting the urgent need for alternative strategies. This critical perspective is not only enlightening but necessary, as it challenges readers to reconsider how mental health is addressed within the healthcare system.

What makes "Running on Empty" particularly impactful is its holistic approach. Vernall doesn't stop at highlighting the problems but also explores potential preventative strategies and the broader implications of mental health on academic achievement and overall well-being. This makes the book a comprehensive resource for anyone involved in mental health, education, or policy-making.

The endorsements from experts in the field, such as Dr. James Hollings from Massey University and Professor Julia Rucklidge from the University of Canterbury, underscore the book's significance. They commend Vernall for his dedication to bringing this critical information to light, emphasizing the book's importance for health professionals, policymakers, and the general public.

In conclusion, "Running on Empty" is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand and address the complexities of youth mental health and suicide. Richard Vernall's thorough research and compelling arguments make this book not just informative but a catalyst for change. It is a vital contribution to public discourse, urging a re-evaluation of current practices and advocating for more effective, compassionate solutions.

This book is a must-read for educators, mental health professionals, policymakers, and anyone committed to improving the mental health and well-being of young people in New Zealand and beyond.

You can purchase Richard’s book here:

Or download the e-book here: 

 

 

Support

Life can be hard sometimes, but we want you to know it's easy to find help. If you've been affected by any of the content of this article, or need to talk to someone please visit our Need Help? page or help us support others - Make A Donation

Newsletter

For the latest news, keep up-to-date with the Kiwis For Good Foundation newsletter.

SSRI’s Used To Destroy Love? Epstein’s Chilling Vision And NZ’s Youth Crisis Social Issues SSRI’s Used To Destroy Love? Epstein’s Chilling Vision And NZ’s Youth Crisis As fresh revelations continue to emerge from the Jeffrey Epstein files almost daily, Kiwis For Good feels compelled to restate its resolute position as a leading advocate for genuine mental health in New Zealand—particularly with regard to the widespread use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the dominant class of antidepressants. Read Youth19 Rangatahi Smart Survey Sheds Light on New Zealand’s Y-NEET Crisis PoliticsSocial IssuesCulture Youth19 Rangatahi Smart Survey Sheds Light on New Zealand’s Y-NEET Crisis A recent report from the Youth19 Rangatahi Smart Survey reveals concerning findings about the health and well-being of young New Zealanders not in education, employment, or training (Y-NEETs). The survey, which is part of the broader Youth2000 series, highlights the significant challenges these young people face, as well as their untapped potential. Read New Zealand Launches Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2025–2029 Social Issues New Zealand Launches Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2025–2029 The Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2025–2029 builds on the 2019 'Every Life Matters' strategy and sets out a focused, time-bound series of actions aimed at saving lives and improving outcomes for vulnerable communities. Read Surge in SSRI Prescriptions Raises Concerns for Youth Mental Health Social Issues Surge in SSRI Prescriptions Raises Concerns for Youth Mental Health Disturbing trends have emerged from recent data provided by the Ministry of Health in New Zealand revealing a fourfold increase in SSRI prescriptions for children aged 19 and under from 2010 to 2021. Read Unconditional Love, Ageing with Dignity, and Recognising Narcissism Social IssuesCulture Unconditional Love, Ageing with Dignity, and Recognising Narcissism For nearly sixteen years, I worked as a diversional therapist at Princess Alexandra Retirement Village in Napier. Two weeks ago, I made the difficult decision to resign. Read How it feels to be a loving but emotionally incompetent man Social IssuesCulture How it feels to be a loving but emotionally incompetent man I’m one of the lucky ones. As a therapist, I see the usual outcome of childhood trauma: broken relationships and lifelong emotional difficulties. The stories shared in a recent documentary about the emotional impact of English boarding schools, ‘Boarding on Insanity’, reminded me of my own experiences and prompted me to share my learning. Read
Help Us Help Others!

Your donations are incredibly important for us, and enable us to use our initiatives to help our fellow Kiwis.

Donate today
Categories
About
Join Our Newsletter

For the latest news and projects, keep up-to-date with our newsletter. We promise not to spam you; we get enough of that ourselves!