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.

The NZ wellbeing budget - An historic moment in our nations history. PoliticsBusinessSocial Issues The NZ wellbeing budget - An historic moment in our nations history. New Zealand's Labour coalition government has done something that could prove historic. Led by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, it has produced the world's first "wellbeing" Budget, focused explicitly on a single goal: using its limited funds to promote the wellbeing of its citizens. Read Our little miracle Social IssuesCulture Our little miracle Katie was born on the 8th of May 2001 at 6.45 in the morning, weighing only 5 and a half ounces we called her our little miracle.  Read Are We Overlooking the Obvious? Psychiatric Medications and the Rise in Violence Social Issues Are We Overlooking the Obvious? Psychiatric Medications and the Rise in Violence As psychiatric prescribing rises, are its potential risks receiving enough public scrutiny? Adapted from Richard Vernall’s work, this opinion piece explores reported associations with violence, the importance of informed choice, and broader approaches to supporting young people’s mental wellbeing in New Zealand. Read Project: You Are Loved - The 2000km Walk for Suicide Prevention PoliticsEnvironmentSocial IssuesCulture Project: You Are Loved - The 2000km Walk for Suicide Prevention Meet the woman walking 2000km from Bluff to Cape Reinga. Spreading her message of Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention, Rebecca Kylie Jacobs will be taking the first steps of her massive journey from Stirling Point on February 13th 2020. Read Christmas is here, and all that it brings Social IssuesCulture Christmas is here, and all that it brings You are probably sat reading this with a glass of bubbles in hand and loved ones dotted around busily opening presents or firing up the BBQ, the cat may have torn down the Christmas tree and batted the baubles across the living room floor... Read Bungee Jumping's Forgotten Pioneer BusinessSocial IssuesTechnologyCulture Bungee Jumping's Forgotten Pioneer The first time I met David Kirke, New Zealand's forgotten pioneer and the worlds first bungee jumper. Who you ask? Most people in New Zealand would never have heard the name David Kirke the man that created the now quintessentially Kiwi extreme sport with an illegal jump from the Clifton Suspension Bridge in 1979 at the city of Bristol, England. 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!