Episode 649
Suicide Prevention and Comedy – Frank King pt 2
Suicide Prevention and Comedy
Frank King pt 1
Frank King, aka The Mental Health Comedian, is a Suicide Prevention and Postvention Public Speaker and Trainer who turned a lifelong battle with depression into a keynote worth sharing. After writing for the “Tonight Show for over 20 years, Frank turned his mission to and effort to end the stigma surrounding mental health by share his insights with anyone and everyone who will listen. And he openly addresses the topic of suicide which has been considered taboo in today’s society. Although there is an awareness factor that is taking shape now.
In an effort to “start the conversation,” Frank uses comedy. Not a “let’s laugh it off” comedy. But stories from his own past. His own experiences. He addresses his own trials and tribulations using a tool people from all walks of life can relate to, humor. By using comedy, he lets others know that they are not alone. In fact, that is one reason I was interested in talking with Frank and reached out to him on LinkedIn. If you’ve been listening to my program for awhile, you’ve heard my story of how I was within hours of ending my own life 25 years ago.
Frank has thought about killing himself more times than he can count. Like many of us, depression and suicide run in his family. With his TED Talk "A Matter of Life or Death” he openly addresses this topic and I recommend you view it. He is also a podcaster, co-hosting the “Suicide Prevention Punchline” available at www.suicidepreventionpunchline.com
Let’s move over into digital media in today’s culture. Social media has its own unique way of increasing suicidal thoughts and tendencies, correct?
What are some risk factors involving dangerous social media things that could be moving someone towards thoughts of suicide?
What is “Postvention?” I see that term on your website?
Being a military veteran and also a retired police officer, I’ve known several people that have committed suicide. Friends that everyone said, “He would have been the last person I ever expected this from.” What special concerns or risk factors should we be aware of concerning the military or law enforcement personnel that could be thinking along these lines?
And you’re an author as well, correct?
Tell us about your book…”Guts Grit and the Grind” (Releasing in March 1, 2020)
Frank, this information is so important. And I want to thank you for shining a light into this area of darkness in a way that allows it to be part of a main stream discussion. So often, the topic of suicide is swept under the carpet and shunned. I want to thank you for bringing it out in a way that will allow everyone to recognize it and, hopefully, discuss it.
Frank if someone wanted to get in touch with you, to ask a question or invite you out to speak or do an interview such as this, how can they do that? How can they get in touch with you?
Oh, let’s talk about your podcast for a minute…
Folks, I cannot recommend Frank King and his key notes to you enough. If you are holding any type of event whether it is business or ministry or suicide prevention – you need to get in touch with Frank King. He has given talks to the construction industry, colleges and even farmers! Praise God! Go to his website, www.thementalhealthcomedian.comand take a look around. You will find so much information on the website. And be sure to subscribe to his podcast, www.suicidepreventionpunchline.com as well.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Website: www.thementalhealthcomedian.com
Podcast: www.suicidepreventionpunchline.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankkingthemhcomedian/
Book: www.gutsgritgrind.com
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
Veteran Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 Option 1
Mentioned in this episode:
Join FaithCaster Academy
Use coupon code KCR at checkout and receive one 40% off your membership!
Join FaithCaster Today!
Check out FaithCasters and join the only Christian Podcast Networking platform that brings together "Great Christian Podcasters and Great Christian Guests!" https://FaithCaster.org