Ep 19: Part 1 Suicide Awareness - The Silent Struggle: Understanding Suicide Risk and Warning Signs

In Episode 19 of the Unstressed Exec Podcast, Dr. George Vergolias, an executive coach and forensic psychologist, delves into the critical and sensitive topic of suicide for Suicide Awareness Month. This is the first of a three-part series dedicated to suicide awareness and prevention.   Dr. Vergolias provides an in-depth analysis of suicide statistics, risk factors, red flags that are often missed, and debunks common myths associated with suicidal behavior. He emphasizes the importance of early intervention, understanding gender differences in suicide rates, and highlights strategies for effective suicide prevention.   Dr. Vergolias calls for societal changes to support male vulnerability and emotional fluency, offering practical advice on how to check in on and support those at risk. Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for the next episode, which will provide detailed guidance on intervening during a suicidal crisis.   00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 01:51 The Importance of Suicide Awareness 02:19 Statistics on Suicide 03:34 Gender and Suicide Methods 05:12 Relationship and Occupational Risks 08:40 Debunking Myths About Suicide 16:23 Risk Factors for Suicide 27:04 Red Flags Often Missed 27:48 Recognizing Behavioral Changes 30:23 Subtle Signs and Indirect Communications 30:56 Understanding Suicide Risk Factors 31:48 Gender Differences in Suicide 33:12 Emotional Suppression in Men 33:59 Mass Violence and Suicidal Tendencies 38:34 Prevention Strategies 45:25 Final Reflections and Resources   Mentioned Resources: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988 (U.S.) Crisis Text Line — Text HOME to 741741 Veterans Crisis Line — Dial 988, then press 1 Trevor Project — 1-866-488-7386 About the Host – The Unstressed Exec Meet Dr. George Vergolias — a clinical and forensic corporate psychologist turned executive coach with 20+ years at the intersection of leadership, mental resilience, and high performance. George has advised Fortune 500 companies, guided C-suite leaders through crisis, and coached high-achievers to reclaim clarity, calm, and purpose without losing their edge. On The Unstressed Exec, George brings powerful insights from the boardroom to the mic — helping leaders navigate stress, burnout, conflict, and transformation with practical tools and no-BS wisdom. If you're ready to lead with strength and sanity, tune in. And when you're ready to go deeper, reach out for one-on-one executive or leadership coaching. This isn’t therapy — it’s your next level. Let’s build the life and leadership you actually want. 🎯 Listen. Grow. Lead — at The Unstressed Exec 📩 Stay Connected: Website: www.theunstressedexec.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.unstressed.exec TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.unstressed.exec Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the.unstressed.exec YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The_Unstressed_Exec If you like The Unstressed Exec podcast please leave me a review and rate! For more info on my coaching services, keynote speaking and guest speaker/podcast opportunities, please visit my website at: www.theunstressedexec.com