TAMPA, Fla. — In honor of Anthony Bourdain's birthday, chefs around the world have declared June 25 "Bourdain Day."
Some are celebrating by sharing memories and tributes using the hashtag #BourdainDay.
In Tampa, restaurant owner Dave Burton decided to use Bourdain Day to raise awareness for suicide prevention programs available in the Tampa Bay area. Burton's dad died by suicide around the same time as Bourdain.
"I thought what better way to honor him and raise funds for a great organization like the Crisis Center," Burton said.
If you visit Tampa Pizza Company, GenX Tavern, or Flock and Stock on June 25th, 15 percent of your purchase will be donated to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay to benefit suicide prevention.
"It could be your best friend, could be your spouse," restaurant customer Debbie Rogers told 10News. "I had some of that with some of my friends; it’s a very sad situation because a lot of times you don’t realize what’s going on."
Last year, the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay provided suicide prevention assessments to more than 5,000 members of the Tampa community. These numbers continue to go up each year, especially in weeks surrounding public suicides.
If you have suicidal thoughts, there is help available. People living in the Tampa Bay area can call 211 or 1-800-273-TALK to receive confidential help 24/7.
The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay said fewer suicides are being reported in Hillsborough County than nearby counties like Pinellas and Pasco, but overall trends suggest an increase in deaths by suicide. The Crisis Center said there is no single reason experts have identified.
The Crisis Center gave us the following advice:
If you are concerned about someone, what should you do?
- Talk to them, ask about it if you feel comfortable doing so
- Doing so will let them know you care
- Know there are people who are available 24/7 who will be happy to answer your questions and address your concerns
- When you call 2-1-1/1800-273-TALK there is an individual will talk with you about your concerns and discuss some options that may be likely to help
What are some warning signs that might indicate someone is considering taking their own life?
- Everyone experiences distress differently
- A mental or physical health diagnosis, chronic pain
- A dramatic change in a person’s talk (I want to die, unbearable pain, I have no reason to live, etc.), behavior (increased substance use, isolating behavior, etc.) and mood (increased anxiety, anger, sadness, and even relief and sudden improvement)
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The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 can be reached at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).