Innovative Suicide Prevention Efforts by 1° of Separation Reach Across the Nation This September

Innovative Approach to Suicide Prevention

1° of Separation, spearheaded by comedian Brad Bonar Jr., is launching an extensive initiative aimed at suicide prevention across the United States this September. By creatively combining humor with essential mental health training, the organization hopes to spark open dialogues about depression and the often-taboo subject of suicide.

An Expanding Mission

In 2026, 1° of Separation will host 16 major events across 11 states, directly engaging service members, veterans, and local communities—from Indiana to Hawaii. This effort builds upon their impressive history: more than 400 events conducted, outreach to 120 military installations, and over 100,000 “Five Questions” cards distributed to facilitate conversations.

Brad Bonar Jr., the heart behind this nonprofit, firmly believes in the power of dialogue. He emphasizes, "Talking is the first step in addressing depression."

Comedy as a Tool for Connection

1° of Separation employs stand-up comedy to tackle uncomfortable subjects head-on. By using humor, Bonar and the team of comedians create a comfortable environment where individuals can discuss their vulnerabilities without fear of judgment. Through their unique “Five Questions” framework, they model what a non-judgmental conversation about mental health looks like. Bonar often states, "We teach people how to engage in these crucial dialogs and demonstrate effective communication techniques."

During a recent presentation, he assured attendees, "You will walk away today with a new skill. You will be equipped to recognize the signs of depression and engage in meaningful conversations."

The September schedule includes stops at various military bases, ensuring that both active duty and veteran communities have access to these vital resources. Locations include Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, and Joint Base Andrews, among others.

Bridging the Gap

What makes 1° of Separation stand out is its commitment to reaching a diverse audience. Bonar articulates that the initial support person for someone struggling with mental health may not always be a mental health professional, but more often is a friend or a colleague.

The organization aims to empower everyday individuals to notice, listen, and ask questions that can lead to life-saving conversations. “If you don’t struggle with depression, you definitely know someone who does,” Bonar explains, highlighting the universal reach of this issue.

Turning Awareness into Action

For 1° of Separation, September’s Suicide Prevention Month is both a time for raising awareness and a call to action. It’s about transforming knowledge into concrete steps forward, emphasizing that a simple, honest conversation can make all the difference.

About 1° of Separation

Founded as a California-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, 1° of Separation’s flagship program, "A Funny Look at Depression and Suicide," blends comedy, real-life experiences, and practical questioning techniques. Through this innovative approach, they aim to dismantle stigma around mental health issues, enabling individuals to initiate conversations that are often left unspoken.

In a world where mental health challenges affect many, the initiative from 1° of Separation stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us that laughter and openness can pave the way for healing and support.