#United States #Suicide Prevention #Alaska Natives #1° of Separation #Unalaska

1° of Separation: Using Humor to Combat Suicide in Alaska

In an innovative approach to mental health awareness, 1° of Separation, a nonprofit organization, is providing a unique avenue for suicide prevention through comedy. Recognized for its impactful programs, the organization focuses on breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues within communities that face the highest suicide rates in the nation, notably among Alaska Natives and veterans.

The Gathering in Unalaska

On July 10-13, 2025, 1° of Separation is set to present at the Alaska Native Cultural Health and Resilience Gathering (ANCHR) held in Unalaska, Alaska. This event, funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs, aims to foster community wellness and resilience while addressing historical trauma. With a focus on the unique challenges faced by Alaska Native populations, the gathering emphasizes the importance of cultural healing and mental health support.

Brad Bonar Jr., the founder of 1° of Separation, expressed honor in being part of this gathering, noting that the event aligns with the rich traditions of storytelling and healing within Alaska Native culture.

A Unique Approach to Training

1° of Separation's training program employs an interactive format that combines clean comedy with heartfelt stories from comedians who openly discuss their struggles with depression. This method serves as a powerful tool to create a feeling of safety and openness among participants.

As Bonar articulated, laughter acts as a “numbing agent” before serious conversations about mental health begin. “When you're laughing, it brings calm and safety,” he noted, alluding to the chemical changes laughter induces in the brain, which facilitate more profound discussions on challenging topics.

Following a comedic performance, participants engage in a candid panel discussion where comedians answer a set of five poignant questions that delve into their personal experiences with depression. Here are the Five Questions:
1. What does your depression feel like?
2. What do others do that makes it worse?
3. What do others do that makes it better?
4. What do you do that makes it worse?
5. What do you do that makes it better?

Each attendee receives a card containing these questions, which serves as a practical tool for initiating and sustaining their own conversations about mental health, thereby fostering a community of support and understanding.

The Stakes are High

The urgency of these programs cannot be overstated. With suicide rates among Alaska Natives soaring as high as 60.5 per 100,000 in rural areas, the need for culturally sensitive suicide prevention measures has never been more critical. Young members of these communities, along with veterans, are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues, highlighting the necessity for targeted interventions.

In an insightful statement, Bonar highlighted the pervasive nature of depression: “Depression has one degree of separation; if you don't suffer from it, someone you know does.” By using humor as a vessel for dialogue, 1° of Separation aims to dismantle the barriers of silence and stigma surrounding these crucial topics.

Transforming Conversations

Since its inception, 1° of Separation has distributed over 60,000 Five Questions cards both nationally and internationally, transforming mental health dialogues into actionable and stigma-breaking interactions. The organization’s mission is clear: to save lives and reduce stigma through honest, open conversations about mental health and suicide.

The innovative concept merges the art of stand-up comedy with essential Mental Health First Aid training, creating a safe and engaging environment for audiences to learn while laughing. This fresh approach has garnered attention across various media platforms and has been featured in notable outlets, including KCRA News and the military press.

Building Resilience Through Laughter

Through the use of personal stories, humor, and interactive conversations, 1° of Separation aspires to inspire hope and resilience within individuals and communities grappling with mental health struggles. Their mission underscores that laughter, far from being a trivial pursuit, is a necessary component in the battle against depression and suicide.

Learn more about this inspiring organization and its mission on their official website: 1° of Separation.

By placing humor at the forefront of serious discussions, 1° of Separation is not just addressing immediate mental health needs; they are changing how communities confront and manage the challenges associated with depression and suicide, one laugh at a time.