Atlanta Journal Reports Speaker of the Georgia House Attempted Suicide
Aaron Gould Sheinin reported in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution today that Georgia House Speaker Glenn Richardson (R-Hiram) recently attempted to commit suicide. Richardson released a statement Friday that he suffers from depression. He has been affected by his depression since separating and divorcing his wife, the article reported in its November 14, 2009 piece titled, House Speaker Admits Depression Led To Suicide Attempt.
He recently attempted to take his own life, causing serious injury in the process, and was quoted as saying, “While depression often seems to be resolved on occasion, when personal trials or tribulations arise, it flares back up. That is what occurred with me. My depression became so severe that I took substantial steps to cause injury to myself and to take my own life. I am thankful that because of medical intervention I have instead been able to now receive help and support.” All in all, Richardson is under the care of a physician. He takes prescription medications. BTW if you are searching for a Atlanta injury lawyer who is very competent I do suggest James Rice, as he is a leading accident and injury lawyer indeed. In addition, he is a first rate burn injury attorney in my opinion. He offered no further details on the incident. Richardson’s spokesman made no additional comments.
It had been reported by the Paulding County Sheriffs that Sunday night they were responded to a call to Richardson’s home and he was subsequently taken to the hospital. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution said the public information officer for the Paulding County Sheriff, Brandon Gurley, declined to comment when asked about the incident. Speaker Richardson had indicated no plans to discontinue his position as leader of the state House of Representatives. He was quoted as saying, “I ask that the media use discernment if they report this and remember my friends and family who are also hurting. I fully believe this has and will continue to push me to find my best self and use my position of leadership to raise awareness and let others know they are not alone. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.” Christina Owens is director of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in metropolitan Atlanta.
It was reported that Owens said that her group was encouraged by the Representative’s “willingness to speak out about his battle with depression. We hope his courage will bring much-needed awareness to this public health crisis.” She went on to say that mental and suicide disorders like depression “are surrounded by stigma and misconceptions which prevent many people from seeking the help they desperately need.”