22 Push Up Challenge -- Is it me or does this seem more like

what cause is it tied to?

22 real pushups isn't easy

22 modified pushups isn't a walk in the park either

or i'm just an out of shape wimp!

gina

So, here's the thing about that kind of clicktivism (or slacktivism, though this is less slacker). It brings awareness. Remember the Ice Bucket Challenge? There was some backlash there, too. People said it was dumb, there were fail videos, people got really annoyed with it. But, it raised over $100 million dollars for ALS research.

So, if this raises awareness and people donate to a worthy cause, I don't really mind that I see a hundred "22 pushup videos" on FB. Because if it saves one life, it's worth it.

Agreed!

That's true for me, too. I had not heard of it until the OP posted this.

If it brings awareness to veterans' suicides, I can't think badly of the campaign.

I hadn't heard of it until this thread.

Too late

I find that too many of the people posting about this cause are the same ones who don't do anything to reduce mental health stigma overall. You want to talk about the Veteran suicide rate? Okay, then talk about mental health treatment, gun control, access to medical care, transitioning services, etc. Do I think that the military in general has came a long way? Yes. Do I think they have a long way to go? Yes. It is more than a number. 22 push-ups means shit when you turn around and say, "Look at that lazy bum begging for money" or "That guy is just dead wood" or if you've ever thought the "hurt feelings report" was funny. Suicide is a final event. Treatment prevents that final event. If you aren't willing to do anything about the treatment then you aren't really doing much to reduce suicide.

Did you know that if you were active duty and died of suicide you DID NOT get a letter from the President thanking them for their service? (This only changed in the last 5 or 6 years). Even if you could directly (i.e. PTSD or depression) tie their suicidality to their service? Did you know that Commander's were allowed to leave any suicide down range OFF of their casualty walls, lists, etc? Do you know how pervasive that level of shaming can harm ANYBODY who is seeking mental health service while wearing a uniform?

You want to be inspired? Do what GEN Chiarelli did after he retired. After lots years of sitting in a chair where every Army suicide was briefed to him (like 800), he changed the way he thought about mental illness and treatment. He soon realized that this was not "a cowards" way out. He now, as a retired general, works to reduce the stigma of treatment. YouTube has a couple videos of him giving speeches about it if you are curious. He was one such commander who left a kids name off the memorial wall. He rectified it.

So if you can give 22 pushups and think you are doing something then get on with your bad self. The organization that started it did it from a good place. They want to raise awareness to suicide. I just wish it would be more about seeking treatment, reducing mental health stigma and increasing access to care. I can't help you when you are dead and if you are willing to die today by your own hand, you and I both know how long you've actually been thinking about it. We missed the opportunity the first time you asked for help "for sleep."

**gingerly steps off soap box while waiting for the Peas to snap, revolt and tell me what a horrible person I am.**

Peasful1 and Z*G I'll go with you both having a shitastic day today...how is 22 push-ups impressive and why am I oblivious? Are you saying doing 22 push ups is an amazing feat? How? Clue me in? Not seeing it.

Awesome awareness campaign ...yes...the action itself...nope...something people do, shorta like other activities we do in a day....I wasn't wowed that people could dump cold water over their head either. Thought that also was a great campaign as well but didn't think 'wow...someone can actually do that.'

I'll put it to the Peas...can you do a push up and if so how many? Is this an amazing activity to you?

This whole thing isn't about how many pushups you or anyone else can do. That's how you're oblivious.
Save

Well said Steph!

not to me

i say good for you

and it doesn't sound snarky...it sounds like you are in shape

i am embarrassed that 22 would be difficult for me

maybe i should do 22 every day until they aren't difficult

i'm actually editing a session i did for a dear friend with severe PTSD - i can't do much to help him other than be a friend to him and his wife.

every little bit helps

off to try some push ups

gina