Trigger Warning: Please note that this episode contains depictions of suicide that some people may find disturbing.

The word “suicide” can elicit many different reactions or responses from people. And for the longest time, the mental health problems or life circumstances that may be factors leading to it have been misunderstood, overlooked, or even avoided. Though more and more people are raising awareness about suicide prevention, it is still considered a topic of discussion that many of us would not want to engage in. More so, a lot of us dread being in a situation where we are compelled to actually talk with and help a person who is planning to commit suicide. Perhaps because we know deep inside that it’s not just about asking the difficult question, “Are you planning to end your life?” But the terrifying thing is that we don’t know what the answer is going to be. 

In the last episode, I poured out my sentiments and insights about this issue which is considered a sensitive but highly relevant topic. This time, Luis Weger – a certified Master Suicide Intervention Trainer – shares more information and wisdom about the factors potentially related to suicide, the difference between warning signs and risk factors, the misconceptions about providing help or interventions, and many more. He also shares valuable resources that can help anyone become better equipped – whether you are a person who wants to extend help or you are at the receiving end and want to reach out. May this episode provide enlightenment and hope, especially to those who need them the most.

Healing Points of This Episode:

• When it comes to helping someone who wants to end their life, remember that it’s never about fixing the problem. It's about being there with them so they know they're not alone.
• It helps if you can recognize the warning signs of suicide, and if you can distinguish between warning signs and risk factors. 

Words of Healing

• There's a lot of meaning that people place in different circumstances, elements, and relationships that can really put them in a dark place. – Luis Weger
• There are lots of risk factors out there, but the warning signs [of suicide] are usually the changes in behavior and the actions that we see happening. – Luis Weger

Resources Mentioned:

• LivingWorks
• ASIST: Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training
• Brené Brown on Empathy vs Sympathy
• Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ
• Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box
• The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
• Mindsight: The New Science of Personal Transformation

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