This episode is a practical, compassionate walkthrough of what to say and do when someone hints at suicide—especially in high-stress clinical settings. Counselor and spiritual leader Steven Kalas joins me to unpack clear steps you can use right away: how to make the covert overt, ask direct safety questions, assess plan → means → intent, remove access to means, and when/how to request a welfare check. This is education for prevention and immediate help—not sensational content.

You’ll learn

The exact phrasing to turn vague comments into a real conversation (“Are you going to kill yourself tonight?”)

How to quickly gauge plan, means, and intent—and what to do at each level

Scripts for setting loving boundaries (“I can’t carry this alone; your spouse has to know by Sunday”)

What not to do (no promises of secrecy, no graphic method talk)

How dentists can act as gatekeepers for colleagues and team members under pressure

If you’re in crisis or supporting someone who is:

U.S.: Call or text 988 (24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)

Canada: Call or text 988 (24/7)

UK & ROI: Samaritans 116 123 (24/7)

Australia: Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7)

If you’re elsewhere, search your country’s suicide/crisis hotline. If someone is in immediate danger, call local emergency services now.

Disclaimer: This content is for education and support. It’s not medical, psychological, or legal advice. Seek professional care when needed.

Guest: Steven Kalas — counselor, author, spiritual leader

Host: Richard Low, DDS — Next Level Dentist