When it comes to suicide prevention, many of us freeze - unsure what to say, afraid of making things worse, or paralyzed by the weight of the topic. In this powerful conversation, Jessica Greenwalt sits down with Jacqueline Sharp, Area Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, to dismantle myths and provide clear, evidence-based guidance that could save lives.
"Are you thinking about killing yourself?" It's a question many of us fear asking, but Sharp explains why it's one of the most important questions we can voice. Contrary to popular belief, asking directly about suicide doesn't plant the idea; instead, it creates space for honesty and can provide immense relief to someone suffering in silence.
The conversation unpacks two fundamental principles of suicide prevention: time and distance. Creating time allows someone's brain to move beyond crisis, while establishing distance between a person and potential lethal means dramatically reduces risk. These insights have fueled innovations like the Community Armory Project, which provides locations where people can voluntarily surrender firearms temporarily during a mental health crisis, a program that now has 12 locations across Arkansas.
Sharp also addresses the power of language, explaining why phrases like "committed suicide" perpetuate stigma by implying criminality or moral failure. "Individuals who die by suicide, they're not committing a crime," she explains. "You wouldn't say someone 'committed cancer.'" This subtle but crucial language shift acknowledges suicide as a health issue rather than a moral failing.
For those supporting suicide loss survivors, the discussion offers compassionate guidance: say the deceased person's name, understand that grief isn't linear, and recognize that checking in consistently matters. The episode concludes with information about the "Do You Have Eight Minutes?" campaign, which provides a simple code phrase people can use when they need support but struggle to directly express their pain.
Whether you're concerned about a loved one, supporting someone grieving a suicide loss, or simply want to be better prepared to help, this episode provides practical, life-saving information delivered with compassion and clarity. Remember: in a crisis, call or text 988 for immediate support.
If you are in an crisis or feel unsafe, call or text 988 or dial 911 for immediate support. There are people out there who will listen and can help.
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