Leaving The Valley Kimi Buser-Clancy: Actor, Writer, Optimist & Dr. Sam Buser: Psychologist &

In the conclusion of our chat with Dr. Kathryn Hope Gordon, author of “The Suicidal Thoughts Workbook,” we examine one of the leading causes for suicidal thinking: the end of a relationship. It is well understood that people who perceive themselves as alone are at a higher risk for suicidal thinking. Dr. Gordon explains how the perception of “feeling isolated” can sometimes be different than outward appearance might suggest. Well-loved, highly popular people die by suicide. There is often a tendency for those close to an individual who is struggling to dismiss the risk of suicide. We explore why that can occur and some of the more empathetic ways to connect to a person in need.

We often discuss that the road to meaningful change involves putting one foot in front of the other day after day.  This is true for long term goals like learning a new language, for example. You practice a bit each day and gradually become better. This is especially true of mental health goals, like managing and even overcoming suicidal thoughts. In this episode we had the opportunity to chat with Dr. Kathryn Hope Gordon about “The Suicidal Thoughts Workbook." Dr. Gordon’s book creates practical tools for people to use on an “as needed” basis to develop more positive self-thinking.

We continue Part II of our conversation with Clara Rosenzweig, Director of Vecino Health Centers, a low cost/no cost mental health provider in Houston, Texas. Vecino Health emphasizes care in a person’s native language and serves a predominantly Latin American population. Clara describes the need for services like the one’s provided by Vecino Health and some of the cultural stigmas that may prevent LatinX individuals from asking for help.

We look at the Mexican tradition of Dia de los Muertos. Our special guest, Clara Rosenzweig, Licensed Professional Counselor and Director of Vecino Health Centers, shares memories of growing up in Mexico. Clara recalls the customs she participated in at that time of year. Dia de los Muertos is steeped in traditions around honoring loved ones who have passed. As a podcast about mental health, we couldn't help but reflect on how suicide often complicates the memory of our loved ones. How is honoring our lost loved ones changed by a suicide? Not just for Latin Americans, but for everyone grieving a self-inflicted loss.

In the conclusion of our talk with Fire Captain Scott Shaunfield, we zoom out and look at the broader effects of traumatic stress on First Responders. We ask Capt. Shaunfield to illuminate the damage this work-related condition creates, not just on himself, but on the men and women he serves with. We look at well-supported research that describes what exposure to suicide does to increase suicidal ideation. The number one cause of death for First Responders is not line of duty deaths. It's suicide.

In one of our most heartfelt and difficult conversations, we talk with Fire Captain Scott Shaunfield about what it's like to arrive on the scene of a suicide. First Responders’ jobs include responding to everything from burning buildings, car wrecks, and even suicide attempts. Responding to a suicide is a traumatic event for First Responders and often leaves a lasting effect. Additionally, there is a cumulative toll to experiencing so many different suicides and suicide attempts that puts First Responders at a greater risk for suicide themselves. The guilt and pain that occurs after losing someone to suicide affects First Responders too. Captain Shaunfield describes his own personal history with suicide.