1. A Strengths-based approach to suicide prevention What you should know and what you can do
Presented in Collaboration with the Big Sky Youth Empowerment Program
John Sommers-Flanagan, Ph.D., University of Montana
Department of Counselor Education or

2. Thanks to BYEP

3. Introductions John SF – My background – University of Montana
Talking about suicide is “one” of my favorite topics
Blogging at johnsommersflanagan.com
And you survey?

4. The Plan We will discuss The meaning of suicidal thoughts
Suicide myths and fears
What suicidality looks like across six different life domains
Traditional warning signs
How to ask and what to say
Resources

5. Introductions II None Of Us Are Getting Out Of Here Alive... Ready?
“... So please stop treating yourself like an afterthought. Eat the delicious food. Walk in the sunshine. Jump in the ocean. Say the truth you’re carrying in your heart like hidden treasure. Be silly. Be kind. Be weird. There’s no time for anything else.” - Nanea Hoffman
Ready?

6. Information
Although potentially useful, the information I provide today is general and educational and should NOT be considered medical advice.
If you or your friends, family, or coworkers are experiencing depression or suicidal impulses, you should consult with a licensed health or mental health professional.
Talk about sex loud in public

7. Our Ground Rules Include
Be open to learning
Communicate respectfully
Engage in learning activities to whatever extent you’re comfortable [*ignore me as needed*]
Take care of yourself while we learn together

8. Let’s think about suicide
In 1973, Edwin Shneidman, wrote the Encyclopedia Britannica’s definition of suicide:
Suicide is not a disease (although there are those who think so); it is not, in the view of the most detached observers, an immorality.

9. Suicide and suicidal thoughts . . .
Are not a disease or illness
Are not a moral failing
Most people who think about suicide are sensitive, thoughtful, and intelligent

10. Strength-Based Holistic model
A strength-based, holistic, model empowers those who struggle with suicide and those who want to help
We focus on strength and wellness, not just problems and illness
What’s good about you?

11. Myth busting – I
Myth: Suicide Ideation isn’t only about DEATH or DYING
Nope: It’s about EXCRUCIATING OR UNBEARABLE PSYCHOLOGICAL OR EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
Reducing and helping people cope with distress is nearly always the primary focus

12. Myth busting – II
Myth: Suicidal thoughts and gestures ARE SIGNS OF DEVIANCE or illness
Nope: About 10% of human population will attempt suicide; 20% struggle with SI + SP
Up to 50% of teens; over 50% of suicide deaths had no mental disorder diagnosis (CDC, 2018)

13. Myth busting – III Myth: Suicide is predictable and preventable
Nope Suicide is very hard to predict and prevent
IS PATH WARM SAD PERSONS SCALE
Everyone is unique in what is needed for support and help

14. Statistics U.S. Suicide Rates: 14/100,000 Montana Rates: 26/100,000
Montana Females: 11/100,000
Montana Native Americans: 29/100,000
Montana Males: 38/100,000
Montana Veterans: 66/100,000

15. Fear busting
Fear: Asking about suicide might cause the person to think of suicide or make it worse.
Nope Nearly everyone reports that being asked is a relief.
People are more resilient than that.

16. Fear busting – II
Fear: Being direct might open up things more than you feel you can handle.
Maybe But don’t underestimate the power of just being there and being a caring friend or family member
Fancy techniques are no substitute for caring

17. Case – Cory – A Suicidal Situation
Short interview clip 1:51:30 – 1:54:45 Debrief on usefulness of talking

18. Volunteer Activity

19. Domains, Problems, Solutions
Problems and Solutions
Cognitive/Mental
Hopelessness, mental constriction, negative memories. Try to lend your hope; assist with brainstorming and problem-solving
Emotional
Excruciating distress; stuck in negative mood. Normalize suicidal thoughts as natural. Help track what lifts mood. How can you help with mood, but not say “cheer up.” Separate distress from the self.
Social/Interpersonal
Social disconnection/withdrawal/burden. Recruit family/friend support. Recommend a therapy relationship for support.
Physical/Health
Addictions, physical illness. Help generate alternatives to substances. Support positive, hopeful healthcare.
Cultural/Heritage
A sense of meaninglessness. Encourage involvement with social, community, or accepting religious/spiritual groups. Explore values.
Behavioral/Intent
Cutting. Stockpiling pills. Firearms. Referral for professional help. Call Ask to keep lethal means for them.

20. What to Listen For Mostly listen for and be accepting of:
Emotional pain
A sense of feeling trapped or ashamed
Not believing or feeling that anything can possibly help
While listening, show empathy and compassion— even if you think the person is being dramatic.

21. Traditional Warning Signs
These may not always be true, but worth knowing
Active suicidal thinking that includes planning and intent
Preparation and rehearsal behaviors (pills/guns)
Hopelessness
Recklessness, impulsivity, dramatic mood changes
Anger, anxiety, and agitation
Feeling trapped
No reasons for living, no purpose in life, broken relations
Increased alcohol or substance abuse
Immense shame or self-hatred

22. How Should I Ask?
The answer to this is always, “Ask directly.” But we can do even better than that.
We need to de-shame suicidal thoughts
Before asking, communicate that you know suicidal thoughts are a normal and natural response to emotional pain and disturbing situations.

23. Practicing: How Should I Ask?
Try out something like this:
“I’ve recently learned that it’s not unusual for people to think about suicide. Have you had any thoughts about suicide?”

24. What Should I Say? Thanks for telling me.
Thanks for being so honest, that takes courage.
I know I can’t instantly make everything better, but I want you to live and I want to help.
How can I best support you right now?
What can we do together that would help?
When you want to give up, tell yourself you will hold off for just one more day, hour, minute—whatever you can manage.

25. [Optional] Three-Step Emotional Change Demo
Honor and feel the feeling
Think a new/different thought or do something different
Spread the good mood

26. Resources
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call TALK ( )
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to
Bozeman Help Center – 24-Hour Crisis Line: (406)

27. Conclusion: Summary Closing Story What would you like to remember?
Q & R time

28. Conclusion: Reminders
The mind is a terrible place to go Alone
Which is why we should keep on talking—directly to each other and to other friends, family, and community—about suicide and suicide prevention.
Info at: johnsommersflanagan.com