Breaking the Silence: Dr. Julie Cerel on Suicide Exposure and Prevention
Episode Overview
Dr. Julie Cerel discusses her extensive career researching suicide, the #not6 campaign, and the impact of suicide exposure and bereavement. The conversation covers the portrayal of suicide in the media and how suicide differs amongst different cultures. Insights into recent statistics around suicide, including the rising rates of youth suicide, are examined. The discussion challenges the traditional narrative surrounding suicide and provides a fresh perspective on understanding and supporting those affected by suicide. Dr. Cerel emphasizes the importance of being able to openly talk about suicide and its impact for healthier outcomes.
Half of us know someone that's died by suicide. A third of us are probably close to someone that's died by suicide. Even if they haven't talked about it, chances are they really do. Being able to talk about it, getting to a place where you can talk about the cause of death and talk about the person who died by suicide is actually the healthiest way of having good outcomes.
What happens when the silent epidemic of suicide is brought into the light? In this compelling episode of Writing on the Walls, host Rob Hlavaty sits down with Dr. Julie Cerel, a licensed clinical psychologist and a leading figure in suicide prevention research. Dr.
Cerel, who directs the Suicide Prevention & Exposure Lab at the University of Kentucky, brings her wealth of knowledge to the table, discussing everything from the ripple effects of suicide exposure to the nuances of suicide bereavement. Dr. Cerel's career has been dedicated to understanding how suicide impacts communities and individuals. She shares insights from her research, including the eye-opening #not6 campaign, which highlights the extensive number of people affected by each suicide.
The conversation doesn't shy away from tough topics like how different cultures perceive and handle suicide, and the often problematic ways media depicts it. Listeners will find themselves engrossed in discussions that challenge traditional narratives about suicide. Dr. Cerel emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and community support, offering strategies for better supporting those who are affected by suicide.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of this critical issue and learn practical ways to foster a more supportive environment for those touched by suicide.