Dr. Melinda Moore on Finding Strength After Suicide Loss
We don't say the word committed suicide anymore, because finally we got, you know, those of us who are suicide bereaved, got it through the heads of a lot of researchers, a lot of people sort of in the field who did not understand just how what a mischaracterization that was of what our loved one did or people who are suicidal are doing.
What happens when your world shatters after losing a loved one to suicide? Dr. Melinda Moore, a clinical psychologist and professor at Eastern Kentucky University, knows this pain all too well. In this episode of Writing on the Walls, she sits down with host Rob Hlavaty to share her personal journey following the tragic loss of her then-husband in 1996. This heart-wrenching experience not only changed her life but also redirected her career towards understanding and preventing suicide. Dr.
Moore discusses the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) tool, a method aimed at assessing and intervening in suicidal behavior. She emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of suicide and ensuring that clinicians are well-trained to provide effective interventions. Her work doesn’t stop there; she dives into the concept of posttraumatic growth, explaining how individuals can find strength and new meaning in life after enduring profound tragedy. Listeners will also hear about Dr.
Moore’s efforts with the Veteran population and her exploration of the intersection between faith and suicidality. This episode is packed with insights that could be invaluable for anyone affected by suicide or working in mental health fields. Whether you're looking for understanding, hope, or practical strategies, Dr. Moore's story offers a compelling blend of personal resilience and professional expertise.
Tune in to hear how one woman turned her darkest moments into a mission to help others navigate their own paths to healing.