Talking Suicide: Essential Conversations with Paul Bertrand
I want to teach you how to have a conversation with somebody that's thinking of suicide and keep them alive, keep them safe.
How do you talk about something as heavy as suicide? In this episode of 'Recovery Is Possible', Michael Van Meter invites Paul Bertrand, a retired FBI Agent and current suicide prevention trainer, to tackle this tough subject head-on. Paul shares his journey from the FBI to his work with LivingWorks, where he provides training solutions for suicide prevention.
They dive into the importance of having open, honest conversations with those who are struggling, breaking down the stigma around mental health, and the crucial role of empathy in these discussions. Paul offers practical advice on how to approach someone who might be contemplating suicide, emphasizing the power of simply being there and listening. The episode also explores the connections between addiction, self-medication, and suicidal thoughts, highlighting the need for finding purpose and meaning in life.
This conversation is raw but hopeful, aiming to equip listeners with the tools to support themselves and others. If you or someone you know is battling suicidal thoughts, this episode is a must-listen.