Jennifer Wright-Berryman: Crafting Community Solutions to Suicide Prevention
So on, one thing you just said, and I think part of your work is engaging parents. And we're very comfortable asking kids about physical health.We don't know what to do, and so we may try to comfort but we don't know what actions to actually take to help the child live through that or move through that.
How do you turn personal tragedy into a movement for change? Jennifer Wright-Berryman has the answer. In this episode of 'Stigmatized', she opens up about her journey from experiencing a wave of adolescent suicides in her hometown to becoming a leading suicidologist. Jennifer, an assistant professor at the University of Cincinnati, shares her passion for suicide awareness and prevention, which was ignited by the tragic loss of young lives in Columbus, Indiana.
She didn't just stand by; she rallied her community to create a robust, community-based suicide prevention model that has now gained national traction. Jennifer's approach isn't just theoretical—it's deeply practical and rooted in real-world application. She talks about her work with Hope Squad, a peer-to-peer suicide prevention program that's making waves in schools across the country. This program empowers students to support each other, breaking down barriers and fostering a culture of care and vigilance.
Jennifer also dives into the critical role parents play in suicide prevention and how essential it is to remove the stigma surrounding mental health issues. You'll also hear about the impact of media on suicide prevention efforts. Jennifer's insights reveal how responsible media coverage can make a significant difference in public perception and awareness.
If you're someone who cares about mental health, whether personally or professionally, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable advice on how communities can come together to prevent suicide. So, if you're looking for inspiration and practical solutions to tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time, don't miss out on Jennifer Wright-Berryman's story. It's a powerful reminder that change is possible when we come together with compassion and determination.