Navigating Difficult Conversations About Suicide with Empathy & Confidence
As a mental health nurse with 15 years of experience, I’ve encountered numerous individuals grappling with suicidal thoughts for various reasons. Equally, I’ve met numerous staff members who feel ill-equipped to broach the topic of suicide, for a variety of reasons.
Acknowledging that discussing suicide can be daunting and frightening, it’s crucial to normalise these conversations. The more we destigmatise the discussion, the more likely individuals are to seek help when needed, potentially averting harmful actions.
Contrary to common belief, discussing suicide doesn’t plant the idea or confirm a plan; rather, it can decrease the likelihood of someone acting on their thoughts (Murphy, 2021). However, many individuals fret about not knowing how to respond when someone confides their suicidal thoughts. Yet, sometimes, simply sitting in silence can provide solace.
In my practice, I often provide therapy for individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and coach staff members to navigate these conversations, bolstering their confidence in addressing mental health concerns. While my focus here is on suicide, these principles apply to all challenging discussions, whether professional or personal.
Drawing from my own privileged experience, I believe it’s a testament to the trust built in a relationship when someone feels comfortable sharing such thoughts, especially if they perceive you as their only confidant.
My foremost advice is to refrain from asking questions you’re unprepared to handle.
If suicide isn’t a topic you’re ready to discuss, it’s best to avoid it altogether to prevent inadvertently harming the person seeking support.
Engaging in these conversations isn’t a mere checklist task; it requires time, patience, and empathy. While not everyone has the luxury of spending extended periods with patients, even brief interactions can be meaningful if conducted effectively.
As the adage goes, people may forget what you say, but they’ll remember how you made them feel – particularly pertinent in discussions about suicide. Mishandling these conversations can inadvertently perpetuate stigma, fostering shame and discouraging individuals from seeking help.
Active listening, seeking context, paraphrasing, and validating are essential components of these discussions. It’s crucial to understand the individual’s needs, desires, and available resources while being honest about one’s limitations.
Having a basic understanding of available options, from medical professionals to helplines and support groups, can provide valuable guidance to individuals in distress. Ultimately, fostering an environment of open communication and empathy is essential in supporting those grappling with suicidal thoughts and other mental health challenges.
References
https://www.unr.edu/nevada-today/news/2021/atp-normalize-talking-about-suicide
Main – Photo by Sydney Sims on Unsplash
