Bring on the Mess! TM - Volume 56 - Suicide Prevention Conversation with Dr. Andy Moon

In this episode of Bring on the Mess, hosts Beth Ann Dorman and Lisa Mulcahy, along with guest Dr. Andrew Moon, discuss suicide prevention in honor of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Dr. Moon, a clinical psychologist who works with the Department of Defense, shares his experiences working with military personnel and his efforts to change policies to support service members and their families.

Key Points:

1.      Importance of Normalizing Suicide Conversations: Dr. Moon emphasizes the need for open discussions about suicide, breaking the stigma to make it easier for people to seek help.

2.      Suicide Prevention vs. Crisis Response: Prevention efforts, like building healthy relationships, financial security, and community connections, are crucial in reducing risk before a crisis occurs. Responding to a crisis involves recognizing more direct signs, such as giving away possessions or expressing hopelessness.

3.      Community and Language in Prevention: The conversation highlights how individuals and communities can play a role in suicide prevention, from providing emotional support to using sensitive language that avoids stigmatizing those at risk.