Mental Health, Suicide, and Abuse with Jessica Testa, LAC

Suicide. It’s a topic that many people are hesitant to discuss. They may worry that broaching the subject might give someone the idea to end their life or they may choose to stay silent because they simply don’t know how to talk about it. But suicide is a real risk, particularly for those struggling with domestic violence.

Jessica Testa, LAC,  a counselor at JBWS, joins this episode of Unsilenced: Real Conversations About Abuse to explore the relationship between mental health issues and abuse, how to support someone struggling with suicidal thoughts, and the stigma around mental health issues.

Contents of the Podcast:

(0:00) Introduction

(01:33) Abuse and Mental Health Issues

(05:13) Power and Control Wheel

(06:56) Domestic Violence Is a Risk factor for Suicide

(10:31) Is It Okay To Talk About Suicide?

(14:28) Shame and Mental Health Issues

(17:39) Expressing Concern for a Suicidal Person

(21:46) Ask If They're Considering Suicide

(23:25) Levels of Suicidality

(25:56) Protective Factors

(30:20) Weaponizing Suicide in Abuse

(37:21) About JBWS & Services

*Please note, talking about suicide is not going to put a thought in someone’s head that isn’t already there. If you are having suicidal thoughts, please call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. This episode discusses suicidal thoughts, dying my suicide, and other mental health issues, please consider if you're in a place to hear this content before listening.

Find the Power and Control Wheel.

About JBWS and Services:

Are you in an unhealthy relationship and living or working in Morris County, New Jersey? JBWS can help call our 24-Hour Helpline at 1.877.782.2873 or visit⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jbws.org/services⁠⁠⁠.⁠ ⁠⁠Do you recognize controlling or abusive behaviors in yourself? JBWS can also help. Please call 973.539.7801 or visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jbws.org/jcnv⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

If you don't live or work in Morris County, NJ please visit ⁠⁠https://www.thehotline.org⁠/⁠ or call 800.799.SAFE (7233) Intro and outro music donated by Billy Morris