The Simple Question That Can Save A Life

Brain Hijack

Are doctors or mental health professionals the only people allowed to ask someone if they are suicidal? On today’s episode, Brooke and Adam speak to Dr. Kelly Posner about how we often expect doctors and other healthcare professionals to ask the “difficult” questions when it comes to someone’s health, particularly around suicidal ideation. Dr. Posner explains how many people think if you, a non-healthcare professional, ask a friend or family member if they are having suicidal thoughts it will cause them to become suicidal; however, the reality is actually the opposite! Over 90% of suicidal incidents with some sort of intervention (such as asking if someone is suicidal) will never go on to try again. That one question could make all the difference.
Her full bio is here: https://cssrs.columbia.edu/about-the-project/the-director/