Breaking the Silence: Dr. Lieberman on Suicide Prevention
Suicide used to be, and in the US remains, largely a complication of psychiatric illness that is not being treated, and we need to change that.
Why is suicide still such a pressing issue in the US? In this episode of 'Shrink Speak', Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman sits down with Dr. Kelly Posner and Dr. J. John Mann to tackle this difficult question head-on. As Chair of Psychiatry at Columbia University, Dr. Lieberman brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to the conversation, making it clear that suicide is not just a personal tragedy but a public health crisis that demands urgent attention.
The discussion kicks off by examining the tragic suicides of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, which shocked the world and highlighted the pervasive nature of this issue. Dr. Lieberman doesn't shy away from the tough topics, diving into the causes and treatments of suicide, and the often-overlooked role of untreated psychiatric illnesses like depression and anxiety. He stresses that while effective treatments exist, far too many people aren't getting the help they need.
But it's not all grim statistics and clinical talk. The episode also explores how the media can play a pivotal role in suicide prevention. Dr. Lieberman calls for more responsible reporting on suicide, urging media outlets to reduce stigma around mental health and encourage people to seek help. This episode is a must-listen for anyone affected by mental health issues or interested in learning how to make a difference. Dr.
Lieberman's insights offer hope and practical advice for preventing suicide and supporting those who are struggling. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of this critical issue and find out what you can do to help.