The "S" Word: A Direct Conversation About Struggle, Support, Suicide, and Safety

Parent Coaches Unleashed

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TRIGGER WARNING FOR SUICIDE AND SUICIDE IDEATION

Summary
In this heartfelt episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, Carrie Wiesenfeld and Jessica Anger tackle the deeply sensitive topic of suicide and suicidal ideation—an issue that affects far too many families. Drawing inspiration from Kristina Kuzmič’s powerful memoir I Can Fix This and Other Lies I Told Myself While Parenting My Struggling Child, they explore what it really means to show up for a loved one in crisis.

Carrie and Jessica emphasize the life-saving importance of listening without judgment, validating feelings, and knowing when to seek professional help. They discuss how friends and family can provide steady support, the courage it takes to involve emergency services when necessary, and the often-overlooked impact on siblings and other relatives. Throughout the conversation, they remind parents and caregivers that being present, offering kindness, and educating yourself about mental-health resources can make an immeasurable difference.

Key Takeaways

• Listening to a child who expresses suicidal thoughts is crucial.
• Validation matters more than quick solutions.
• Professional help is essential for both the individual and their support network.
• Support groups and community resources bring understanding and hope.
• Check in on siblings and other family members affected by a loved one’s struggles.
• Seeking emergency help, though difficult, can be an act of profound love.
• Trust is vital when someone opens up about their pain.
• Simply showing up—being present—can be life-changing.
• Educating yourself about mental-health resources strengthens your ability to help.
• Small acts of encouragement and kindness can have a lasting impact.

This episode offers a compassionate roadmap for parents, caregivers, and friends who want to support someone grappling with suicidal thoughts, while reminding listeners that no one has to face this journey alone.

Suicide Hotline 988

Some laws that enable families to get help for their loved ones. Please check with your state to see what is available in your area.

Florida | Baker Act (Florida Mental Health Act) | Involuntary examination / detention for up to 72 hours if a person is a danger to self or others or is unable to care for themselves due to mental illness.
California | “5150 hold” / Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) Act | 72-hour involuntary psychiatric hold for danger to self or others or grave disability. There are also longer holds or civil commitment under further statutes.
New York | Kendra’s Law (Assisted Outpatient Treatment / AOT) | Court-ordered outpatient treatment for individuals meeting certain criteria (history of hospitalizations, danger to self/others, etc). Helps ensure follow-through in the community rather than only inpatient.
California | Laura’s Law | Similar to Kendra’s Law; allows for court-ordered outpatient treatment, under certain criteria, in counties that opt in.
Kentucky | Casey’s Law (Matthew Casey Wethington Act) | Allows family petition / civil court intervention for substance abuse disorder treatment. Though more focused on addiction than general mental illness.

🔗 Connect with Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld:
Instagram | [email protected]
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