Dr Kiran Sidhu, Clinical Psychologist at Platfform Wellbeing, talked about suicide and self-harm. Throughout the webinar, Kiran explored the complexities surrounding these issues, including prevalence rates and the underlying reasons why individuals may engage in self-harm or have suicidal thoughts.
Drawing on her expertise, Kiran highlighted:
- What is the underlying need not being addressed behind the distress?
- The importance of relationships and human connection in supporting individuals struggling
- Starting conversations about thoughts and plans related to self-harm and suicide
- Fundamental basics of responding to those in need
We also heard from a guest speaker, Tia Smith who has lived experience of self-harm and suicide ideation. With the support of Kiran and others, she has pursued a career in working with children with additional needs. She shared her lived experiences, talking about what was helpful and what wasn’t.
Key takeaways:
Tia discussed what was helpful from her own experience
“What I found helpful was regular phone calls especially during covid, I felt less alone and the network of people being there, being non-judgemental and not giving up on me, gave me hope”
Kiran discussed the importance of safe, secure relationships and connections
“It’s about the power of relationships and being with someone when they are feeling really distressed. Its not about a response, its about the feeling that person gets from you, when you really understand how they are feeling. Sometimes we can feel compelled to fix things or problem solve which isn’t what they need or want in that moment. What they really need and want is for you to understand their emotions”
“Meet people where they are at. Acknowledge the difficulties they are facing and be curious about what’s happening for that person. Being able to sit and talk with someone is the essence of a relationship”