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New Books in Psychology

Rachel Zimmerman, "Us, After: A Memoir of Love and Suicide" (SFWP, 2024)

Nov 9, 2024
In this engaging conversation, Rachel Zimmerman, an author and journalist, shares her profound journey following the suicide of her husband, an MIT professor. She navigates the challenges of single parenthood while illuminating the complexities of grief and resilience. Rachel discusses her obsessive quest for understanding, interviewing experts to address the stigma surrounding mental health. The memoir, 'Us, After,' touches on love, loss, and the healing power of community support, revealing how even in the darkest moments, hope and meaning can emerge.
53:34

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Rachel Zimmerman's memoir emphasizes the need to destigmatize mental health discussions, highlighting suicide as a complex issue rather than a selfish act.
  • The importance of community support during grief is central to Zimmerman's narrative, showcasing how shared vulnerability can foster deeper connections.

Deep dives

The Journey to Journalism

Rachel Zimmerman's path into journalism began in her Brooklyn upbringing, where early influences shaped her love for storytelling. Initially focused on fiction and poetry, she transitioned to journalism after an unexpected opportunity to write book reviews for a newspaper in San Francisco. This newfound passion led her to reporting on healthcare issues, particularly the high cost of AIDS drugs, which ignited her commitment to health journalism. Over two decades, she honed her skills across various prestigious outlets, but a personal tragedy would soon transform her perspective as a journalist.

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