Short Wave Why Suicide Prevention is 'Everyone's Business'
Dec 23, 2025
Rhitu Chatterjee, an NPR health correspondent focused on mental health, dives into the transformative 'Hold The Hope' project, which aids suicide prevention training. He discusses the emotional intricacies of caregivers supporting individuals in crisis and how a compelling song has opened conversations around mental health. They explore practical strategies for response and the importance of validating feelings. Rhitu emphasizes reframing suicidality as a sign of strength and the positive impact of this initiative on training by the UK's NHS.
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Caregiver Turns Trauma Into Song
- Jo Lambert cared for loved ones in suicidal crisis for eight years and wrote a poem called "Hold The Hope."
- She turned the poem into a film and later a song to share what caregivers need to support someone in crisis.
Host's Personal Connection
- Emily Kwong shared that her mother survived a suicide attempt and that she felt isolated and unsure how to help at 21.
- She wished for a song like "Hold The Hope" to guide her then.
Put The Person First
- Detach from your fear of the outcome and center the person in crisis to give effective support.
- Make the situation about what they need right now instead of your panic or grief.