Today we’re talking with licensed psychologist, Dr. Doreen Marshall, Vice President of Mission Engagement at The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Dr. Marshall has been engaged in suicide prevention and postvention work for over 20 years. In this episode, we cover what the latest data tells us about suicide – including which demographics it’s affecting the most (and why), the surprising impact of COVID-19, the outlook for survivors of suicide attempts, and much more.

We lose 45,000 people to suicide annually, while 1.2 to 1.5 million more attempt it. Dr. Marshall expands upon intrusive thoughts vs. suicidal ideations – an important distinction in suicide prevention. She elaborates on the many contributing factors (including substance use, mental health concerns, isolation, access to means, economic/financial stressors, and relational discord) that come together in peak moments of distress, and how people can navigate these pivotal moments to decrease the risk of death by suicide. 

Dr. Marshall holds a doctorate in Counseling Psychology and a master’s degree in Professional Counseling, with clinical, educational, and professional experience. She’s authored publications and produced several educational films. Her role at AFSP is fostering collaborations with groups and organizations that are looking to strengthen their suicide prevention and postvention efforts – like the Veterans Administration, DARE, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the National Parent Teacher Association, and many more. With her professional expertise, plus personal experience in losing a loved one to suicide, she has a lot of insight to share with us.

If you or someone you know needs help, you can reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or text TALK to 741741 to text with a trained crisis counselor for free, 24/7.