UNR Med Chair of Psychiatry talks about asking, listening and reminding others they are not alone in their fight
During National Suicide Prevention Month this September, Takesha Cooper, M.D., shares her thoughts on how you can support others
I frequently engage in conversations about suicide, a topic that touches many aspects of my life and work. As a psychiatrist, I have the privilege of sitting with my patients as they share their painful suicidal thoughts, and I strive to create a space where they feel safe to express their feelings openly and without judgment. As a child and adolescent psychiatrist, I share the concerns of parents who worry deeply about their teens’ overwhelming emotions, self-injury, and feelings of hopelessness. Together, we work on simply validating their child's experiences, even when the instinct as a parent is to try and 'fix' things.
As a mother, I can’t help but think about my own children and their peers, many of whom are grappling with depression and anxiety, especially in the wake of the pandemic. And as a teacher of resident physicians, I guide my learners in recognizing the signs of suicide in their patients and ensuring they have the tools to offer support and safety.
Providing care and support has always been my priority, but I also recognize that mental health is a complex journey, and everyone faces unique struggles. My training, and a deep respect for what my patients have taught me, allow me to navigate difficult conversations about hopelessness, but I believe the most crucial part of my role is simply being present, listening without judgment, and reminding people that they're not alone in their fight.
As we observe Suicide Prevention Month this September, I am reminded of the profound impact that simply asking and listening can have. While it might seem that 'just listening' isn’t enough, it is often the very thing that helps our patients and loved ones feel truly seen and supported.
#988 #TalkÁùºÏ±¦µäIt #Listen #SuicidePrevention
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ÁùºÏ±¦µä the author
Takesha Cooper, M.D., M.S., FAPA, is the chair of the at the University of ÁùºÏ±¦µä, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) and Chief of Behavioral Health at . Dr. Cooper is the clinical lead for the Stacie Mathewson Behavioral Health & Addiction Institute, where intensive treatment is given to struggling patients. This is especially meaningful given that ÁùºÏ±¦µä ranks last in overall mental health. Dr. Cooper’s research on the impact of adverse childhood experiences on mental health outcomes and her commitment to community-based prevention has been pivotal to addressing need in a state that also posts the highest youth suicide rates. At UNR Med, Dr. Cooper and her associates train the next generation of psychiatrists through the Psychiatry Residency program and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship programs.
