This episode of Never the Same delves into addressing suicide concerns among loved ones who use substances. Featuring lived experience insights from Jack Stem and his daughter Kim, alongside Dr. Ken Connor (University of Rochester) and Morica Hutchinson (University of Connecticut), the conversation combines lived experiences and professional insights.

The episode coincides with the release of a no-cost online training resource developed by SafeSide Prevention in collaboration with the UR Medicine Recovery Center of Excellence on SUD Prevention to support those standing together with someone grappling with substance use and suicide challenges. Explore the resource here.

Key topics include:

How to start difficult conversations about suicide and substance use
Ways to ask about suicide directly and sensitively
How to respond effectively when someone shares their concerns.

In this episode, the participants share personal experiences and professional insights, creating a balanced discussion that addresses both the practical and emotional aspects of supporting someone at risk of suicide who also struggles with substance use.

Guests:

• Jack Stem: A seasoned counselor and recovery advocate with decades of experience navigating addiction and peer support.
• Kim Stem: A passionate speaker on addiction and mental health, sharing her lived experiences to foster understanding and hope.
• Dr. Kenneth Conner: Professor in Emergency Medicine and Psychiatry at the University of Rochester, specializing in suicide prevention and substance use research.
• Morica Hutchison: the Faculty in Public Health Sciences at the University of Connecticut, focusing on family and community-based approaches to substance use and mental health.

Host:

Dr. Tony Pisani: Dr. Tony Pisani is a professor, clinician, and founder of SafeSide Prevention, leading its mission to build safer, more connected military, health, education, and workplace communities.

Referenced Resources (Timestamped):

Online Family and Friend Training Module (01:30): Developed with the University of Rochester Recovery Center of Excellence. Access here.
Three Steps to Ask About Suicide (10:18): A guide for friends and family.
988 Crisis Line (01:03:00): National resource for immediate support. Learn more here.
Hope Kit (01:03:30): Mentioned as a resource for stabilization. Learn more here.

Resources to contact if you need crisis help

SafeSide does not provide crisis intervention. These crisis resources are there for you:

United States 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Australia LifeLine Australia
Canada Crisis Services Canada
New Zealand LifeLine

Here with You: Supporting People with Substance Use and Suicide Concerns