Podcast Summary: "What I’ve Learned Stopping Suicides on the Golden Gate Bridge"
Podcast Information:
- Title: What It Was Like
- Host: Julian Morgans
- Guest: Kevin Briggs, Former California Highway Patrol Officer
- Release Date: July 3, 2025
Introduction
In this poignant episode of "What It Was Like," host Julian Morgans delves into the harrowing yet impactful work of Kevin Briggs, a former California Highway Patrol officer who dedicated 23 years to preventing suicides on the Golden Gate Bridge. This episode offers an intimate portrait of the emotional toll, strategies, and personal growth involved in such a critical role.
Background of Kevin Briggs
Kevin Briggs grew up in Novato, California, and embarked on a career with the California Highway Patrol at the age of 27. Initially lacking specialized training in suicide prevention, Briggs found himself at the epicenter of a growing crisis on the Golden Gate Bridge—a site notorious for its high number of suicide attempts.
[06:58] Kevin Briggs: "I grew up in Novato, California... Everything was good."
The Challenge of Preventing Suicides
Upon his assignment to the Golden Gate Bridge, Briggs quickly realized the magnitude of the issue: the bridge was America's ground zero for suicides, with over a hundred years of tragic attempts. The lack of initial training left him navigating these life-and-death situations through trial and error.
[09:33] Julian Morgans: "Were you surprised to discover that it was part of the job description?"
[09:43] Kevin Briggs: "It was because there were quite a few people who come to the bridge contemplating suicide. It was the number one spot in the United States for loss of life to suicide."
First Encounters and Emotional Toll
Briggs recounts his first encounter with a woman contemplating suicide. Untrained and fearful, he approached her, hoping to offer a glimmer of hope. Despite his efforts, she chose to step back over the rail, a moment that profoundly affected him.
[12:03] Kevin Briggs: "I wanted her to come back. You'll have an opportunity for things to get better. If you decide to jump today, there goes those opportunities."
This experience underscored the urgent need for proper training and emotional support for officers handling such sensitive situations.
Developing Effective Strategies
Over time, Briggs refined his approach to suicide intervention, emphasizing the power of listening and building rapport. He adopted techniques such as minimal encouragers and focused on the individual's reasons to live, often identifying personal "hooks" like family or future aspirations.
[26:00] Kevin Briggs: "It's about being there for those folks. I go by 80% of the time I'm going to be listening and then I'll be speaking 20% of the time."
Notable Cases
One of the most impactful stories Briggs shares is that of Kevin Berthea, a 19-year-old who ultimately survived his suicide attempt. Through persistent engagement and focusing on Kevin's desire to see his child’s first birthday, Briggs was able to guide him back to safety.
[42:38] Julian Morgans: "Can you tell me about Kevin Berthea?"
[47:58] Kevin Briggs: "I did put my heart and soul into this, but it was another day at work... he wanted to see his kid again."
This interaction not only saved a life but also led to a lasting friendship and collaborative efforts in suicide prevention advocacy.
Impact and Legacy
Briggs estimates that he saved approximately four to six lives each month over a decade, highlighting the profound impact one dedicated individual can have. His efforts also led to improved training within the Highway Patrol, ensuring that future officers are better equipped to handle such crises.
[57:38] Kevin Briggs: "I averaged four to six a month, and I did that for around 10 years."
Advice for Supporting Others
Briggs offers practical advice for listeners on how to approach and support someone who may be contemplating suicide. Key strategies include:
- Non-Judgmental Listening: Prioritize listening over offering solutions.
- Creating a Safe Environment: Choose private, comfortable settings for conversations.
- Normalizing the Conversation: Acknowledge the individual's struggles without minimizing their feelings.
- Establishing Connection: Use observations to gently initiate conversations about their well-being.
[30:47] Kevin Briggs: "Ask them, 'Can we meet somewhere and talk for a little bit?'... Normalize what they're going through."
Personal Reflections and Growth
Briggs opens up about his own struggles, including childhood trauma and battles with cancer. These experiences have fueled his empathy and commitment to helping others, emphasizing that understanding and personal connection are vital in suicide prevention.
[63:27] Kevin Briggs: "Having a reason and purpose, but then being able to recognize someone that isn't doing so well and having the courage to have that conversation."
Conclusion
Kevin Briggs’s story is a testament to the power of empathy, perseverance, and effective communication in saving lives. His transition from a state patrol officer to a public speaker and advocate underscores the importance of sharing personal experiences to foster broader community support and understanding.
[67:39] Kevin Briggs: "If we don't talk about that, we're gonna lose more people. So let's talk about it."
Julian Morgans wraps up the episode by reinforcing the critical message: If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out for help. Lifeline Australia and the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in the US are available resources for those in need.
Notable Quotes:
- Kevin Briggs [12:03]: "I want you to come back. You'll have an opportunity for things to get better."
- Julian Morgans [09:43]: "It was the number one spot in the United States for loss of life to suicide."
- Kevin Briggs [26:00]: "I'm going to be listening and then I'll be speaking 20% of the time."
- Kevin Briggs [30:47]: "Ask them, 'Can we meet somewhere and talk for a little bit?'... Normalize what they're going through."
- Kevin Briggs [63:27]: "Having a reason and purpose, but then being able to recognize someone that isn't doing so well and having the courage to have that conversation."
- Kevin Briggs [67:39]: "If we don't talk about that, we're gonna lose more people. So let's talk about it."
Resources Mentioned:
- Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
- US Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988
- Kevin Briggs on LinkedIn: [Link in Show Notes]
Production Credits:
- Produced by: Rachel Tuffrey
- Mixed by: Jimmy Saunders
- Cover Art: Rich Akers
- Intern: Ellie Dickey
- Production Company: Superreal
This episode serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of empathy, active listening, and proactive engagement in preventing suicides. Kevin Briggs’s experiences provide valuable insights and actionable advice for anyone looking to support a loved one in crisis.