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Published: March 31, 2023, 5 a.m.

If this post triggers you in any way,\xa0here are the International Suicide Prevention Hot Lines.

Sometimes meeting someone is meant to be. I felt that way about my best friend. I felt that way about my husband.\xa0And I felt that way when I first exchanged emails with Dr. John Sommers-Flannagan.

He\u2019s the real thing. A great guy. Easy-going. Smart. Supportive. Humble. And his book, Suicide Assessment and Treatment Planning: A Strength-Based Approach is a must read for mental health clinicians. He's a professor of psychology at the University of Montana and the author of many other books. I don\u2019t say "must read" that often. Even rarely. But it\u2019s a must read. And not just for clinicians. It could be meaningful for anyone who has a loved one who struggles with suicidal feelings or thoughts - and how to approach them compassionately. As I said last week, you might be that one person who someone risks talking to.

Last week's episode focused on the necessity and importance and publicly recognizing the fact that many people have suicidal thoughts. Whether they\u2019re diagnosed with a mental illness or not, many people go through times when there\u2019s no light at the end of the tunnel. Or they can\u2019t see one in that moment \u2013 or that day \u2013 or that week. Those people need connection \u2013 they need support \u2013 they need acceptance. If they're in true crisis, then stronger measures may be needed - and I'd highly recommend calling in professionals at that point. But too many people don't reveal darker thoughts for fear of "what might happen" - even to mental health clinicians.

So you\u2019re about to hear information that I know you\u2019re going to find inspirational, helpful, educational, and vital.

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You can hear more about this and many other topics by listening to my podcast,\xa0SelfWork with Dr. Margaret Rutherford.\xa0Subscribe\xa0to my website and receive my weekly newsletter including a blog post and podcast! If you\u2019d like to join my FaceBook closed group, then click here and answer the membership questions! Welcome!

My book entitled Perfectly Hidden Depression\xa0has been published and you can order here! Its message is specifically for those with a struggle with strong perfectionism which acts to mask underlying emotional pain. But the many self-help techniques described can be used by everyone who chooses to begin to address emotions long hidden away that are clouding and sabotaging your current life. And it's available in paperback, eBook or as an audiobook!

And there's another way to send me a message! You can record by clicking below and ask your question or make a comment. You\u2019ll have 90 seconds to do so and that time goes quickly. By recording, you\u2019re giving SelfWork (and me) permission to use your voice on the podcast. I\u2019ll look forward to hearing from you!

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