What's Behind The Rise In Suicides Among Black Youth?

This week will mark the one-year anniversary of George Floyd's murder by the recently convicted former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin. And, Floyd’s death was followed by several high-profile acts of racism linked to trauma and measurable PTSD in communities of color. What role has the seemingly never-ending racial trauma played in the uptick of suicidal deaths among young African Americans? And shockingly, why are some mental health specialists surprised the rate of suicides isn’t higher?

Guests:

Dahyana Schlosser — Boston-based child and family therapist

Dr. Rheeda Walker — professor at the University of Houston Department of Psychology, author of “The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health”

Joseph Feaster Jr. — suicide loss survivor, council member at Samaritans, executive committee member at the National Association of Mental Health Boston

If you or a loved one is considering suicide, please call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.