Colleague Suicide

Far too often, we hear of a fellow helping professional who has ended his/her life; some of us have experienced it first-hand, with a colleague choosing suicide. What is apparent is that it is a shocking, appalling, and confusing occurrence which, to date, has no identified swift, effective protocol with which to respond.

No one knows what to do; no one comprehends the impact, and in the acute phase following the event, it is an immense relief to have an idea of what to expect and how to proceed. This speaker, founder of the organization Healers in Balance©, in her focus to address the needs of helping professionals, has gathered information, feedback, insight, reactions and suggestions from those who have been through the experience, both fellow Healers and members of Administration. She will share these findings, including identified commonalities, understanding effects on self/clinic, and preventative measures as well as actions and responses found to be most helpful and effective. Whether you are a helping professional, member of Administration, or both, and whether you have experienced this occurrence or hope you never do, this workshop will increase your understanding of the impact, possible causes, factors involved, validate your own experience, and/or prepare you if this unfortunate event ever befalls your agency.