Suicide and Domestic Violence

Content advisory: This episode is a discussion about suicide and domestic violence, a topic that some may find troubling. Listeners are encouraged to consider their own needs before proceeding and to practice self-care when listening to this conversation. 

Description: September marks Suicide Awareness Month in the United States, a country where 25% of female domestic violence survivors have attempted suicide and where child abuse survivors are 150% more likely than their peers of dying by suicide later in life. The CDC reported that in 2020, suicide was the 2nd leading cause of death for children ages 10-14, and the 3rd leading cause of death for young adults ages 15-24. Across the country, experiences of domestic violence and child abuse significantly increase suicidality in women and children, and the individuals we serve at Genesis Women's Shelter & Support in Dallas Texas are no exception: upon intake at Genesis, 50% of women clients and 20% of child clients report having suicidal thoughts, and 20% of clients have attempted suicide. Ruth Guerreiro, LCSW-S, Senior Director of Clinical and Non-Residential Services at Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support leads a team of licensed mental health professionals who work directly with women and children experiencing domestic violence. Ms. Guerreiro joins the podcast to present the facts about suicide and domestic violence including non-fatal forms of suicidality, the warning signs and red flags of suicide within abusive relationships, and to offer resources and ways to seek support.