07/02/2026
Today I had the privilege of attending a powerful training on Art Therapy with young people who self-harm and/or express suicidal ideation offered by BAAT, led by Sarah Haywood and Jacqui McKoy-Lewens.
Although this is a field, I am already familiar with, thanks to the guidance of exceptional mentors such as Emily Rivet and Mélanie Vigier de Latour Bérenger, it was deeply valuable to return to role-play, revisit our clinical processes, and openly reflect on safeguarding with fellow art therapists.
One key takeaway stayed with me:
Never be afraid to ask the question: directly, clearly, and compassionately.
Using the word su***de does not put the idea into a young person’s mind.
It communicates something essential: “You are allowed to talk about this here.”
Phrases such as:
• “Sometimes when people feel the way you do, they think about su***de. Is that something you’re thinking about?”
• “It sounds like life feels unbearable right now. Are you thinking about ending your life?”
open the door to honesty, relief, and connection.
When someone is feeling suicidal, being truly listened to (without fear or avoidance) can be profoundly containing and comforting. There is often deep relief in being met by someone willing to hear what feels unsayable.
Simple statements matter:
• “I’m really sorry you’re feeling this way. I want to listen.”
• “Take your time. Can you tell me a bit more about what’s happening for you?”
Feeling connected, heard, and supported by trusted adults and peers reduces su***de risk. Meaningful, attuned relationships matter.
Relationships save lives.
Talking about su***de does not make it more likely to happen.
Silence, stigma, and fear do.
If we want a world where young people can ask for help, we must be willing to hear the hardest truths.
Each of us, as therapists, educators, parents, professionals, and human beings, has a role to play in preventing youth su***de.
Grateful for today’s learning, reflection, and shared responsibility.
Thanks to Helena Lopes for the Picture. Unsplash.
