Jennifer Cisney Ellers, M.A.
Jennifer Cisney Ellers reviews Dr. Thomas Joiner’s model of understanding how and why suicide occurs. The desire to die because of a perceived burdensomeness and a low level of belonging
or social connectedness and the ability to take one’s own life lead a person to believe suicide is the best solution. Suicidal people tend to believe they are a burden to their loved ones. Their sense of value and self-worth has been undermined. Satan is the author of this ultimate lie, but caregivers can intervene by reassuring people of their value, helping them feel productive, and relaying the message that care and concern are not a burden. Suicidal people also have a
thwarted connectedness—a sense they do not belong. This feeling of isolation can be helped by treating depression, fostering and building social connection, enhancing family relationships, building social and relational skills, and dialoguing about struggles. People have a strong desire for self-preservation, but there are factors that contribute to someone acquiring the ability to enact self-injury. It is important for caregivers to provide preventative support, education and
training in these situations.