What Not To Say or Do When Someone Is Struggling With Suicide

In 2018, after Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain died by suicide, Deanna Zandt felt compelled to address the words of encouragement others were offering those in the midst of a mental struggle. That piece is titled “Why ‘you are loved’ & ‘please reach out’ are crappy things to post after someone has died by suicide” and it explores the way in which our words and actions can help or hurt someone struggling. In today’s episode, we’re honored to be joined by Deanna to explore her perspective and thoughts on how we can genuinely support and show up for someone who’s thinking about suicide.

Deanna Zandt (she/her) is a writer, artist, and award-winning technologist living in Brooklyn, NY. She spent 15 years working at the forefront of social justice, technology and media; after she burned out for the third time, she realized that maybe that work wasn’t suiting her particularly well. Currently, she spends her time: supporting other very impressive people and organizations behind-the-scenes with their technology; writing & drawing when she feels like it; walking and playing with her two dogs and their friends; connecting with humans near and far; and figuring out how to exist with meaning, fulfillment, and as many giggles as possible.

This episode is a part of our You Are Not a Burden campaign in honor of September being Suicide Prevention Month. You can learn more about the campaign by going to youarenotaburden.com.