How To Help Someone Who's Struggling When You Have No Idea How w/ 988 Co-Creator Kristen Christy

Want to help someone struggling, but don't know what to say? You don't need the perfect words or a solution.

Kristen Christy is co-creator of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which has now answered more than 17 million calls and texts. In this episode, you'll learn how 988 supports both people in crisis and the people who love them, how to start uncomfortable conversations with someone you think needs help, and the small daily habit that makes a real difference.

Topics discussed:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:55) Early lessons in resilience

(03:49) The events that led to 988

(07:46) How 988 supports different communities

(10:17) How to ask someone directly about suicide

(13:43) How to be a good listener to someone in crisis

(16:18) Why community matters and how to find yours

(19:38) Suicide loss survivors: reframing shame and guilt

(24:22) Small ways to lift others up