How Do We Prevent Suicide in Our Families? Emma Benoit Interview (Part 1)
Did you know that 20 young people take their own lives every single day in the United States?
I recently sat down on CHRISTIAN PARENT/CRAZY WORLD with one such teen for a two-part series on teen suicide. Emma Benoit had a picture-perfect life. She was a vibrant, beautiful 16-year-old varsity cheerleader whose secret battle with anxiety led her to take a gun, point it at her chest, and pull the trigger.
And here’s what is most shocking—her parents had no idea that she was suicidal, or even suffering.
Only 1% of people with self-inflicted gunshot wounds survive. Emma is in that 1%. She is an absolute miracle and an inspiration.
Click on the image below see a clip of Emma on a recent episode of Dr. Phil.
Did you know:
- A 2019 study revealed that 8.9% of youth in grades 9-12 reported that they had made at least one suicide attempt in the past twelve months.
- There has been a 33% increase in suicides since 1999.
- Suicide is now the 2nd leading cause of death in young people.
I know that teen suicide isn’t a comfortable thing to talk about, but it is necessary.
Joining us for this vital conversation is Jennifer Ellers, a Christian counselor, crisis responder, and trainer. Jennifer has authored a course on youth suicide and is an instructor of the American Association of Christian Counselor’s Hope-Focused 3-R Suicide Program.
In this episode of CHRISTIAN PARENT/CRAZY WORLD, Jennifer shares the signs we should look for in younger children (under the age of twelve) as Emma share’s her journey leading up to the day that she attempted to end her life.
Next week’s episode (part two) will focus on the spiritual, mental, and physical aspects of suicide, the signs we should look for in older children, specific steps we can take to prevent suicide, and Emma’s recovery.
Don’t miss this discussion, Moms and Dads… it just might save a life.
To listen to this episode on Life Audio, click on the image below:
Or you can listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Pocket Casts.
Resources and Cites Mentioned:
Suicide prevention hotline: call or text 988. (This 3-digit code, launched in July of 2022, will connect you to the national suicide hotline.)
Emma Benoit’s story: “My Ascension” the documentary.
American Association of Christian Counselors
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Study
Kevin Hine’s website
