Building Your Wall of Resistance: A Reflection for Suicide Prevention Month

By Kelly Holder, PhD
Chief Well-Being Officer

Several years ago, I decided to get trained in QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), a suicide prevention program. The goal of the program is to train individuals to recognize crisis signs and warning signals that someone may be contemplating suicide.

One of my favorite concepts from the training is "the wall of resistance." This metaphorical wall represents all the reasons a person has for staying alive, even if they're not immediately apparent to an individual in crisis. These elements contribute positively to our well-being.

Here are some examples:

• Family relationships: Children, parents, siblings, or other close family members
• Friendships: Close friends or supportive social networks
• Pets: The responsibility and love for pets can be a powerful motivator
• Future goals or plans: Career aspirations, travel plans, or personal achievements
• Religious or spiritual beliefs: Faith that provides hope
• Hope for improvement: Belief that their situation might get better
• Sense of purpose: Feeling needed by others or having important responsibilities
• Positive memories: Recollections of good times that provide comfort
• Creative outlets: Art, music, writing, or other forms of self-expression
• Professional help: Ongoing therapy or medication that's starting to help

September is Suicide Awareness Month. While there is much to know about facts and figures and how we can reduce stigma around this crucial topic, this month I want you to consider what's in your own "wall of resistance." Take an honest assessment. Build in the areas that you believe need more time and attention. Continue in the areas that are working well.

Of course, there is much more to suicide prevention. Take time to learn more by visiting:

• National Alliance for Mental Illness Suicide Prevention Month
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
• Brown University's Consortium for Research Innovation in Suicide Prevention

Need immediate help? The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.

Suicide Prevention Conference

Suicide in Healthcare and Science: From Awareness to Action is a half-day conference to raise awareness about suicide—a major health issue that has a tremendous impact on individuals, families, and the health care and science community. This program is designed to reduce stigma through education, share resources, provide support, and recognize the importance of our ability to be there for each other. 

The conference will take place Wednesday, Sept. 25, 12:45 - 6 p.m. Registration is free for medical students and residents. Register online.  

Out of the Darkness Walk

The Northern Rhode Island chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention will hold this year’s Out of the Darkness Community Walk Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m. The two-mile route begins at the Temple to Music in Roger Williams Park in Providence. Register to join the Brown Healthcare Community team and help raise awareness of and support for those affected by suicide.

Destination Challenge

The new team activity challenge, South American Adventure, begins Sept. 2. You and your team will compete with teams from across the University for the most steps in a month-long virtual trek across the continent. Learn more and register your team today!

Wellness Programs

Check out and sign up for upcoming on-site and virtual programs, and get rewards.