Stacie McLauchlan Shares about Son’s Suicide
Trigger warning: The story and video below references youth suicide.
Six years ago, Stacie McLaUchlan lost her fourteen-year-old son to suicide. Since then, she has had much time for reflection, education, and building awareness of youth suicide and prevention.
WATCH AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH STACIE MCLAUCHLAN
Tune in for this edition of “Fireside Chat” with Youth Eastside Services’ CEO, David Downing, as Stacie talks about her experience, what she has learned since the tragedy, and how you can help prevent youth suicide.
NOT YOUR TYPICAL SUICIDAL TEEN
In the 50-minute-long conversation, Stacie and David discuss how today’s suffering youth don’t look like your “typical” suicidal teens.
Stacie shares how, after her son’s death, she spent many years reflecting on Ian’s actions and emotions before the tragic incident, wondering whether there were signs. The truth is, David notes that today’s teens may look like they are succeeding externally, but internally, they are struggling. To an extent, every child is struggling.
ASK THE QUESTION “HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT SUICIDE?”
That is why Stacie finds comfort in sharing her story with others and encourages everyone to have the same difficult conversations, so youth have the space to share how they are feeling and to be heard.
She and David discuss how it’s essential to ask the direct question “Have you thought about suicide?” to youth while acknowledging that it is challenging. They hope to break down the barriers that keep parents from checking in with their children and teens with advice, personal stories, and strategies for leaning in with curiosity
FIGHTING THE STIGMA TOGETHER
To normalize these conversations and to help fight the stigma of mental health and suicide challenges, Stacie has started a nonprofit organization, Live Hard Movement, which encourages these conversations. David and Stacie agree that normalizing mental health should be just as important as physical health.
CONTACT US TODAY
Whether you’re a teen, a caring friend, a parent, or a concerned adult, you can reach out to YES for help – or simply to ask questions about what services might be best for you or a young person you know. We currently accept new clients and offer free in-school and community-based drop-in services. Visit our contact page for more information.
