Working with Suicidal Patients

"I work as a therapist with highly suicidal individuals. How can I use these teachings whilst respecting their autonomy and working to keep them alive? Rupert says: ‘Suicide won’t help them. It won’t put an end to their sorrow. They think putting an end to the body is putting an end to the mind – they’re in for a shock. They should make the best use of this life because they might not get another opportunity to meet an intelligent therapist like you. The fundamental understanding for you is that despite their deep suffering, their being is free, whole, never violated by experience. If you know this about them, if all your interaction is informed by this understanding, you’ll be modelling to them non-verbally the correct attitude they should take towards themselves. Be empathetic but also firm. Don’t lose yourself in their sorrow or you can’t help them.’"

From event 05 - 12 October, 2025 Seven-Day Retreat at Garrison Institute, 5–12 October 2025

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