When a Sister Commits Suicide Part 1 & Part 2

This week we have a two-part episode. In part one we'll meet Sasha, who grew up in an Iranian and Chilean family. Her youngest sister, Suedi, died by suicide, and her family still doesn't talk much about it. The silence makes it harder for Sasha to open up about her own mental health struggles.

In part two, mental health professional Blanca Amaya, who specializes in culturally competent, trauma-informed therapy, helps us talk about suicide, depression, and mental illness with our loved ones. Blanca is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides psychotherapy in English and Spanish. She owns her own practice, Amaya Counseling in Pasadena, California. Visit her website here.

**Trigger Warning** This piece discusses suicide and suicidal ideation, and some people might find it disturbing. Suicide and mental health are difficult topics, so please use your discretion as you listen and take care of yourself. Stop if you want to, get someone to listen with you, or don’t listen at all. 

Part 1

Part 2