Ditch The Labcoat - Understanding the Unthinkable: Insights from a Suicide Research Pioneer

Understanding the Unthinkable: Insights from a Suicide Research Pioneer

01/01/25 • 51 min

DISCLAMER >>>>>> The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions. >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests. Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University.

Welcome back to Ditch the Lab Coat, the podcast where we dive deep into pressing health issues with a touch of scientific skepticism and a whole lot of heart. Today, we're peeling back the layers on a critical topic: suicide prevention. We're thrilled to have Dr. Mark Sinyor join us, a leading figure in the field, known for his extensive work on this very issue.

In this episode, we explore the complex realities of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, emphasizing the importance of promoting life, hope, and recovery rather than focusing solely on suicide itself. Dr. Sinyor sheds light on the often misunderstood factors that contribute to personal crises, from unemployment to relationship issues, and the vital role of interventions and coping strategies.

We'll also discuss groundbreaking initiatives like the implementation of suicide barriers in Toronto, which significantly reduced suicide rates, and touch on the power of media influence both for better and worse. From historical stigmas to current crises response strategies, you'll learn about the transformative potential of open conversations and humane interventions.

Tune in as Dr. Bonta and Dr. Sinyor tackle the urgent need for population-wide interventions and more accessible mental health care, aiming to create lives worth living and a society where everyone feels they belong. Whether you're a healthcare professional, someone struggling, or simply interested in this critical topic, this episode promises profound insights and actionable takeaways.

Don't miss out on this compelling conversation—let's ditch the lab coat and get to the heart of what really matters.

04:16 - General internist fascinated by patients' life stories.

07:21 - Addressing suicide openly reduces stigma, prevents contagion.

12:18 - Media, modeling influence suicide numbers significantly.

13:59 - Crisis line callers hear caring, supportive messages.

18:27 - Many regret suicide attempts; intervention often helps.

20:39 - Explore crisis options with Stanley and Brown.

26:00 - Major social issues often shift suicide rates.

28:48 - Cash transfers reduce suicide rates among low-income Brazilians.

31:41 - Means restriction: most evidence-based suicide prevention strategy.

34:58 - Thinking about mortality, dislike of cold weather.

38:55 - Understanding context provides relief and effective intervention.

40:43 - Deciding patient discharge involves risk of readmission.

44:21 - Effort is made to manage patients' risks.

48:00 - Openly talk about suicide; reduce stigma.

50:46 - Visit www.ditchthelabcoat.com for information.

Don't miss out on this compelling conversation—let's ditch the lab coat and get to the heart of what really matters.

04:16 - General internist fascinated by patients' life stories.

07:21 - Addressing suicide openly reduces stigma, prevents contagion.

12:18 - Media, modeling influence suicide numbers significantly.

13:59 - Crisis line callers hear caring, supportive messages.

18:27 - Many regret suicide attempts; intervention often helps.

20:39 - Explore crisis options with Stanley and Brown.

26:00 - Major social issues often shift suicide rates.

28:48 - Cash transfers reduce suicide rates among low-income Brazilians.

31:41 - Means restriction: most evidence-based suicide prevention strategy.

34:58 - Thinking about mortality, dislike of cold weather.

38:55 - Understanding context provides relief and effective intervention.

40:43 - Deciding patient discharge involves risk of readmission.

44:21 - Effort is made to manage patients' risks.

48:00 - Openly talk about suicide; reduce stigma.

50:46 - Visit www.ditchthelabcoat.com for information.

Previous Episode

Situation Critical - The ICU Explained with Dr Brian Cho

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Ditch the Lab Coat," hosted by Dr. Mark Bonta. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Brian Cho, a specialist in general internal medicine and critical care, who brings a wealth of experience from leading critical care outreach programs and mastering echocardiography techniques.

We delve into the intricate decisions surrounding Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders and the complexities of "full code" scenarios in the ICU. Dr. Cho shares his perspective on the emotional and practical challenges healthcare professionals face in these high-stakes environments, highlighting the importance of understanding patient values and navigating the communication with family members.

Listeners will gain an understanding of typical ICU patient trajectories, the emotional impact of resuscitation efforts, and the crucial role of cultural sensitivities in patient care. We also explore the often-misrepresented realities of ICU care in media, the delicate balance of risk and benefit in medical treatments, and the personal experiences of healthcare professionals transitioning between the intense healthcare setting and their personal lives.

Join us for this profound discussion as we shed light on the real-life dynamics of critical care, the vital aspect of communication in patient outcomes, and the enduring human element in medical practice. Don't miss this episode of "Ditch the Lab Coat."

00:00 - Informational, entertaining medical talk show with experts.

03:21 - Dr. Cho balances critical care responsibilities with family life.

09:21 - Four ICU outcomes: rapid death, chronic illness, palliative care, or recovery.

13:06 - Medical scores are often unvalidated and not disclosed to patients.

16:44 - Swelling from fluid buildup is common in ICU patients.

19:28 - Ventilators assist breathing by delivering pressurized air.

21:10 - ICU pneumonia differs due to resistant bacterial pathogens.

25:38 - ICU discussions involve proxies addressing multicultural language and cultural barriers.

27:52 - Building a therapeutic alliance is crucial for effective care.

32:56 - Quickly assess futility, prioritize patient dignity in ICU care.

37:09 - Invite family during CPR to help them understand the process.

39:40 - Collective decision-making when stopping life-saving efforts.

43:38 - Code status decisions reflect complex healthcare experiences.

46:24 - Evaluate life's worth by balancing independence against prolonged debilitation.

48:23 - Focus discussions on values and joys rather than solely on code status.

51:38 - Balancing hospital work with social life presents challenges.

54:42 - Thank you to the team and listeners. Happy holidays!

Next Episode

The Apothecarians Lab with Shawn Gill

Welcome back to "Ditch the Lab Coat," the podcast where we explore the intricate world of healthcare with a scientific and skeptical lens. I'm your host, Dr. Mark Bonta, and in today's episode, we're joined by Dr. Shawn Gill, a clinical pharmacist and host of the "Deprescribed" podcast. Together, we'll navigate the demanding terrains of medical residency, explore personal and professional fulfillment, and discuss groundbreaking ideas for healthcare reform.

We'll kick things off by reflecting on the grueling hours and mental toll of medical training, questioning age-old practices, and suggesting potential reforms to relieve resident burnout. Dr. Gill and I will then pivot to the importance of balance and self-reflection, sharing tips on how healthcare professionals can maintain their well-being while excelling in their careers.

As we dig further, expect insightful discussions on lifestyle medicine, preventive care, and the need to shift from volume-based to outcomes-based healthcare incentives. We’ll also touch on Dr. Gill’s passionate advocacy for deprescribing and empowering patients beyond the pill bottle.

In the latter part of our conversation, we’ll share personal anecdotes and book recommendations, discuss the significance of quality family time, and evaluate the role of physicians in providing a stable, nurturing environment for better mental health outcomes.

Finally, we will address systemic issues within the Canadian healthcare system and explore radical ideas for reinventing healthcare to focus more on prevention and less on bureaucracy. Plus, stay tuned for exciting announcements about our upcoming guests and future plans for the podcast.

Join us for a compelling conversation that promises to be both intellectually stimulating and practically beneficial, right here on "Ditch the Lab Coat."

3:28 - Incentivizing outcomes to revolutionize healthcare approach.

6:47 - Rethinking pharmacy: prioritize patient care over quantity.

11:20 - Physicians are often frustrated by assembly line careers.

13:29 - RFK advocates nutrition, exercise, preventive healthcare focus.

17:26 - Canadian healthcare system is broken; prioritize prevention.

19:46 - Incentivize outcome-based models for healthcare improvement.

24:24 - United by patient care, simplifying healthcare processes.

29:15 - Primary prevention, lifestyle management crucial for longevity.

32:32 - Proactive health management to prevent future diseases.

34:29 - Appreciates insights on resilience and preventive habits.

38:04 - Pre-existing mental health issues complicate veterans' suicides.

41:01 - Creating healthy habits for resilient, joyful adulthood.