Dr Rachel Gibbons (Video); Facing the Unthinkable: Dr. Gibbons on Suicide and Mental Health

Locked up Living Podcast: Episode with Dr. Rachel Gibbons

Hosts: Dr. Naomi Murphy and David Jones

Guest: Dr. Rachel Gibbons, Consultant Psychiatrist, Psychoanalyst, and Group Analyst

Episode Summary: In this episode, Dr. Rachel Gibbons shares her profound experiences and insights on the topic of suicide, its impact on the bereaved, and patient safety. Dr. Gibbons discusses her journey, which began with the traumatic loss of four patients to suicide early in her career, and how these events shaped her professional path and personal growth. The conversation delves into the complexities of dealing with suicide in mental health services, the importance of reflective spaces, and the need for better preparation and support for clinicians.

Key Points:

• Dr. Gibbons' early career experiences with patient suicides and their profound impact on her.
• The concept of post-traumatic growth and how trauma can fuel creative change.
• The importance of addressing clinician vulnerability and the stigma surrounding it.
• The role of reflective spaces and preparation in managing the aftermath of patient suicides.
• The need for systemic changes in mental health services to better support staff and patients.

Quotes:

• "Trauma can be destructive, or it can fuel creative change."
• "We can't keep people safe from the contents of their own mind."
• "Reflective spaces are essential to prevent acting out and causing more harm."

Resources Mentioned:

• Dr. Rachel Gibbons' website: [http://drrachaelgibbons.co.uk](http://drrachaelgibbons.co.uk)
• Royal College of Psychiatrists' Wellbeing Hub

Call to Action: If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please seek help from a mental health professional or contact a crisis hotline in your area.