In Episode 75 of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS (Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching) sits down with Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC, Suicidologist, CTP, to explore suicide prevention, cultural identity, and rest as resistance. Learn crisis warning signs, immediate next steps, free resources, and empathy‑driven strategies to challenge mental health stigma.

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Content Warning:
This episode discusses suicide, trauma, and mental illness. Please prioritize your well‑being—pause or skip if needed.

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Episode Overview

In this deeply insightful conversation, host Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS (Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching) and Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC, Suicidologist, CTP (Director of Training Initiatives, United Way of Broward County) cover:

• Suicide Prevention — warning signs, the role of a suicidologist, Florida’s Baker Act, etc

• Cultural Identity — reclaiming “Hotep” (Afro‑holistic consciousness), navigating multi‑faith households, raising multi‑ethnic children

• Rest as Resistance — micro‑breaks, breathwork, grounding techniques inspired by The Nap Ministry

• Challenging Stigma — practical scripts, fact‑based compassion in faith and diverse communities

• Actionable Support Steps — how clinicians, caregivers, educators, and friends can intervene effectively

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Key Topics Discussed

• “Hotep” Defined: Afro‑centric philosophy of holistic wellness, ancestral pride, multi‑faith unity.

• Suicidology 101: Training in psychological autopsies; crisis intervention best practices.

• Legal Frameworks: Baker Act (FL) vs. California’s 5150 and other state involuntary holds.

• Mental Health Stigma: Debunking “weakness” myths; brain = organ.

• Rest as Resistance: Scheduling 5–10 min daily for breathwork, sun grounding, or power naps.

• Support Scripts & Tools: “Hey [Name], I’ve noticed you’ve been off—can we talk?”

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Warning Signs Someone May Be in Crisis

• Talking about wanting to die or kill themselves

• Withdrawing from loved ones or favorite activities

• Insomnia or sleeping too much

• Reckless or risk‑taking behaviors

• Expressing hopelessness, worthlessness, or being a burden

• Sudden mood swings or uncharacteristic calmness

• Giving away prized possessions

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What to Do Next

1. Reach Out by Name

   “Hey [Name], I’ve noticed you seem really down. I’m here to listen.”

2. Stay with Them

   • If actively suicidal, remain present and call 988 immediately.

3. Share Credible Resources

   • 988 Lifeline Warning Signs → https://988lifeline.org/en/warning-signs/

   • NAMI: Warning Signs & Symptoms → https://www.nami.org/About‑Mental‑Illness/Warning‑Signs‑and‑Symptoms

4. Encourage Professional Help

   • Offer to locate a therapist or accompany them to crisis services.

5. Follow Up

   “Just checking in—how are you doing since we talked?”

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Resources & Links

• Crisis & Helplines

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline → Call/text 988 | https://988lifeline.org

  • NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) → https://www.nami.org

  • 211 Community Resource Hotline → Dial 211 or https://www.211.org

• United Way of Broward County

  • Main site → https://www.unitedwaybroward.org

  • Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention Commission → https://www.drugfreebroward.org

  • Be Healthy Broward initiative → https://www.drugfreebroward.org/be-healthy-broward

• Self‑Care & Rest

  • The Nap Ministry (Tricia Hersey) → https://thenapministry.com

  • Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto → https://thenapministry.com/book

• Clinician Referrals

  • Anika T. McDonald, LCSW (neurodiversity, LGBTQ+, youth) via Alma → https://www.helloalma.com

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Contact Info

Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC, Suicidologist, CTP

• LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/aisha-mcdonald-lmhc

• Email → lyfevoyage@gmail.com

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Host & Guest Bios

Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, CTP, QS
Founder of Through the Valley Therapy & Transformed Mind Consulting and Coaching. Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, and Qualified Supervisor.

Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC, Suicidologist, CTP, Certified Trauma Professional
Director of Training Initiatives at United Way of Broward County; national speaker, DEI consultant, and trauma expert who has trained thousands in Mental Health First Aid and crisis intervention.

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Practical Takeaways

• Mental Health is Health: Treat your brain like any other organ—get help early.

• Connection Heals: Routine check‑ins can prevent crises.

• Rest Empowers: Guard 5–10 min daily for breathing or grounding exercises.

• Fact‑Based Compassion: Counter stigma with clear information and empathy.

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Call to Action

1. Share this episode with someone who needs it.

2. Tag us on Instagram @theholisticounselorpodcast .

3. Interested in MHFA training or speaking? Connect with Aisha on LinkedIn.

4. You’re Not Alone: Reach out—988, NAMI, 211, or a trusted friend.