Neurodiversity and Suicide -- A Mother's Search for Answers: Interview with Dr. Jessica Revill : Episode 123

Each year, the sobering statistics remind us of the heartbreaking reality: autistic individuals are six times more likely to die by suicide than their non-autistic counterparts.In our latest episode, we delve into a conversation with the author of "Find Him Among the Living," a poignant memoir by Dr. Jessica Revill. Through her deeply personal account of her son Gregory Chew's life and tragic loss to suicide, Dr. Revill sheds light on the urgent need to address the disproportionate number of suicides within the autistic community.Autism, a developmental condition impacting communication and sensory processing, often intersects with mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. Shockingly, 90% of autistic individuals who die by suicide have a diagnosed mental health disorder, compared to 40% in the non-autistic population.Central to understanding the struggles faced by autistic individuals is Dr. Thomas Joiner’s concept of 'thwarted belonging' and the profound impact of social isolation. The relentless effort to camouflage or mask natural behaviors in a world that often fails to accept them creates an overwhelming sense of alienation and exhaustion.To grasp the daily challenges faced by autistic individuals, consider being thrust into a world where communication is radically different. Imagine the laborious task of deciphering emotional cues akin to a foreign language, leading to burnout and a desire to withdraw from society. This is the reality for many autistic individuals.Despite these daunting obstacles, Dr. Revill advocates for actionable solutions. From specialized suicide prevention programs tailored to the autistic community to enhanced support during the transition from high school to adulthood, there's an urgent need for systemic change. Additionally, greater awareness of ableist prejudice and improved training for medical professionals are crucial steps toward fostering inclusivity and understanding.Join us as we navigate these critical issues, striving to create a world where every individual, regardless of neurodiversity, feels seen, supported, and valued. Tune in to my conversation with Dr. Revill and visit her website for further insights and resources on suicide prevention and autism advocacy.About Dr. Jessica Revill







Dr. Jessica Revill, an Australian psychologist, embarked on a unique professional journey that began in journalism and culminated in the field of psychology. As a mature age student, she pursued her passion, earning a master's degree from California State University, Los Angeles, and later a PhD in educational psychology from UCLA.Driven by a deep commitment to mental health advocacy, Dr. Revill hosts a video podcast titled "Prisoner of the Mind with Dr. Jessica Revill," where she explores various aspects of mental well-being. Following the tragic loss of her son Gregory, she redirected her clinical focus towards suicide prevention, a cause that has become deeply personal to her.Residing in western Sydney, Dr. Revill continues her dedicated work in the field of psychology, striving to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals struggling with mental health challenges. To learn more about Dr. Jessica Revill or to connect with her, please visit her website at www.prisonerofthemind.com.au.

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