THE
PARENT PODCAST
Suicide: Spot the Warning Signs,
Start the Talk
with Patricia Costilla
Key Points
From This Episode:
01:57 - Why It Matters
10:17 - Spot the Signs, Start the Talk
21:18 - Resources, Community, and Next Steps
Resources from
this episode:
Show Notes
Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised.
In this Suicide Awareness Month 3rd episode, Marci and Debbie talk with retired law enforcement officer–turned–licensed professional counselor Patricia Costilla about destigmatizing suicide, her path into counseling, and practical prevention. They explore what to say when someone reaches out in crisis, the power of human connection without judgment, and key warning signs for parents (including sudden behavior changes). The conversation includes resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text), how to connect with Patricia’s Second Wind Life Services, and a heartfelt reminder to “breathe life and love” into our kids and communities.
Why It Matters
In this September series on suicide awareness and prevention, Marci and Debbie welcome guest Patricia Costilla, a retired law enforcement officer turned licensed professional counselor. Patricia shares how witnessing colleagues struggle—often in silence due to stigma and job-related fears—propelled her into mental health work. Together they address common misconceptions, the power of naming suicidal thoughts, and the vital role of connection. They also touch on the limits and risks of AI-based “therapy” for youth, emphasizing the irreplaceable need for human, personalized support.
Spot the Signs, Start the Talk
Patricia offers practical guidance for parents and caring adults: look for changes in behavior—withdrawal from activities, shifts in sleep, mood, or social circles, or even sudden, out-of-character exuberance. When someone reaches out, respond with presence, non-judgment, and genuine curiosity. It’s okay to ask direct questions, breathe together, or simply talk about everyday things to reduce isolation. Make your home safer by limiting access to lethal means—especially locking up firearms and medications. For teens, create a safe space, model accountability (including apologizing when you get it wrong), and help them identify trusted adults beyond the family if needed.
Resources, Community, and Next Steps
If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone. Call or text 988 for immediate support; you can also call for guidance if you’re worried about someone. Patricia serves clients ages 12+ in South Carolina and can be reached at secondwindlifeservices.com; she also helps connect people to resources when she can’t personally see them. Explore CourTools on the Apple App Store or Google Play for daily mind-body practices, and join the “From Chaos to Calm: A Sanctuary for Moms” Facebook community to connect with other parents and experts. Take a small first step—reach out, listen, and keep the conversation going.
Thank you so much for listening to this episode! This podcast is dedicated to supporting families through the ups and downs of parenting and mental wellness. We know how tough it can be to raise kids in today’s world, but you don’t have to do it alone. Join us and let’s lift each other up.
With love,
Marci & Debbie
THE
PARENT PODCAST
Suicide: Spot the Warning Signs, Start the Talk
with Patricia Costilla
Show Notes
Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised
In this Suicide Awareness Month 3rd episode, Marci and Debbie talk with retired law enforcement officer–turned–licensed professional counselor Patricia Costilla about destigmatizing suicide, her path into counseling, and practical prevention. They explore what to say when someone reaches out in crisis, the power of human connection without judgment, and key warning signs for parents (including sudden behavior changes). The conversation includes resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text), how to connect with Patricia’s Second Wind Life Services, and a heartfelt reminder to “breathe life and love” into our kids and communities.
Key Points
From This Episode:
01:57 - Why It Matters
10:17 - Spot the Signs, Start the Talk
21:18 - Resources, Community, and Next Steps
Why It Matters
In this September series on suicide awareness and prevention, Marci and Debbie welcome guest Patricia Costilla, a retired law enforcement officer turned licensed professional counselor. Patricia shares how witnessing colleagues struggle—often in silence due to stigma and job-related fears—propelled her into mental health work. Together they address common misconceptions, the power of naming suicidal thoughts, and the vital role of connection. They also touch on the limits and risks of AI-based “therapy” for youth, emphasizing the irreplaceable need for human, personalized support.
Spot the Signs, Start the Talk
Patricia offers practical guidance for parents and caring adults: look for changes in behavior—withdrawal from activities, shifts in sleep, mood, or social circles, or even sudden, out-of-character exuberance. When someone reaches out, respond with presence, non-judgment, and genuine curiosity. It’s okay to ask direct questions, breathe together, or simply talk about everyday things to reduce isolation. Make your home safer by limiting access to lethal means—especially locking up firearms and medications. For teens, create a safe space, model accountability (including apologizing when you get it wrong), and help them identify trusted adults beyond the family if needed.
Resources, Community, and Next Steps
If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone. Call or text 988 for immediate support; you can also call for guidance if you’re worried about someone. Patricia serves clients ages 12+ in South Carolina and can be reached at secondwindlifeservices.com; she also helps connect people to resources when she can’t personally see them. Explore CourTools on the Apple App Store or Google Play for daily mind-body practices, and join the “From Chaos to Calm: A Sanctuary for Moms” Facebook community to connect with other parents and experts. Take a small first step—reach out, listen, and keep the conversation going.
Thank you so much for listening to this episode! This podcast is dedicated to supporting families through the ups and downs of parenting and mental wellness. We know how tough it can be to raise kids in today’s world, but you don’t have to do it alone. Join us and let’s lift each other up.
With love,
Marci & Debbie
We're on a mission to educate, inspire and transform lives, ages 4-104 using basic scientifically proven methods and tools to decrease stress, anxiety and to increase resiliency and overall well-being.
2882 Prospect Park Dr. Suite 100,
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
(916) 340-5252
© 2019 Cour Experience Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Non-Profit 501c3 EIN: 84-3383699
We're on a mission to educate, inspire and transform lives, ages 4-104 using basic scientifically proven methods and tools to decrease stress, anxiety and to increase resiliency and overall well-being.
2882 Prospect Park Dr. Suite 100,
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
(916) 340-5252
© 2019 Cour Experience Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Non-Profit 501c3 EIN: 84-3383699