How does Michelle Palmer's experience in recovery influence her approach to suicide prevention?

I’m Michelle Palmer, and my own experience in recovery is at the heart of how I approach suicide prevention.

Because I’m a survivor and in recovery myself, I don’t see suicide prevention as just information or a class topic. I see the faces and stories behind it. I know what it’s like to struggle, to feel alone, and to fight your way back, so I speak from lived experience, not theory.

That’s why I focus on:

• Reducing shame and stigma around mental health and addiction
• Meeting people with empathy instead of judgment
• Emphasizing that recovery works if you work it, and that asking for help is strength, not weakness

My goal is to bring recovery into the community so people know they’re not alone and that hope and healing are possible.

Would you like to hear some concrete steps I share for supporting someone who might be suicidal?