The Story of the Semicolon: A Pause, Not an End

01/09/2025 29 min Episodio 850
The Story of the Semicolon: A Pause, Not an End

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Episode Synopsis

Every September, the world pauses to recognize Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and World Suicide Prevention Day. Awareness matters, but awareness alone is not enough.
In this episode of PTSD and Beyond, Dr. Deb shares the story behind the semicolon — a symbol of survival, continuation, and hope. From its beginnings with Amy Bleuel and Project Semicolon to its spread as a global movement, the semicolon reminds us: your story isn’t over.
Dr. Deb explores:


🌍 Suicide as a global public health challenge — one person dies every 40 seconds


✨ Why awareness campaigns matter, but what must change beyond ribbons and rallies


🌱 How the semicolon symbolizes small acts of hope and continuation


🧘 A guided mindful pause to breathe, reflect, and remember that one sentence is not the whole story


❓ Reflection questions to deepen personal insight and action


🤝 Practical steps you can take to notice, ask, listen, and connect when someone is struggling


💬 Supportive phrases that show how to “be a semicolon” for someone else


This conversation invites us to go beyond the question of why and instead ask: What would it take for someone to feel hope? To believe life is worth continuing?
📚 Global Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available worldwide:


United States & Canada: Dial 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline


United Kingdom & Ireland: Samaritans – Call 116 123


Australia: Lifeline – 13 11 14


India: AASRA – +91 98204 66726


South Africa: SADAG – 0800 567 567


Worldwide: Befrienders International – befrienders.org


If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with someone who could use a reminder that they’re not alone.
And remember, we’re better together, we’re stronger together, and take what resonates and GO BEYOND!

In Love and Healing,
Dr. Deb
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