When someone has been inside the suicidal thought process, D. Paul Fleming says the conversation needs more empathy—and less judgment.
In this clip from The MisFitNation, the U.S. Navy veteran and author of A Date With Suicide explains why he does not see suicide as simply a selfish act. Speaking from his own experience with PTSD, emotional pain, and suicidal thoughts, D. Paul describes the intense physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual suffering that can bring a person to that point.
His message is not about excusing the devastation suicide leaves behind.
It is about understanding the level of pain a person may be experiencing before we reduce their struggle to a label.
That distinction matters.
Compassion does not mean ignoring the impact on families and loved ones. It means recognizing that someone in a suicidal crisis may be thinking from a place of overwhelming pain, hopelessness, and distorted perspective.
If we want people to speak up before they reach that point, they have to believe they will be met with empathy instead of shame.
D. Paul’s message is clear:
Judge less. Listen more. Understand the pain behind the decision.
Watch the full conversation with D. Paul Fleming on The MisFitNation.
If you or someone you know is struggling in the U.S., call or text 988. Veterans can call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line.
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