Warning: This interview discusses suicide attempts. If you or someone you care about is struggling with suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 - the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
The last time Clancy Martin tried to kill himself was in his basement with a dog leash. It was one of over 10 suicide attempts throughout the course of his life—including his first at age 6. The prolific author and professor of philosophy says he doesn’t remember a time when he didn’t think about dying. As a young adult, he was stunned when he asked his friends if they felt the same way and he learned they did not. He thought they must not be telling him the truth.
Martin’s research covers the ethics of social and behavioral health, especially in the areas of suicide prevention and the treatment of addiction. In his new book, “How Not to Kill Yourself,” Martin chronicles his multiple suicide attempts in an intimate depiction of the mindset of someone obsessed with self-destruction.
Listen to the riveting conversation with Watching America’s Dr. Alan Campbell.
Find help and learn more about suicide prevention at 988lifeline.org.