Faculty Spotlight: FSU suicide prevention expert Thomas Joiner explains why connection, conversation and research can save lives

In his three decades exploring a complex field, Joiner continues asking two overarching questions that many other psychologists are left wondering.

“Why would somebody choose that? And secondly, what can we do to prevent it? Those, to me, are the kind of holy grail questions of the field,” Joiner said.

Having developed a foundational framework in contemporary suicide research, Joiner’s influence extends beyond academia into clinical practice and public health policy. One area that encourages him is the growing willingness of others to talk openly about mental health, a shift he believes can help people experiencing suicidal thoughts reach out to others, including health care providers, family members and trusted support networks.

“I think an openness about mental health in general is really important,” Joiner added. “I’m encouraged that we’re making progress societally in that mental health fluency way, the kind of openness and literacy and fluency about mental health that simply didn’t exist when I was a young person.”

“I think an openness about mental health in general is really important.”

– Thomas Joiner, FSU Robert O. Lawton Distinguished Professor of Psychology

Public misconceptions can make suicide harder to discuss and prevent. Joiner points to harmful myths — including the idea that suicide is an act of cowardice, that it always happens without warning or that it is simply the result of drugs or alcohol — as barriers to better understanding, earlier intervention and more compassionate conversations.

“One (misconception) is that it comes out of the blue and hits people without much warning,” Joiner said. “It can seem that way, certainly from the outside, but I’m just not convinced that ever really happens in their true selves.”

Joiner’s research in an area of critical need has positioned FSU as a national leader in psychology, suicide prevention and mental health scholarship. After three decades on campus, he said that mission is inseparable from the public service role of FSU.

“This is a state university. I really believe that we’re beholden to the citizens of the state of Florida,” Joiner said. “They’ve been so supportive of this university and in turn, this university has been so supportive of me. I’m so glad I came here.”

As Suicide Prevention Month calls communities to help break silence, reduce stigma and strengthen connections, Joiner’s work offers a hopeful and urgent message: suicide prevention begins long before a moment of crisis. Through research, teaching and service at FSU, he continues to advance a field built on the belief that understanding saves lives, and that compassionate conversations can help more people find the support they need.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, there are resources available:

• The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7/365 with caring counselors who are available for confidential conversations. Dial 9-8-8 to reach the lifeline.
• The FSU Psychology Clinic is a mental health service, training and research center operated by FSU’s Department of Psychology. They can be reached at (850) 644-3006.