Given the preponderance of suicidogenic risks and vulnerability for Black adults and youth, one might predict higher rates of suicide death in the Black community. However, suicide and factors that contribute to suicide “resilience” are understudied among Black Americans. Dr. Walker will discuss patterns of suicide death, highlight relevant research from the Culture, Risk, and Resilience Lab, and propose important steps in addressing suicide as a serious but preventable public health concern.

About Dr. Rheeda Walker

Dr. Rheeda Walker is an award-winning Professor of Psychology, a fellow in the American Psychological Association, and a leading scholar who has published more than 60 scientific papers on African American mental health, suicide risk, and emotional resilience. She is also a licensed clinical psychologist who prepares Professoral students for independent careers.

Dr. Walker’s impact has expanded beyond academia and she has quickly become a fan favorite with the release of her first book, The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health. Delving into the heart of the Black experience, Dr. Walker debunks myths about mental health, builds the case for psychological fortitude, and delivers practical advice for use in everyday life. Her charismatic vision and practical approach to life’s challenges have led to numerous appearances on Good Morning America, The Breakfast Club, and NPR, among others. She is often quoted in major publications like the Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times, the Huffington Post, GQ Magazine, and the Houston Chronicle.

Dr. Walker’s eclectic mix of experiences positions her well to achieve her ultimate goal of bringing culturally-informed, psychological fortitude to both professional and lay audiences.

About Dr. David A. Jobes

David Jobes, PhD, ABPP, is the founder of CAMS-care, LLC. He began his career in 1987 in the Counseling Center of the Catholic University of America, where he developed a suicide risk assessment tool for college students that evolved into an evidence-based treatment, CAMS, recognized by the Joint Commission, the Surgeon General, Zero Suicide, and the CDC. Dr. Jobes is now a Professor of Psychology and Associate Director of Clinical Training at Catholic; he has trained thousands of mental health professionals in the United States and abroad in evidence-based assessment and treatment of suicide risk and the use of CAMS.