An international epidemic, suicide has touched the lives of nearly half of all Americans, yet is rarely talked about openly. In this timely and important book, Susan Blauner breaks the silence to offer guidance and hope for those contemplating ending their lives -- and for their loved ones. A survivor of multiple suicide attempts, Blauner eloquently describes the feelings and fantasies surrounding suicide. In a direct, nonjudgmental, and loving voice, she offers affirmations and suggestions for those experiencing life-ending thoughts, and for their friends and family. Here is an essential resource destined to be the classic guide on the subject. “The best suicide prevention manual for the suicidal thinker, suicide attempter, layperson, or professional.” (Iris Bolton, founder of the National Resource Center for Suicide Prevention and Aftercare) “Each word written with thoughtful intent; each story told with the deepest of honesty and humility, and in doing so Blauner puts forward a life-saving book.” (Daniel J. Reidenberg, PsyD, Executive Director, Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (www.save.org)) “With neither hollow platitudes nor medical doublespeak… Blauner provides an extremely valuable and much-needed tool for both suicidal thinkers and their loved ones.” ( Publishers Weekly ) “A beacon of hope for the suicidal thinker as well as family members and friends. Susan Rose Blauner’s writing shinese with honesty and hope, compassion and courage. I am convinced that if my sister had read this book, our family history would have been changed.” (Anne D. LeClaire, author of Entering Normal ) “In her heartfelt and important book, Blauner … offers guidance and hope for those contemplating ending their lives.” ( Library Journal (starred review)) “Like a Fodor’s Guide that gets you from the depths of the hell of depression to the paradise of balanced life.” (Reese Butler, Program Manager, National Hopeline Network) “ How I Stayed Alive is vulnerable and resilient, deeply personal and profoundly practical. In its revised edition, this book will continue to be an important resource for those suffering from suicidal ideation and mental illness, and to provide insight and hope for their loved ones.” (Patrick J. Kennedy, former U.S. Representative and founder of The Kennedy Forum) I dedicate How I Stayed Alive to you and your loved ones.~ Sue Blauner The statistics on suicide are staggering. According to the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention, in 1997 in the USA more teenagers and young adults died from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia, influenza and chronic lung disease combined. It is also an international epidemic. Susan Blauner is the perfect emissary for a message of hope and a program of action for these millions of people. She's been though it, and speaks and writes eloquently about feelings and fantasies surrounding suicide.   Susan Rose Blauner is a powerful voice in the fields of mental wellness and suicide prevention. She has the unique distinction of transforming 18 years of suicidal ideation, multiple suicide attempts, four psychiatric hospitalizations, and more than 25 years of therapy into the internationally-acclaimed book, "How I Stayed Alive When My Brain Was Trying to Kill Me" (HISA).  Blauner is a sought-after public speaker, suicide prevention expert, advocate, and educator. She delivers keynotes, and leads workshops and trainings throughout the Unites States. In 2012, Blauner presented at the Department of Defense Annual Suicide Prevention Conference. She conveys strategies and philosophies aimed at de-escalating suicidal thoughts, managing depressive symptoms, and addressing the complexities of post-traumatic stress disorder. She also teaches loved ones and mental health professionals how to best support individuals struggling with mental health challenges.  In 2008, Blauner decided to return to graduate school for a social work degree to become a therapist. Four days before the start of the program, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Blauner spent much of the next two years in treatment. She returned to school in 2013 and will graduate with a MSW degree in 2015, at the age of 50. She believes that anything is possible and that every human being is capable of ultimate potential. The National Council on Suicide Prevention, The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and numerous national organizations and renowned institutions endorse HISA and Blauner's work. How I Stayed Alive When My Brain Was Trying to Kill Me: One Person's Guide to Suicide Prevention