Content Note: This episode discusses self-harm and suicide. While we hope this conversation equips families, caregivers, and organizations to better support those who are struggling, some listeners may find these topics difficult. Please listen at your own pace. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or is in immediate danger, seek help from local emergency services or a crisis resource in your country.

Season 6, Episode 6: Dr. Elizabeth Loewer on Navigating Self-Harm and Suicidality in Cross-Cultural Families

Join Brandi and James as they talk with Dr. Elizabeth Loewer, PsyD, about the unique challenges families, schools, and organizations face when supporting children, teens, and adults who struggle with self-harm and suicidality in cross-cultural settings.

Self-harm (also called non-suicidal self-injury or NSSI) refers to the intentional act of hurting one’s own body without the intention of ending one’s life. It is often used as a way to cope with overwhelming emotional pain, distress, or feelings that seem difficult to express. While self-harm is different from a suicide attempt, it is an important warning sign that someone is struggling and deserves compassionate attention and support.

Teens, in particular, face increasing pressures related to identity, relationships, social media, academic expectations, and mental health. For Third Culture Kids (TCKs) and globally mobile families, these challenges can be compounded by frequent transitions, unresolved grief and loss, cultural adjustment, isolation, and the complexities of living between cultures. Although most TCKs are resilient, these unique stressors can increase vulnerability for some young people. You can find resources on James’ website and more below.

Drawing from both her professional expertise and her personal experience growing up and working cross-culturally, Dr. Loewer shares practical insights for recognizing warning signs, responding with empathy, creating safer conversations around mental health, and equipping families and organizations to provide meaningful support while fostering hope and resilience.

Elizabeth Loewer is a licensed psychologist in Denver, Colorado, where she works with a diverse population in community mental health before recently launching a private practice focused on serving missionaries, Third Culture Kids, and globally mobile families. Elizabeth grew up as a missionary kid in Kenya and later served for three years as a resident assistant at Black Forest Academy, giving her both professional and lived experience in the unique challenges faced by cross-cultural families.

Find Dr. Loewer on Psychology Today or the International Therapist Directory

Resources

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or thinking about suicide, contact your local emergency services or crisis hotline immediately. If you are in the United States or Canada, call or text 988. If you are elsewhere, contact your country’s emergency services or nearest crisis center.

Crisis Support

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (US & Canada)
• FindAHelpline (Befrienders Worldwide directory) – International crisis helplines by country.
• Crisis Text Line – Text-based crisis support in several countries.

For TCKs and Cross-Cultural Workers

• TCK Training – Supporting Suicidal TCKs – Excellent practical guidance for parents, caregivers, educators, and member care providers working with Third Culture Kids. 
• TCK Training Podcast & Resources – Mental health resources specifically designed for globally mobile families.

Understanding Self-Harm

• International Society for the Study of Self-Injury (ISSS) Resource Library – Evidence-informed resources for individuals, families, educators, and clinicians. 
• Cornell Self-Injury & Recovery Resources – One of the most respected educational resources explaining why people self-harm and how to respond effectively.
• The Jed Foundation Mental Health Resource Center – Practical resources for young adults, parents, and friends. 

For Parents, Schools, and Organizations

• CDC Suicide Prevention Communication Playbook – Best practices for talking about suicide safely and responsibly. 
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) – Education, prevention resources, and support after suicide loss.
• Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) – Training, organizational resources, and evidence-based guidance.