SUICIDE TANGO: My Year Killin’ It With A Shrink

South’s Suicide Tango is an illuminating, gallows humor look at teen suicide via dialogue between Tripsy and the psychiatrist she decides to claim as a confidant. She waltzes into Dr Jon Moore’s office one day, changing his life forever. Over the course of a year, she and the doc have some serious, in-depth discussions. The unexpected encounter paves the way for an alchemic transformation at the hands of the precocious, sarcastic enigma that is Tripsy, for both the good doctor, and the persistent reader.

Teen suicide is a serious subject, a rising epidemic. And yet, it and the underlying reasons behind it, are a subject considered taboo. Tripsy shines a harsh light on the topic, showing that it’s more shame and denial on society’s part than any intrinsic damnation that makes suicide a forbidden topic.

I found this a difficult read, both for the topic and then writing style. It took me some time to get used to the latter. The former should never be ‘gotten used to’ though, part of Tripsy’s point. Some may find the gallows humor offensive. If you do, perhaps take a look at your own notions regarding the issue. Such humor is the natural, protective reaction of someone confronted daily with horror to leave you weeping otherwise. As one who was involved for a time with forensics, I fully understand. It’s a protection that allows you to keep your sanity and doesn’t mean your sensitivity is lost.

Full of wry observations, and justifiable outrage, Suicide Tango is a must-read for everyone. It’s only through confronting the issue head-on, with an openness of mind and heart alike, that we can begin to turn the tide. Take the chance. Be part of the change.