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DSW Showcase Student Presentation

Tiffany Hall

MSW, LCSW

Surviving Loss: Addressing Challenges Faced by African American Suicide Loss Survivors. Navigating Grief, Tackling Trauma, and Fostering Healing.

Concentration -

  • Tuesday, April 29, 2025 -
  • 10:30 am
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Abstract

Suicide was the 3rd leading cause of death for African Americans ages 10-24 in 2022, with a notable 19.2% increase between 2018-2021. With the increase in suicides, comes the increase in suicide loss survivors. This presentation examines the unique challenges faced by African American suicide loss survivors and their communities as they navigate grief and complex trauma. Grounded in research, participants will examine a systemic review of literature that supports the need for culturally informed mental health resources. It highlights the intersection of complex trauma, prolonged grief, and cultural stigma while offering a nuanced understanding of social and systemic barriers that survivors face. Rooted in the Radical Healing Framework and Ecological Systems Theory, this presentation provides a holistic approach to fostering healing and empowerment for African American suicide loss survivors. This presentation emphasizes the power of culturally attuned practices that can increase mental health literacy and foster healing at the individual, group, and community level. Participants will leave with actionable tools to support African American suicide loss survivors, and their communities as they move from stigma to hope.

Biography

Tiffany Hall, LCSW, received a Bachelor of Social Work from UNC Greensboro and a Master of Social Work from the University of South Carolina. She is a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Kentucky in the College of Social Work where her research focuses on African American suicide loss survivors, trauma, and grief. Ms. Hall is licensed in Illinois and North Carolina. Actively involved in mental health advocacy, she is a member of the board of directors for the Mental Health Association in Forsyth County and the NC Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). She began volunteering with AFSP in 2015 and currently sits on the AFSP National Loss and Healing Council, contributing her expertise to the Programs Committee. In 2024, Ms. Hall was awarded the Ameri Corps Presidential Gold Volunteer Service Award for providing more than 500 hours of community service.
With two decades in the mental health field, Ms. Hall brings diverse experience to her roles. She is the owner of No Stigma, PLLC mental health agency where she provides trauma informed therapy and training to the community. She is an adjunct professor in the Departments of Social Work at UNC Greensboro where she imparts her knowledge and passion for mental health at the bachelor’s and master’s level. As a suicide loss survivor, she hopes that her efforts can bring an end to the stigma surrounding suicide and mental illness and improve mental health literacy.