Presenter: 

Lydia Anne M. Bartholow, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, FIAAN.

Description: 

Young adults presenting with suicidal ideation (SI) and co-occurring substance use often do so in the context of complex developmental and environmental stressors. These challenges are often compounded by histories of adversity that may not be immediately visible but have measurable impacts on emotional regulation, risk perception, and engagement with care. High Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) scores can serve as a neurobiological vulnerability, increasing the likelihood of both suicidality and substance use.

This workshop offers a practical, clinically focused approach for working with young adults experiencing suicidal ideation and substance use, grounded in the principles of trauma-informed care (TIC). Participants will learn how to integrate a trauma-informed lens into all aspects of care—from assessment to safety planning—and how to adapt interventions for young people who use substances. This includes the use of non-traditional safety planning methods that prioritize harm reduction and suicide prevention.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify and explain the relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), suicidal ideation, and substance use in young adults, including their impact on emotional regulation and care engagement

2. Apply trauma-informed care (TIC) principles to clinical interactions with young adults presenting with co-occurring suicidal ideation and substance use, from initial assessment through to intervention and safety planning.

3. Demonstrate the ability to adapt traditional safety planning approaches by incorporating harm reduction strategies that address both suicidality and substance use in a developmentally appropriate and non-stigmatizing manner.