TY - JOUR T1 - Family Medicine: Bridge to Life JF - The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine JO - J Am Board Fam Med SP - 161 LP - 164 DO - 10.3122/jabfm.2016.01.150065 VL - 29 IS - 1 AU - Clare Luz Y1 - 2016/01/01 UR - http://www.jabfm.org/content/29/1/161.abstract N2 - Reflecting on the suicide of a close friend, this essay explores what comprises, and inspires a will to live, and how those in Family Medicine can address suicide risk even in the face of debilitating or terminal illness. Research indicates that the will to live is a measurable indicator of general well-being, distinct from depression, and an important predictor of a person's motivation to “hold on to life”. As such, understanding what is at the heart of a desire to live should alter clinical practice. This essay offers ideas for ways in which to create bridges for patients that could help sustain life. ER -