Touched by Suicide is a deeply personal and in depth exploration of the suicidal impulse, one which transcends common beliefs about the primary role of mental illness as the single or sole cause. Drawing on her professional knowledge and personal experience, Taylor-Jones explains the complex conditions that lead to suicide, and argues that chronic anger, shame, self-hatred, anxiety, and impulsivity, as well as helplessness and despair, are often co-contributors. She suggests that a symbolic death-and-rebirth process is often required for healing and involves making meaning out of the suicidal impulse. 

This book is a tour of a psychological and historical nature that examines attitudes towards suicide in ancient Greece to Christianity to modern psychology. The author differentiates between suicides that are conscious suicides and suicides that are unconscious and sheds new light on heroic or selfless motives in suicides. Taylor-Jones points out that suffering is a natural part of life, yet there is a place of meaning in it.

By integrating Jungian principles, Touched by Suicide is a compassionate and insightful guide to understanding suicidal ideation. Touched by Suicide challenges a society to move beyond stigma and shame to one of support and empathy. The book is a useful guide for anyone struggling with suicidal ideation, as well as survivors of suicide, and even therapists who seek a deeper understanding of suicide and its pull.  Taylor-Jones attempts to facilitate healing, raise consciousness, and offer a new sense of meaning to those touched by suicide.