294 Small Hearts Start Big Conversations

In this poignant episode of the Giving Voice to Depression podcast, we explore a chance encounter that changed lives forever. Join us as we hear from two remarkable individuals: Jonny, who stood on the edge, and Neil, whose compassion halted tragedy.Jonny ran from a psychiatric hospital to a nearby bridge, consumed by despair. But Neil appeared, offering a lifeline of understanding and empathy. Their exchange became a turning point, illuminating the power of human connection in the darkest of moments.Through their shared journey, we witness the transformative impact of compassion and the resilience of the human spirit. Join us for "Bridging Hope," a testament to the profound difference a simple act of kindness can make.

We're not taught how to have these conversations.: A friend or family member is struggling. Maybe they're just "not themselves." Maybe they're suicidal. How do we offer support them? What do we say? What do we need to avoid saying? What can we do that's actually helpful?In this episode we explore a list of real-world tested ways we learn from someone who has struggled mightily about the things his support network has done that have helped. These tips are for the end of the spectrum when someone is nearing or in crisis.Because we need to learn how to offer support and kindness without waiting to be asked.  Link to Sam's blog post with all 11 suggestions:https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/08/24/11-important-ways-my-loved-ones-supported-me-during-a-mental-health-crisis/Links to two previous episodes with ways to reach out:1) https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/146979232)https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/146979813) Link to free Mental Health America screenings: https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/

For the past two weeks we've explored ways to reach out for support if you are the one struggling. Today we shift gears. What if you know someone who seems really depressed--maybe even suicidal, and they're not reaching out. How do you reach IN?In the first of two episodes, our return guest Sam Dylan Finch details how people have shown up for him in helpful and meaningful ways.Not knowing what to do is not an excuse to do nothing.Link to Sam's blog post with all 11 suggestions:https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/08/24/11-important-ways-my-loved-ones-supported-me-during-a-mental-health-crisis/ Links to two previous episodes with ways to reach out:1) https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/146979232)https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/146979813) Link to free Mental Health America screenings: https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/

How many times have you heard: "Reach out if you are struggling."But it's not as easy or clear as it sounds. How? What if you don't even know what you want or need? What if your depression has convinced you no one cares, that you don't deserve help, or that you are a bother to people?It can all sound straight forward and obvious from the outside, or from wellness. But in dark times, or hours of crisis, nothing is clear. An articulate, caring and experienced mental health advocate made a list of 10 Ways to "Reach Out" When You're Struggling With Your Mental Health. We discuss his sixth through tenth suggestions in this episode.Part one: Everyone Says Reach Out for Help, But HOW? https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697923Link to Sam's list:  https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/03/03/10-ways-to-reach-out-when-youre-struggling-with-your-mental-health/

How many times have you heard: "Reach out if you are struggling."But how? What should you say? When should you say it and to whom? It can all sound straight forward and obvious from the outside, or from wellness. But in dark times, or hours of crisis, nothing is clear. And with depression convincing you no one cares about or would want to help you, it's even more complicated. An articulate, caring and experienced mental health advocate made a list of 10 Ways to "Reach Out" When You're Struggling With Your Mental Health. We discuss his first 5 suggestions in this episode.Link to Sam's list: https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/03/03/10-ways-to-reach-out-when-youre-struggling-with-your-mental-health/

"Carrying Buckets of Water for Those Still in the Fire" is a continuation of John's story from last week (#297- When You Learn That What You're Feeling Has a Name:") Despite delving into psychology, battling bouts of depression his whole life, and tirelessly researching his own mind and body, John struggled to piece together his inner turmoil. It wasn't until he connected with others sharing their experiences that the puzzle began to fit.Realizing he wasn't alone in his darkness shattered the misconception of personal failure or weakness. Depression, he learned, is a widespread and manageable condition. By bravely sharing his journey, John sheds light on the shadows of mental illness as other guests did for him when he needed hope and information.Join us for 22 minutes as John shares his hard-earned insights, offering hope and understanding to those navigating similar struggles. Together, let's "carry buckets of water for those still in the fire."

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, join us as we delve into John's journey of self-discovery. Struggling with the end of a relationship and battling Covid, John confronted the depths of his despair, only to realize that what he's been living with and battling most of his life has a name: depression. Tune in as we explore the societal pressures and personal revelations that led John to acknowledge his mental health struggles, challenging preconceived notions of masculinity and strength. This poignant episode offers a raw and honest exploration of one man's journey towards self-awareness and acceptance.Links to ACEs information & tests:https://americanspcc.org/take-the-aces-quiz/https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/index.html

In this poignant episode of Giving Voice to Depression, titled "Why You Have to Tell Someone if You're Suicidal," we delve into the critical importance of telling someone if you're struggling with suicidal ideation-- EVEN IF you believe no one cares or any of the other lies that depression is likely telling you.Our guest  Katie, bravely shares her personal experience of planning to end her life and the pivotal moment when she shared her secret and got the love, support and treatment she desperately needed. Drawing from her account we explore the deceptive nature of depression and the insidious, convincing lies it repeatedly tells those in its grip. Through Katie's story, we confront the dangerous misconception that one can manage these thoughts alone and emphasize the life-saving significance of reaching out for support.By engaging in an open dialogue about the internal battles many face, we aim to destigmatize conversations surrounding mental health and suicidal ideation to empower listeners to break the silence and seek the help they deserve to live lives worth living.Join us as we confront the silence surrounding suicidal thoughts, unravel the tangled web of depression's deceit, and champion the transformative power of reaching out in times of despair.Katie on IG: @Katie.TheBipolarTherapist

In this compelling episode, Katie shares her deeply personal journey through two distinct emergencies: one marked by psychiatric crisis and the other by physical trauma. With raw honesty, she contrasts her experiences navigating the emergency healthcare system during a period of intense vulnerability.First, Katie shares how, after detailed planning to end her life, she "broke down" and shared her plans with her sister. That disclosure led to her psychiatric hospitalization for much-needed care.  She shares the good and bad about how the hospital staff talked to her, the stigma that was evident throughout the experience, and the way her family responded. Then, she shifts focus to her unexpected hospital visit just months later,  following a freak accident that resulted in back surgery. Through her narrative, Katie explores the marked differences in treatment, support, and societal attitudes between her mental health and physical health emergencies.Throughout the episode, Katie reflects on her journey, and sheds light on the distinct differences of navigating dual emergencies, even though both were essentially life-saving medical treatments. 

In this special Valentine's  episode of our podcast, we delve into the heartwarming journey of Kathleen and the transformative power of small gestures in igniting conversations about mental health. At the heart of this narrative lies "The Little Heart Project," a touching initiative born from personal struggle and a desire to spread love and understanding.Kathleen's journey begins with a triggering trauma, leading her into the depths of a profound depression. Amidst the darkness, she finds a guiding light in the form of a compassionate therapist who helps her navigate through her pain and find a glimmer of hope. Alongside therapy, Kathleen discovers a new hobby, one that not only sparks joy within her but also ignites a newfound mission: to use her creativity to make a difference in the lives of others facing similar struggles.The catalyst for this mission? Small knit hearts, randomly placed and found, serving as tangible reminders of love and connection. These tiny tokens of affection become powerful symbols of empathy and understanding, encouraging open conversations about mental health wherever they go.Through Kathleen's journey, we explore the profound impact of kindness and compassion, especially during times of darkness and despair. The Little Heart Project serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the importance of reaching out, listening, and showing love to those in need.Join us for a 22-minute reminder of the power of small acts of kindness this Valentine's Day, as we celebrate the resilience of the human spirit and the healing potential of love.https://www.thelittleheartproject.org/