Some of the hardest mental health struggles are the ones people never see. In this deeply honest conversation, we talk about what depression actually feels like behind closed doors, why asking for help can feel impossible, and how healing often starts with small, imperfect steps. In this episode of Normalize The Conversation, Francesca sits down with Russ Jones, host of the ADHD Big Brother podcast, for a raw conversation about depression, self-harm, ADHD, emotional overwhelm, and the long journey of finding coping tools that actually work. Together, they explore what it feels like to experience depressive episodes while still appearing “fine” around other people, the loneliness that can show up when you’re struggling internally, and why so many people hide their mental health struggles out of fear of making others uncomfortable. Francesca vulnerably shares her lived experience with self-harm and how it became a coping mechanism during overwhelming emotional pain. This episode approaches self-harm with compassion and honesty, helping listeners better understand the emotional experience behind it while emphasizing hope, support, and healthier coping strategies. Russ opens up about navigating depression, addiction recovery, ADHD, and learning how community and humor became essential parts of his healing journey. You’ll also hear conversations around: Depression and emotional isolation Why self-harm happens and how recovery begins Healthy coping tools during overwhelming emotions Asking for help without shame ADHD, executive dysfunction, and mental health Building a support system that understands you Therapy, medication, community, and trial-and-error healing Why healing isn’t linear and that’s okay Whether you’re navigating depression, supporting someone who is struggling, healing from self-harm, or learning how to better understand your mental health, this episode is a reminder that you are not alone—and that healing rarely happens perfectly. If this conversation resonates with you, follow Normalize The Conversation, share this episode with someone who may need it, and help us continue breaking the stigma around mental health.