70. How to persist when struggling with mental health with Sadie Sutton - host of the She Persisted Podcast

Sadie Sutton is the host of the She Persisted podcast. At 14 years old Sadie began a year and half intensive treatment for severe depression and anxiety. Now on the other side of her experience, she is a freshman at UPenn studying Psychology, Sadie was inspired to share her story with other teens who are also facing similar struggles and to be a relatable voice for those who are looking for resources. 

In this episode we discuss Sadie's experience, the importance of therapy, and the tools/ resources that she recommends for those who may be on their own path of personal growth. 

Key Takeaway: For parents with kids, truly impart the belief and the idea that you as a kid are worthy and deserving of love no matter what, and that your parents will be there no matter what you're feeling, what you've done, or your decisions, or your behaviors, they are still there to love and support you just as you are, and that's never going to change and I think that's huge.

Invest in that relationship so it's at that point where if something does go wrong or someone is struggling, you've created that foundation to navigate it effectively. Instead of just being like, 'well if something goes wrong I HOPE they would come to me, and I HOPE they would ask me for support,' but feeling really good about like 'I know that if my kid's in a tough situation, or they are in a social situation they don't feel comfortable in, I KNOW that they will call me because they know I am here without judgment, and I will help them get out of the situation, if there is a consequence that needs to happen we'll navigate that later, but I'm just here to support them because I care about their safety. Really building that foundation for the relationship in a preventative measure, so if something does happen you're good to go, and you've taken the steps you can to give your relationship the best chance it can at navigating the situation effectively.

Resources:

shepersistedpodcast.com

3East McLean Hospital https://www.mcleanhospital.org/treatment/3east

Book: Lost Connections by Johann Hari