Giving Voice to Depression Giving Voice to Depression

In this inspiring follow-up episode, we revisit the remarkable journey of Jonny and Neil, whose lives intersected on a bridge during a mental health crisis, altering their paths forever. Six years after their life-saving encounter, they reunite as partners in mental health advocacy, spreading a message of hope and recovery.
Jonny and Neil's reunion is a testament to the enduring power of connection and the profound impact of compassion. From the depths of despair to the forefront of advocacy, they have transformed their shared experience into a beacon of hope for others struggling with mental health challenges.
 

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/2032100/14697923
2)https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697981
3) 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/2032100/14697923
2)https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697981
3) 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/2032100/14697923
Link 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/