In this episode we're honoured to have Joanna as our guest, sharing her journey of resilience from teenage struggles with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts to finding hope and healing in her 50s.
Joanna's story began with challenges in her early teens, including the loss of her mother and own her battles with mental health issues. At 24, the suicide of her stepbrother was a turning point, leading her to seek support from Lifeline and professional help.
Reflecting on her experiences, Joanna credits Lifeline with saving her life multiple times and emphasises the importance of self-care in managing mental health. She now advocates for others, sharing her story to let them know they're not alone in their struggles.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Joanna for sharing her story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
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15:15
The daily battles with the inner demons
In this episode we're honoured to introduce Andrew, a Yamatji Man from Western Australia's Murchison Gascoyne region.
Andrew has walked a challenging path, grappling with depression and anxiety for over a decade. He vividly describes his journey as having the 'black dog' visit him frequently, casting long shadows of despair and confusion. These dark clouds often obscured his sense of direction, leaving him unable to see a clear path forward.
In today's episode, Andrew will share insights into his coping strategies, the hurdles he has overcome, and the message of hope he carries for both Indigenous and Non-Indigenous communities.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Andrew for sharing his story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
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16:21
Don’t let them win
On today’s episode we are joined by Paul. Paul is a resilient soul who embarked on a profound transformation after four decades of living behind a façade of "existences." Around 14 years ago, Paul's world collapsed, becoming the genesis of an ongoing journey of personal evolution. Despite battling a myriad of mental health and physical disabilities, including surviving a heart attack and grappling with recurring cardio issues, stroke, multiple bouts of cancer, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), and numerous other health conditions, Paul's determination to embrace life's trials and tribulations remains unyielding.
Each day, Paul bravely navigates his life, utilising his experiences to pave a path of enlightenment and advocacy. His mission is to normalize conversations around crucial yet often stigmatised topics such as Childhood Sexual Abuse, Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, Disabilities, and Chronic Health Conditions.
In today's episode, Paul shares his lived and living experiences, offering insights into the profound lessons learned through his journey. His resilience, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to advocacy serve as a beacon of hope for us all.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Paul for sharing his story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
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18:39
Other people who understand
Single mum Nicole was inspired to become a Lifeline crisis support worker after her own experience with suicidal ideation.
Having experienced an elongated battle with workplace bullying and victimisation after reporting a string of incidents of alleged sexual harassment and assault.
Nicole says she finds listening to people's pain and suffering and having the skills to connect with them on a deep level very healing and grounding.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Nicole for sharing her story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognize those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
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16:44
Turning on the headlights of hope
On today's episode, we are joined by Grant on the 31st of October 1994. Grant took on what he thought was the biggest challenge of his life getting sober. Along his journey he learned the power of talking therapy, prioritising mental and emotional well-being and setting crystal clear boundaries. Little did he know all his work of self-discovery was the foundation he needed to carry himself through seven years of adversity with resilience and determination.
In 2010, life took an unexpected turn, divorce the loss of a father home and a significant physical transformation due to stress, reshaped everything. Sharing his story is a testament to the transformative power of adversity.
Grants aim is to inspire and motivate others for change.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Grant for sharing his story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
Holding on to Hope takes the listener on a journey of personal stories about the lived experience of suicidality. Through authentic storytelling and connection, the podcast provides inspiration and support to those looking to find hope. Please note that suicidality and its contributing factors are discussed and may have a triggering effect. If you experience emotional distress as a result of listening, please reach out to someone you trust and/or call Lifeline on 13 11 14 at any time. If life is in danger, please call 000
Australia