About the Hosts: Dennis Gillan is a mental health advocate and speaker dedicated to suicide prevention. After personally experiencing the loss of two brothers to suicide, Dennis shifted his focus towards aiding individuals and communities in understanding and addressing mental health issues. He frequently speaks at colleges and companies, sharing his journey and insights to foster open conversations about mental health, trauma, and healing. Jessica Seel is an advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. She joins Dennis in their collective mission to destigmatize mental health struggles and promote effective dialogue and support systems. Jessica brings a personal perspective to the conversation, sharing experiences of loss and coping strategies while emphasizing the importance of community and self-reflection. Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel delve into the complex topics of grief, trauma, and healing on "It's a Tough Subject" podcast. Both hosts openly share their personal stories of loss due to suicide and how these experiences have impacted their lives and work. The episode shines a light on the broader human experience of trauma, exploring how it affects everyone differently and discussing various coping mechanisms that can help along the way. Throughout the discussion, Dennis and Jessica emphasize the universality of grief and the significance of acknowledging anniversaries of loss, or "sadiversaries." They share ways they've learned to navigate these difficult days, from volunteering to celebrating life in new ways. The episode critically examines the notion of finding purpose and meaning in trauma, delving into philosophical reflections on existence, suffering, and faith. With thought-provoking insights and personal anecdotes, they invite listeners to consider their own journeys through adversity and the possibilities for healing and growth. Key Takeaways: Grief and trauma are universal experiences that can bring people closer or create division within relationships and families. Acknowledging "sadiversaries" through acts of celebration or volunteer work can transform the experience of loss into an opportunity for healing and connection. Trauma can shape individuals, leading them to discover resilience and purpose that might otherwise remain untapped. Embracing the notion that existence entails suffering can help individuals navigate difficult emotions with more acceptance and understanding. Being vulnerable about past experiences allows for greater empathy and connection in personal and public conversations about mental health. Resources: https://halfasorrow.org/ https://dennisgillan.com/ Stephen Colbert Interview with Anderson Cooper "Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People" (Book) "The View from Halfway Down" - Poem from BoJack Horseman episode https://youtu.be/u1_EBSlnDlU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFH4uEvpA-4 The View From Halfway Down The weak breeze whispers nothing the water screams sublime. His feet shift, teeter-totter deep breaths, stand back, it’s time. Toes untouch the overpass soon he’s water-bound. Eyes locked shut but peek to see the view from halfway down. A little wind, a summer sun a river rich and regal. A flood of fond endorphins brings a calm that knows no equal. You’re flying now, you see things much more clear than from the ground. It's all okay, or it would be were you not now halfway down. Thrash to break from gravity what now could slow the drop? All I’d give for toes to touch the safety back at top. But this is it, the deed is done silence drowns the sound. Before I leaped I should've seen the view from halfway down. I really should’ve thought about the view from halfway down. I wish I could've known about the view from halfway down— Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences with grief and trauma and consider how they can honor and grow from these challenges. For more insights and shared journeys of healing, tune into the following episodes, where Dennis and Jessica continue to tackle tough yet vital conversations in mental health and beyond.

In this emotionally poignant episode of the "Tough Subject" podcast, Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seal tackle the challenging yet crucial topic of dealing with anniversaries of loved ones lost to suicide, or as they term it, "sadiversaries." Airing in October, a significant month for both hosts due to their personal losses, Dennis and Jessica open up about their own experiences and provide listeners with heartfelt advice and insights on navigating such painful memories. Centered around grief, trauma, and recovery, the discussion highlights how these anniversaries can be both a source of pain and a catalyst for change. Dennis and Jessica dive deep into the importance of acknowledging and processing grief while also offering strategies to remember and celebrate the lives of those lost. Through their conversation, they emphasize that grief can linger for years but can also transform into a mission for helping others. The episode is a powerful reminder of the complexity of human emotions and the resilience required to turn personal tragedy into a force for good. Key Takeaways: Dealing with Sadiversaries: Both Dennis and Jessica share personal stories of how they confront and cope with the anniversaries of their loved ones' deaths by suicide. The Weight of Grief and Trauma: They discuss the continued impact of grief and trauma years after losing a loved one and the subconscious ways it can manifest in everyday life. Transforming Pain into Mission: Jessica and Dennis highlight how their personal losses have driven them to advocacy and education, turning their grief into a mission to prevent future tragedies. Anniversary Activities: Suggestions for observing anniversaries include taking the day off to grieve, celebrating the life of the deceased, and engaging in reflective and creative activities. Support and Healing: The hosts encourage listeners to support each other, highlighting that healing includes remembering positive moments and cherishing good memories. Notable Quotes: "Every year it gets easier, but what I realized this week is my subconscious is still hurting." - Jessica Seel "These problems you have right now are bad, but they get better." - Dennis Gillan "So your misery has become your mission." - Dennis Gillan reflecting on a pivotal understanding in his work. "We suffered one of the toughest losses on the planet, a loss by suicide." - Dennis Gillan "Think of it as celebrating their life." - Dennis Gillan on how to approach anniversaries of loved ones lost. Resources: Half a Sorrow Foundation: Learn more about the foundation led by Dennis Gillan here. Mental Health Support and Strategies: For additional coping strategies, consider mental health resources provided by local support organizations.

 Half a Sorrow Foundation: www.halfasorrow.org Book a Talk with Dennis Gillan: https://halfasorrow.org/book-a-talk/ Make a Donation: https://halfasorrow.org/support-our-work/ About the Hosts: Dennis Gillan is a renowned speaker and mental health advocate dedicated to suicide prevention. With personal experience of loss through suicide, Dennis transformed his grief into a mission, spreading awareness and hope. He started his own foundation and speaks at numerous conferences and events, sharing his deeply moving journey and advice. Jessica Seel has likewise experienced the immense loss of a loved one to suicide. As a dedicated advocate focusing on mental health and substance use disorder prevention, Jessica uses her experiences to educate and support others, especially through her involvement in various initiatives and speaking engagements. She combines her personal journey with professional insight to help the community at large. Episode Summary: In this compelling episode of "It's A Tough Subject," Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel delve into the profound and often neglected topic of suicide loss survivors. They introduce their podcast, aptly named for its heavy yet essential discussions, encapsulating their personal experiences with suicide losses. Both Dennis and Jessica share their deeply personal stories, reflecting on their journeys toward healing and resilience, and the importance of open conversations about mental health. Throughout the episode, keywords such as "suicide prevention," "mental health advocacy," "grief," and "healing" are central to their discussions. Dennis opens up about attending the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's (AFSP) Long-Term Survivors of Suicide Loss Summit in Austin, where he met like-minded individuals and professionals. He recounts his emotional moments at the summit and shares insights from various speakers, connecting them back to his personal experiences. Jessica relates these moments to her own journey, emphasizing concepts like "soul exhaustion" and the ripple effect of suicide, and how these affect long-term survivors. Key Takeaways: The significance of creating open dialogues about mental health and suicide prevention. Personal stories and coping strategies from Dennis and Jessica as long-term survivors of suicide loss. Insights from the AFSP Long-Term Survivors of Suicide Loss Summit, including discussions on grief, empathy, and establishing boundaries. The importance of professional and community support in healing from the trauma of suicide. The ripple effect of suicide and how it impacts not only families but also the broader community and emergency responders. Notable Quotes: "Grief just jumps on your back." - Dennis Gillan "Do you ever feel like you're almost pushing so hard, and this is the later result of this long-term loss that you just have to do it, do it, do it?" - Jessica Seel "If not you, then Dennis, then who? If not you, Jessica, then who?" - Dennis Gillan "You need a therapist, you need a professional. But every now and then, if someone needs their handheld, I will answer the call." - Dennis Gillan "Hang in there, folks. You can do it. We're your people." - Jessica Seel Resources: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Sue Klebold's TED Talk, 2016 Dennis Gillan's Foundation and Speaking Engagements AFSP Healing Conversations Program Stay tuned for more enlightening conversations on "It's A Tough Subject," where we confront difficult topics with empathy, support, and actionable advice. Listening to these shared experiences can provide valuable insights and comfort, knowing you are not alone in facing these challenges.  

Show Notes Half a Sorrow Foundation: www.halfasorrow.org Book a Talk with Dennis Gillan: https://halfasorrow.org/book-a-talk/ Make a Donation: https://halfasorrow.org/support-our-work/ About the Hosts: Dennis Gillan: Dennis is the Founder and Executive Director of the Half A Sorrow Foundation, dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health advocacy through storytelling, community engagement, and education. With over a decade of personal experience, Dennis is a prominent speaker in the field, sharing his journey and insights to help others. Jessica Seel: Jessica is the co-host of the "It's a Tough Subject" podcast, collaborating with Dennis Gillan to address and navigate sensitive topics related to suicide loss and mental health. Jessica's personal experience as a long-term survivor of suicide loss drives her passion for shedding light on these critical issues. Episode Summary: In this impactful episode of the "It's a Tough Subject" podcast, host Dennis Gillan and co-host Jessica Seel, delve deep into the heartbreaking yet vital subject of suicide loss and mental health advocacy. They open with a powerful disclaimer warning listeners about the sensitive content, aiming to foster a safe, supportive environment while discussing these challenging topics. Dennis and Jessica share their personal experiences as long-term survivors of suicide loss, emphasizing how such traumatic events can redefine one's life and identity. Throughout the episode, they explore the importance of creating a safety plan, building a supportive tribe, and the role of social connections in mental health. Emphasizing the value of community, Dennis mentions the upcoming long-term survivors meeting by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) in Austin, Texas, and reflects on the importance of these gatherings. Jessica highlights how essential it is to combat loneliness and nurture a sense of purpose, drawing parallels with insights from the Netflix documentary on blue zones. They both advocate for the necessity of supportive networks in healing and stress that suicide is preventable with the right intervention and support systems. Key Takeaways: Importance of Safety Plans: Having a safety plan is crucial for individuals struggling with mental health, providing a structured approach to seek help and stay safe. Building a Tribe: Emphasizes the significance of social connections in mental health, highlighting how a supportive community can make a difference in someone's recovery journey. Long-term Survivor Insights: Dennis and Jessica share personal stories, offering valuable perspectives on living as long-term survivors of suicide loss. Role of Social Media: Discusses the impact of social media on mental health, noting both positive and negative aspects. Purpose and Healing: Explores how finding purpose and engaging in meaningful activities can aid in the mental health recovery process. Notable Quotes: "When you have a trauma like that, it sort of defines you in a sense. It’s like a different marker in your history." - Dennis Gillan "You made your misery your mission." - Dennis Gillan Resources: Half A Sorrow Foundation: https://halfasorrow.org/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): https://afsp.org/ Blue Zones Documentary on Netflix Dennis Gillan’s TEDx Talk on Loneliness (Episode 1) Tune in to the full episode for an insightful discussion on mental health, the significance of community support, and practical steps on how to build a safety plan. Stay connected for more enlightening content that aims to make a difference.  

About the Host: Dennis Gillan is the Founder and Executive Director of the Half a Sorrow Foundation. With a mission of providing support for those affected by suicide loss, Dennis channels his personal experiences into advocating for mental health and suicide prevention. He turned his profound grief over losing two brothers to suicide into a passion for helping others share their sorrows and find healing, embodying his foundation's motto: "A shared joy is a double joy. A shared sorrow is half a sorrow." Episode Summary: In this emotional and powerful episode, Dennis Gillan shares his heart-wrenching journey through the loss of his two brothers to suicide and his work with the Half a Sorrow Foundation. With raw honesty, Dennis recounts the devastating impact these losses had on his life and the path he took to become a beacon of hope for others suffering from similar tragedies. Dennis reflects on the 30th anniversary of his brother Matthew's death by suicide, sharing the haunting details and the emotional aftermath that followed. He also discusses the pervasive guilt and pain that suicide leaves in its wake and the importance of addressing mental health and preventing access to lethal means. Through his experiences, Dennis emphasizes the critical need for support networks and the transformative power of sharing one's grief. Key Takeaways: Anniversaries of Loss: Dennis shares the profound sense of grief and struggle that accompanies anniversaries of his brothers' suicides. Complicated Grief: The lingering feelings of guilt and shame that suicide survivors often carry, and the ways it impacts their lives. Gun Safety: The role of firearms in suicide and the importance of addressing this as a public safety issue. Coping Mechanisms: Dennis's personal journey towards sobriety as a part of his coping process with the loss of his brothers. Message of Hope: The importance of support, prevention, and reaching out to those who might be struggling with suicidal thoughts. Notable Quotes: "A shared joy is a double joy. A shared sorrow is half a sorrow." "Some anniversaries just suck. They just suck. This one sucks." "What was Matt thinking that night? And I wonder. I wonder if anyone who has ever died by suicide, all I can do is wonder, because they're not around to talk to them." "If I prevent one family from having to bury one person, it'll all be worth it, every damn bit of it." Resources: Half a Sorrow Foundation: https://halfasorrow.org/ For more insightful episodes and to stay updated on our latest content, be sure to subscribe and follow our podcast/webinar/series. Let’s continue sharing, supporting, and creating awareness together.

Half a Sorrow Foundation: www.halfasorrow.org Book a Talk with Dennis Gillan: https://halfasorrow.org/book-a-talk/ Make a Donation: https://halfasorrow.org/support-our-work/ About the Hosts: Dennis Gillan: Dennis Gillan is the Founder and Executive Director of the Half a Sorrow Foundation, an organization committed to suicide prevention and supporting survivors of suicide loss. With a personal history of losing two brothers to suicide, Dennis brings a deeply personal and passionate perspective to the cause. Through the foundation, he conducts talks, provides resources, and advocates for mental health awareness. Jessica Seel: Jessica Seel serves as our co-host and has made her misery her mission as well. Her day job focuses on promoting behavioral health policies and programs across rural communities. Jessica brings an intimate understanding of mental health issues, having lost her father to suicide at a young age. Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of the "It's a Tough Subject" podcast, hosts Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel delve into the nuances of surviving suicide loss, mental health challenges, and the importance of community support. They begin with a solemn reminder of the gravity of the topic, emphasizing the need for awareness, empathy, and proactive measures in the face of rising suicide rates in America. Throughout the conversation, Dennis and Jessica explore key themes such as the impact of losing a loved one to suicide, the significance of self-care, and the multifaceted approach required in mental health treatment. They recount personal anecdotes that highlight the ripple effects of suicide and discuss how initiatives like the Camo Hat Club are fostering supportive spaces for men to discuss their mental health openly. Key Takeaways: Family Impact: The profound effect of suicide on surviving family members is discussed, emphasizing the need for community and familial support during such trying times. Self-Care Importance: Jessica and Dennis stress the essential role of self-care and personal wellbeing in managing mental health, sharing their own strategies and experiences. Community Support: The role of support groups like the Camo Hat Club in providing a safe space for individuals, particularly men, to express their struggles and receive peer support. Education & Advocacy: Highlighting the shortage of mental health professionals, they call for better support systems and educational initiatives to encourage more people to enter the field. Suicide Risk Factors: A discussion on various risk factors for suicide, including family history and transitional periods, and how being aware of these can help in prevention efforts. Notable Quotes: "I lost two brothers to suicide. One when I was 20, Matthew when I was 31." - Dennis Gillan "When it comes down to it...I do want to believe that if we had had more support from our community, things might have been different." - Jessica Seel "Mental health and suicide is a complicated problem, and it takes a complicated solution." - Dennis Gillan "It's okay to do that, to take care of ourselves, to have a little self-care." - Jessica Seel "We need more than just providers. We need camo hat clubs in every county." - Jessica Seel Resources: The Half a Sorrow Foundation: Learn more about Dennis's mission, book talks, and find resources.  

Half a Sorrow Foundation: www.halfasorrow.org Book a Talk with Dennis Gillan: https://halfasorrow.org/book-a-talk/ Make a Donation: https://halfasorrow.org/support-our-work/  About the Hosts: Dennis Gillan Dennis Gillan is the Founder and Executive Director of the Half a Sorrow Foundation, an organization dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health awareness. As a passionate advocate for mental health, Dennis has turned his personal tragedies into a mission to help others. He has spoken extensively about suicide loss and the importance of mental health support. Jessica Seel Jessica Seel serves as our co-host and has made her misery her mission as well. Her day job focuses on promoting behavioral health policies and programs across rural communities. Jessica brings an intimate understanding of mental health issues, having lost her father to suicide at a young age. Episode Summary: In this poignant episode of “It’s a Tough Subject,” Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel delve into their personal stories as survivors of suicide loss and discuss the importance of addressing such a challenging topic. Dennis and Jessica, who have both lost close family members to suicide, provide a unique and heartfelt dialogue about their struggles and the path to healing. They emphasize the significance of mental health conversations and the therapeutic role of community and support networks. Throughout the episode, Dennis shares insights about the “Camo Hat Club,” a monthly gathering of men focused on checking in on each other’s mental health. He highlights the critical need for men to open up about their mental well-being given that men account for 80% of all suicides. Jessica touches on her coping mechanisms, including her love for animals and her journey to finding her voice in speaking out about her experiences. Together, they discuss the complexities of grief, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the necessity of creating safe spaces for these difficult conversations. Key Takeaways: Importance of Mental Health Conversations: Dennis and Jessica stress the need to talk openly about mental health and suicide loss to break the stigma and foster understanding. Camo Hat Club: Dennis explains how this initiative serves as a vital touchpoint for men to discuss their mental health regularly, emphasizing the high suicide rates among men. Coping Mechanisms: Jessica discusses her love for animals as a critical part of her healing process and urges others to find what comforts them. Post-Trauma Behaviors: Both hosts reflect on their unhealthy coping mechanisms following their losses and emphasize the significance of forgiving oneself for these behaviors. Role of Community and Support: They highlight how crucial it is to have a community or support system to navigate through the pain and find healing. Notable Quotes: “It’s a tough subject. Nobody wants to talk about it.” – Dennis Gillan “You have to ask pointed questions, too. If you really feel something, you don’t say, ‘Just checking in on you.’ If you feel like someone’s in danger, you say point blank, ‘Are you trying to hurt yourself?’” – Jessica Seel “When your miseries become your mission, it’s a good fatigue.” – Dennis Gillan “Why would you blame a sick person? They’re not a bad person; they’re a sick person.” – Jessica Seel “We are proof, and it’s a tough subject, but there is life on the other side.” – Dennis Gillan Resources: Half a Sorrow Foundation South Carolina Office of Rural Health Mental Health First Aid Fox Carolina Encourage yourself to explore more about mental health and suicide prevention by listening to this powerful episode. Stay tuned for more insightful content from “It’s a Tough Subject.”  

Half a Sorrow Foundation: www.halfasorrow.org Book a Talk with Dennis Gillan: https://halfasorrow.org/book-a-talk/ Make a Donation: https://halfasorrow.org/support-our-work/ About the Hosts: Dennis Gillan is the Founder and Executive Director of the Half a Sorrow Foundation. With a focus on mental health advocacy, Dennis promotes the proverb, "A shared joy is a double joy; a shared sorrow is half a sorrow," to drive home the importance of community in grief. He has a personal connection to his work, having lost two brothers to suicide, which he now uses as a driving force to help others through speaking and outreach initiatives. Jessica Seel serves as our co-host and has made her misery her mission as well. Her day job focuses on promoting behavioral health policies and programs across rural communities. Jessica brings an intimate understanding of mental health issues, having lost her father to suicide at a young age. Episode Summary: In this powerful introductory episode, Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel dive deep into their personal stories of loss and resilience. Both having lost close family members to suicide, they discuss the complexities of this unique form of grief, emphasizing the importance of community and open conversations about mental health. They aim to dismantle the stigma associated with suicide and provide a platform for survivors to share their experiences. Dennis and Jessica also delve into the societal challenges surrounding mental health, particularly the shame and self-medication often tied to traumatic experiences. They highlight the contrast between the general public's recognition of physical illnesses and the lack of support for mental health struggles. This episode sets the stage for future discussions aimed at breaking the silence around mental health and building a supportive community for those affected. Key Takeaways: The Importance of Sharing: "A shared joy is a double joy; a shared sorrow is half a sorrow." Sharing personal grief can significantly alleviate the burden. Complexity of Suicide Grief: Both Dennis and Jessica stress that suicide grief is uniquely complicated, often accompanied by a myriad of 'would have, could have, should have' questions. Resilience and Healing: Despite the pain, healing is possible, and discussing mental health openly can play a crucial role in recovery. Breaking Stigma: Both speakers call for a shift in societal attitudes, advocating for the same level of support for mental health issues as is given to physical illnesses. Community and Connection: The hosts emphasize the value of building supportive networks and using platforms like this podcast to foster dialogue and community support. Notable Quotes: "A shared joy is a double joy; a shared sorrow is half a sorrow." — Dennis Gillan "Suicide comes with this baggage of would have, could have, and should have, and it stays with us for the rest of our lives." — Dennis Gillan "Healing is possible for folks like us." — Jessica Seal "Sometimes I want to go there and, like, cry it out. Other times, like, oh, not now. No, not now." — Dennis Gillan "Isolation can kill." — Jessica Seel Resources: Half a Sorrow Foundation: www.halfasorrow.org Book a Talk with Dennis Gillan: https://halfasorrow.org/book-a-talk/ Make a Donation: https://halfasorrow.org/support-our-work/ Book "A Grace Disguised: How the Soul Grows Through Loss" (book referenced by Dennis Gillan)