Since the COVID 19 pandemic began reshaping our lives, there’s been a new openness to discussing mental health. Celebrities, athletes, artists and others in the public eye have opened up like never before, sharing their personal experiences with anxiety and depression and other mental health struggles. Two of the biggest sports stories of 2021 ignited conversations about mental health inspired by the profound, public experiences of Olympic gymnast Simone Biles and tennis champion Naomi Osaka.

My guest today is Jennifer Sutton, an ultra-runner, single mother and a Sergeant with Douglas County Fire and EMS just outside of Atlanta. As a first responder, Jennifer’s job requires her to be strong, clear-headed and in-charge. Earlier this year she was named a first responder of the year during an incredibly challenging time for everyone in health care and emergency services. 

Jennifer has also quietly struggled with depression for most of her life and overcame a difficult childhood. She became a mother while she was in high school, but went on to have two successful careers and raise a daughter who is now a sergeant in the US Army.