Like most people, David Woods Bartley has seen his fair share of successes and setbacks; from directing a nationally recognized nonprofit to battling a life-threatening mental illness. But over the last seven years, David has successfully navigated from the isolation of mental “hellness” to the inclusive space of mental wellness.

David has been invited to speak before a wide range of domestic and international audiences, giving keynote speeches and leading workshops on a variety of aspects of mental health, including suicide awareness and prevention, the power of connection to create hope, and the use of language as a tool for healing.

On today's show, David shares his story with Dr. Fred, including how a compassionate first responder saved him from suicide. Listen in to this intimate conversation, as David and Dr. Fred discuss the following:

• Hope as a lifesaver
• Contact and connection with other people as powerful sources
• The crucial questions first responders and clinicians asked David
• How listening can create “a sanctuary for the homeless parts of others”
• The burden of keeping up appearances
• Hope as the lifeblood of the human experience
• Essential distinction between isolation and solitude
• Depression as a thought disorder
• Key question: What would you do if you knew you were worthy?
• High-functioning (or "smiling") depressives
• What to say to someone you suspect might be having suicidal thoughts

 

Episode Length: 01:02:32

 

DAVID’S RESOURCES

Website > https://www.davidwoodsbartley.com/

Email > david at davidwoodsbartley dot com

David’s TEDx, “How Connection Saved My Life” > https://www.ted.com/talks/david_woods_bartley_how_connection_saved_my_life

 

ALSO MENTIONED ON TODAY’S SHOW > 

Kitchen Table Wisdom by Rachel Naomi Remen (book) > https://www.amazon.com/Kitchen-Table-Wisdom-Stories-Anniversary/dp/1594482098

Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig (book) > https://www.amazon.com/Reasons-Stay-Alive-Matt-Haig-ebook/dp/B00YOAZYWQ

Quote from Dr. Beverly Yahnke > “Depression must surely be the first cousin to hell on earth, for in the midst of suffering, the soul often feels hopeless and separated from God.”

WELCOME TO HUMANITY RESOURCES

Podcast Website >  http://www.welcometohumanity.net/podcast

PURCHASE DR. FRED’S BOOK (paperback or Kindle) > Creative 8: Healing Through Creativity & Self-Expression by Dr. Fred Moss http://www.amazon.com/Creative-Healing-Through-Creativity-Self-Expression/dp/B088N7YVMG

 

FEEDBACK  > http://www.welcometohumanity.net/contact