My friend Sarah Carter (active LDS, mother of three, Masters of Social Work) shares her journey growing up with abuse and trauma—and her story of not fitting the mold of a typical LDS youth. Sarah talks about how that abuse and trauma was tied to her three marriages that ended. After those marriages, Sarah looked inward with new clarity about the work she needed to do to heal and overcome over 20 years of trauma. Sarah knew that with good therapy, hard work and the Savior, she could break the cycle of trauma.

Sarah also talks about her wonderful younger brother Daniel who died by suicide in 2014 at the age of 28. It is a tribute to him and his good heart—and turning to unhelpful coping mechanisms to deal with the pain and reality of his life.

Sarah is now a LCSW and runs her own practice (see the show notes). Because of her own personal story, academic training, and clinical work, Sarah is able to help others.

If you are in a tough spot and looking for hope, Sarah’s story will help you. Thank you Sarah for your courage. You are helping so many.

Podcast Links:

Daniel’s Facebook Post:

So I had a great time and feel like my testimony is growing because I am putting time in listening to Conference, and reading my scriptures. Also I am taking the missionary discussions. The missionaries that come over are so awesome!! I am learning soooo much. And I am feeling more happy than I have in years!!!! So, I gotta start my CNA or some trade soon, still trying to decide what I can do, then I can be self dependent and put myself through school. I only have one semester I need to finish up to get my Associates degree. Well, im just happy my life is back on track. It feels very good. I took a detour there for a while but Im proud of myself for having the Willpower to say no more and pull myself out of the situation I was in. Very Painful, and hard, Love you, I am becoming very optimistic about life, where a while ago I was Depressed and kinda--apathetic? I guess there is Light at the end of the tunnel!!! I am glad to be the Genuine Daniel I am today!!!!

Heart and Soul Wellness Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6y-80Rj978I&t=3s

Daniel’s Tribute: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fQ0eiqh5fAaiPTQvDXvrrnWZ6ywTteoU/view