In this first episode of a two-part series on Finding Your Balance, hosts Tiffani Fritzsche and Kirk Fasshauer begin a compassionate and honest conversation about suicide awareness and prevention. They explore the growing impact of suicide in communities, break down common myths that keep people from speaking up, and emphasize the importance of using thoughtful, nonjudgmental language. The episode also sheds light on the often unseen emotional pain behind suicidal thoughts, the role of connection and belonging, and why asking someone directly about their well-being can be a powerful first step. Listeners are encouraged to take care of themselves as they engage with this important topic and to continue the conversation in part two.

24/7 Local Crisis Phone Line: 863.519.3744

24/7 Local Crisis Text Line: Text “TALK” to 863.204.3443

24/7 National Crisis Line: 988

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

In this episode of Finding Your Balance, hosts Tiffani Fritzsche and Kirk Fasshauer discuss how to start a supportive conversation with someone who may be struggling with their mental health. They explore why it can feel intimidating to speak up, practical ways to approach a friend or loved one with care, and simple communication tools like using “I” statements, open-ended questions, and active listening. The conversation emphasizes that you don’t have to have all the answers to help—sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is listen and create a safe space for someone to be heard.

24/7 National Crisis Line: 988

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

The college experience may look differently for someone living on campus vs. someone living off-campus and commuting to classes. But, the main thing to remember is you aren’t alone. Both types of students can find their sense of belonging and navigate the complexities of becoming more of an adult by following the advice offered by Kirk Fasshauer and Tiffani Fritzsche. In Episode 9, Part 2 of 2 of Finding Your Balance: A Mental Health Podcast presented by Peace River Center and Southeastern University, our hosts dive into their top five pieces of advice for both those living on campus and off.

24/7 Local Crisis Phone Line: 863.519.3744

24/7 Local Crisis Text Line: Text “TALK” to 863.204.3443

24/7 National Crisis Line: 988

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Whether you are a student living on campus or a student commuter, the stressors and lessons you learn contribute towards shaping the adult you will become. Both experiences have merit in allowing you to broaden your expectations of who you are, what you are capable of, and what activities and groups you want to bring into your life. In Episode 9, Part 1 of 2 of Finding Your Balance: A Mental Health Podcast presented by Peace River Center and Southeastern College, Kirk Fasshauer and Tiffani Fritzsche discuss their vastly different college experiences and how they influenced who they are today.

24/7 Local Crisis Phone Line: 863.519.3744

24/7 Local Crisis Text Line: Text “TALK” to 863.204.3443

24/7 National Crisis Line: 988

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Reframing stressful situations can help reduce the anxious feelings in our bodies. By recognizing without judgment what we are struggling with mentally, we can process the experience in healthier ways.  In Episode 8, Part 2 of 2 of Finding Your Balance: A Mental Health Podcast presented by Peace River Center and Southeastern University, Kirk and Tiffani share their experiences with handling anxiety and offer tips to help de-escalate the mental imbalance it causes.  

24/7 Local Crisis Phone Line: 863.519.3744

24/7 Local Crisis Text Line: Text “TALK” to 863.204.3443

24/7 National Crisis Line: 988

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Do you know the difference between stress and anxiety? Listening to and understanding your body may be a helpful indicator of whether you are experiencing stress or anxiety. Those clues will help you determine your next steps toward helping yourself through this challenging time. Tune into Episode 8, Part 1 of 2 of Finding Your Balance: A Mental Health Podcast presented by Peace River Center and Southeastern University to learn tools and tips from Kirk and Tiffani on alleviating stress and de-escalating anxiety.

24/7 Local Crisis Phone Line: 863.519.3744

24/7 Local Crisis Text Line: Text “TALK” to 863.204.3443

24/7 National Crisis Line: 988

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Sometimes anxiety stems from a learned behavior or even from a lack of knowledge. In Episode 7, Part 2 of 2 of Finding Your Balance: A Mental Health Podcast, Kirk and Tiffani share how anxieties and phobias are conditions we can overcome with the proper tools, resources, and education. 

24/7 Local Crisis Phone Line: 863.519.3744

24/7 Local Crisis Text Line: Text “TALK” to 863.204.3443

24/7 National Crisis Line: 988

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

In Episode 7, Part 1 of 2, Kirk and Tiffani explore a more in-depth look at anxiety from Episode 6 by discussing what our minds and bodies experience when we undergo stressful situations. From having brain fog to feeling aches and pains, anxiety shows up symptomatically sometimes before we realize we are experiencing a general anxiety disorder.

24/7 Local Crisis Phone Line: 863.519.3744

24/7 Local Crisis Text Line: Text “TALK” to 863.204.3443

24/7 National Crisis Line: 988

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Having anxiety is a very normal response that can help you stay focused and prepared for what is to come. But when anxiety starts to hinder our ability to thrive, how can we help ourselves? In Episode 6 of Finding Your Balance: A Mental Health Podcast presented by Peace River Center and Southeastern University, Kirk and Tiffani share tips on how to break the negative spiral of anxiety and instead use it to help you prepare for life’s challenges.

24/7 Local Crisis Phone Line: 863.519.3744

24/7 Local Crisis Text Line: Text “TALK” to 863.204.3443

24/7 National Crisis Line: 988

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Maintaining mental health is easier when you have an actionable plan and a toolbox of resources. In Episode 5, Part 2 of 2 of Finding Your Balance: A Mental Health Podcast presented by Peace River Center and Southeastern University, Kirk and Tiffani share helpful tips to guide you through minding the basics for optimal mental wellness. 

24/7 Local Crisis Phone Line: 863.519.3744

24/7 Local Crisis Text Line: Text “TALK” to 863.204.3443

24/7 National Crisis Line: 988

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.