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/

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HASF2020

Camo Hat Club: https://halfasorrow.org/the-camo-hat-club-half-a-sorrow/

View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bNErYV30LksTim's 2025 Second of the Day Video: https://vimeo.com/1151306034?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

Tim's Wife Amy: https://vimeo.com/1089717149?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

In this special episode of It's a Tough Subject, Dennis is joined by an unexpected guest, our producer Tim Cicciarelli, who steps out from behind the curtain to share his raw, honest grief journey after losing his wife, Amy, on May 26, 2025.

Tim and Dennis talk about love, loss, the "year of firsts," and what grief really looks like in real life: the fog, the triggers, the regrets, the rituals, and the moments of unexpected comfort. Tim shares the remarkable love story that brought him and Amy back together, how cancer reshaped their lives, and how he's learning to carry both grief and gratitude at the same time.

This conversation is a reminder that while this podcast began with suicide loss, it's ultimately about grief, mental health, healing, and connection for anyone navigating heartbreak.

Takeaways

• Grief is a universal experience that transcends specific circumstances.
• The journey of grief can be both brutal and beautiful.
• Shared stories of love and loss can foster connection and healing.
• Finding signs from lost loved ones can provide comfort.
• Music often serves as a powerful tool for processing grief.
• Creating memories through video can help preserve the essence of loved ones.
• Regret is a common part of the grieving process, but it can be managed.
• Community support is vital in navigating grief.
• Humor can coexist with grief, providing relief and connection.
• Gratitude for the time spent with loved ones can help in the healing process.

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/

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HASF2020

Camo Hat Club: https://halfasorrow.org/the-camo-hat-club-half-a-sorrow/

In this episode of It's a Tough Subject, Dennis and Jessica get real about something many of us feel but rarely say out loud: how exhausting, lonely, and triggering the holiday season can be—especially after a suicide loss.

They share candid stories about:

• The first holidays after losing a loved one to suicide

• How anniversaries, survivor day, and family dynamics can reopen old wounds

• Why sleep is one of the most underrated mental health tools

• Insomnia, 3 a.m. racing thoughts, and practical sleep tips (dark room, cold room, white noise, routines)

• The impact of social media, doomscrolling, and constant notifications on anxiety and depression

• Setting boundaries with the internet and creating healthier habits in 2026

• The Camo Hat Club – a men's group built around connection, breakfast, and NOT suffering in silence

• How to move from just surviving to actually thriving after loss

Through humor, honesty, and hard-won wisdom, Dennis and Jessica remind us that:

"You don't just want to be a survivor. You want to be a thriver."

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/

Dennis Gillan is a renowned advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. As a speaker and influencer in this field, Dennis shares his personal journey, aiming to impact audiences profoundly through storytelling and advocacy. He leads initiatives for mental health awareness and works with organizations and communities to foster supportive environments.

Jessica Seel is a passionate advocate for mental health education and awareness. With a focus on real-world impacts of digital trends on mental health, Jessica seeks to raise awareness and educate on suicide prevention. Her insights are shaped by personal experiences and a commitment to supporting individuals dealing with mental health challenges.

Welcome to Season 4 of "It's a Tough Subject" with hosts Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel. In this episode, they dive into one of the most pressing issues in digital mental health: the intersection of artificial intelligence and suicide prevention. With heartfelt discussions and personal anecdotes, Dennis and Jessica explore how AI and technology influence mental health trends, anxiety, social interactions, and suicide prevention strategies.

Dennis and Jessica discuss the growing use of AI in mental health matters, noting that millions are engaging with AI on issues of suicide. They reflect on the role of AI as both a helpful and potentially harmful tool, emphasizing the need for careful guidance and that interactions with AI should lead to real-world human connections. The duo debates the altering social dynamics in a tech-driven world and the importance of in-person gatherings for mental well-being, highlighting the roles of social networks and communal activities in fostering longevity and cognitive health.

• Impact of AI on Mental Health: Millions are using AI to discuss suicide weekly, reflecting a significant shift in how people seek help.

• The Importance of Social Interactions: Engaging with people in person remains crucial for mental well-being and can impact cognitive health.

• Balancing Technology Use: While AI offers substantial benefits for tasks and advice, it cannot replace the need for human emotional connections.

• The Challenge of Loneliness: Addressing loneliness is critical, and technology should drive rather than hinder human interaction.

• Encouraging In-person Engagements: Personal anecdotes highlight the value of going out, attending events, and not substituting screen time for social experiences.

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/

Please help this Josh Blandino help us by going here to donate: https://lnkd.in/e4gAQPy7 The goal is 5,000 dollars, and the marathon is Nov 9th. Let's help him out!

About the Hosts:

Dennis Gillan is a renowned speaker and advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. He uses his personal experience with losing family members to suicide to raise awareness and provide support for those affected by mental health issues. Dennis is involved with various mental health organizations and frequently travels for speaking engagements to help inspire change and promote mental wellness.

In this special intergenerational episode of "It's a Tough Subject," host Dennis Gillan converses with Josh Blandino, a young mental health advocate and marathon runner. This episode revolves around Josh's commitment to running a marathon to support mental health initiatives through Dennis Gillan's foundation. They discuss their common fraternity background, the importance of physical activity for mental well-being, and the inspiring story of Josh's journey from college to undertaking the grueling task of marathon running. This episode is a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and deep insights into mental health challenges and solutions.

Throughout the episode, keywords such as "mental health advocacy," "marathon training," and "suicide prevention" are discussed with attention to detail and compassion. Josh Blandino shares his experiences of organizing the Mental Health Mile at Clemson University and how endurance training for the marathon has been both a personal challenge and a source of inspiration. Dennis Gillan, a seasoned mental health speaker, shares insights into the intergenerational conversation around mental health and the impact of small, community-focused initiatives like the Mental Health Mile and Camo Hat Club breakfasts. Together, they emphasize how shared endeavors can amplify joy and halve sorrow for men and women struggling with mental health issues.

• Marathon for a Cause: Josh Blandino is running a marathon in the Outer Banks to raise funds for mental health initiatives, turning personal challenges into opportunities for philanthropy.

• Intergenerational Conversation: Dennis and Josh discuss common ground from fraternity life that shaped their approach toward mental advocacy and peer support systems.

• Physical Activity and Mental Health: They highlight the crucial role of exercise in releasing feel-good chemicals and enhancing mental well-being, mentioning that exercise could be equated to saving one's mental health if it were a pill.

• Gambling and Mental Health Risks: The impact of gambling, especially among young college students, and its potential mental health implications is addressed as a warning sign of larger issues.

• Community Support Systems: Concepts like the Camo Hat Club are introduced as significant community-driven support initiatives aiming to encourage men to open up about their mental health struggles.

• "There's a pharmacy within our bodies, and we have to work hard to release it." - Dennis Gillan

• "You learn a lot about yourself in that time period. You learn kind of what's important because you got to manage your time." – Josh Blandino

• "A shared joy is a double joy, and a shared sorrow is half a sorrow." - Dennis Gillan

• "This hat actually does have a deeper meaning." – Josh Blandino

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 is a renowned speaker and advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. He uses his personal experience with losing family members to suicide to raise awareness and provide support for those affected by mental health issues. Dennis is involved with various mental health organizations and frequently travels for speaking engagements to help inspire change and promote mental wellness.

Jessica Seel is an advocate for mental health and suicide prevention, drawing from personal experiences to connect with her audience. She has undergone extensive training and works actively in suicide prevention initiatives, particularly in South Carolina. Jessica brings a heartfelt perspective to discussions about grief and loss, offering insights into healing and resilience through shared experiences.

In this insightful episode of the "It's a Tough Subject" podcast, Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel navigate the sensitive and often stigmatized topics of suicide, mental health challenges, and societal influences. With mental health at the forefront, they delve into personal anecdotes and larger societal issues, seeking to unravel the impact of religion, politics, and social media on mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

As the conversation unfolds, Gillan and Seel discuss the complexities of maintaining faith-based outreach within a secular framework, revealing Gillan's internal struggle to balance his mission's inclusivity while remaining true to his personal beliefs. They explore how this delicate balance is necessary to offer support to individuals who may be distant from or critical of religious institutions. The impact of politics and the divisive role of social media is thoroughly examined, underscoring how misinformation and a lack of genuine connection contribute to mental health struggles.

• The importance of creating inclusive mental health support environments that respect diverse beliefs and perspectives.

• The detrimental impact of social media and misinformation on mental health, underlining the need for authentic human connections.

• Observations on the upswing in murder-suicide incidents, advocating for a deeper understanding of the psychological states behind such tragedies.

• The challenges and significance of discussing mental health issues within religious contexts and how faith-based organizations can responsibly engage in these conversations.

• The role of societal changes and decreasing church attendance in exacerbating feelings of isolation, affecting community health.

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 is a renowned speaker and advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. He uses his personal experience with losing family members to suicide to raise awareness and provide support for those affected by mental health issues. Dennis is involved with various mental health organizations and frequently travels for speaking engagements to help inspire change and promote mental wellness.

Jessica Seel is an advocate for mental health and suicide prevention, drawing from personal experiences to connect with her audience. She has undergone extensive training and works actively in suicide prevention initiatives, particularly in South Carolina. Jessica brings a heartfelt perspective to discussions about grief and loss, offering insights into healing and resilience through shared experiences.

Join hosts Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel as they delve into the complex and challenging subject of mental health, AI, and suicide prevention. This episode of "It's a Tough Subject" explores the concerning story of a family who tragically lost their son after he engaged in conversations with an AI platform, seeking it out as a therapeutic tool. Dennis and Jessica examine the implications of relying on AI for mental health support and discuss the dire need for more human interaction in such critical moments.

In this episode, the hosts underscore the limitations of artificial intelligence in providing therapeutic care. They share personal anecdotes and draw from professional experiences to emphasize the importance of human empathy in mental health care. Engaging keywords such as "suicide prevention," "AI ethics," and "mental health advocacy" are central to their discourse, capturing the essence of their passionate and informative conversation. Furthermore, Dennis and Jessica highlight the potential dangers posed by AI when misused by vulnerable individuals, urging listeners to prioritize human connections and professional guidance over digital solutions.

• The story of a family's tragic loss highlights the potential dangers of using AI as a substitute for genuine human interaction in mental health care.

• There is a critical shortage of mental health professionals, increasing the temptation to use AI as a therapeutic alternative, a move that Dennis and Jessica caution against.

• While AI can serve as a valuable productivity tool, relying on it for mental health support is flawed due to its lack of empathy and understanding.

• Emphasizing the importance of human connection, the hosts caution parents to monitor their children's interactions with AI platforms closely.

• The episode provides insights into how societal misconceptions about attention-seeking and mental health can be harmful and encourages a more compassionate approach.

1. "We're very direct and literal here with our grief… and we don't want to see another one happen ever again." - Dennis Gillan

2. "I think as we evolve with this technology, we're gonna see things… and there's a darkness to everything, right?" - Jessica Seel

3. "It's going to get worse before it gets better… But I feel like it should never take the place of a living, breathing human." - Jessica Seel

4. "Take them all serious, because the losses here are real. If you're wrong on this, like, you're wrong forever." - Dennis Gillan

5. "ChatGPT does not have feelings. Technology does not have feelings." - 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/

About the Guest(s):

Dennis Gillan is a renowned speaker and advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. He uses his personal experience with losing family members to suicide to raise awareness and provide support for those affected by mental health issues. Dennis is involved with various mental health organizations and frequently travels for speaking engagements to help inspire change and promote mental wellness.

Jessica Seel is an advocate for mental health and suicide prevention, drawing from personal experiences to connect with her audience. She has undergone extensive training and works actively in suicide prevention initiatives, particularly in South Carolina. Jessica brings a heartfelt perspective to discussions about grief and loss, offering insights into healing and resilience through shared experiences.

In this poignant episode, Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel navigate the complexities of grief and resilience, touching on personal experiences that shed light on broader societal issues. The discussion is both heart-wrenching and enlightening as they delve into the various forms grief can take, from losing a loved one to suicide to the emotional impact of a pet's passing. Recorded on September 12th, the timing coincides with the deeply significant Suicide Prevention Week and 9/11 memorials, providing a backdrop for a conversation about collective and personal bereavement.

Throughout the episode, Dennis and Jessica share personal anecdotes that underscore the significance of comprehending grief in its various manifestations. With keywords like "suicide prevention," "grief recovery," and "mental health advocacy," they explore the lingering effects of significant losses and the pathways to healing through community support and dialogue. They emphasize the power of vulnerability and connection, drawing from their experiences in public speaking and advocacy to foster an environment of empathy and understanding. As they reflect on current events and personal stories, listeners are encouraged to embrace open dialogues and human connection as vital tools in navigating life's most challenging moments.

• Grieving is a complex process that encompasses not only loss through suicide but any significant emotional separation, including the death of pets.

• Vulnerability in sharing personal stories can catalyze healing and inspire others to open up about their experiences.

• Events like 9/11 and public tragedies remind us of the need for empathy, unity, and respectful dialogues across differing opinions.

• Engaging in small acts of kindness and community support can bring about significant personal and societal healing.

• The strength found in community efforts showcases the positive impact collective action can have on mental health advocacy.

1. "It's a tough subject. We are back. And Jessica, I thought about renaming the show this week. It's a tough week." - Dennis Gillan

2. "Suicide is not the only grief. It's a hard, tough grief. But man, grief overall is so, so powerful to the soul." - Jessica Seel

3. "At the end of the day, we all love each other." - Dennis Gillan

4. "I wanted to decorate. My dad died in the fall. I used to hate fall. Now I love it." - Jessica Seel

5. "Hug somebody that thinks differently than you" - 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/

About the Hosts:

Dennis Gillan is a notable speaker and mental health advocate with a focus on suicide prevention. Having experienced the tragic loss of two brothers to suicide, Dennis has dedicated his life to spreading awareness and helping others navigate their grief journeys. He frequently speaks at conferences, universities, and community events, sharing his personal story and insights to uplift and educate audiences about mental health and the importance of reaching out.

Jessica Seel is an active mental health advocate and the president of a national board association. As a seasoned speaker, Jessica's work revolves around suicide prevention and community engagement. Having personally experienced loss through her father's suicide, she supports others by facilitating discussions around grief, mental health recovery, and postvention strategies. Her compassionate approach and emphasis on "hope" resonate through her efforts and public engagements in mental health awareness.

In this emotionally engaging episode of "It's a Tough Subject," co-hosts Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel open up about the complexities of grief and healing during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. They delve into the significance of memorials and the healing power they hold for those left behind. The conversation pivots on Dennis's upcoming keynote speech in Vail, Colorado, and Jessica's deeply personal reflection on her father's passing. Through these discussions, they highlight the importance of community-based efforts in suicide prevention and recovery.

The episode is filled with personal anecdotes and practical insights. Dennis and Jessica explore how participation in memorials and community walks can transform grief into a path of purpose and connection. They emphasize the need for support systems that extend beyond traditional gestures to truly impact the healing process for those mourning loved ones lost to suicide. Both hosts share their apprehensions and hopes surrounding their speaking engagements, tied intricately to the themes of hope and recovery. By sharing their stories, they aim to inspire others to open up and find light in isolation.

• Suicide Prevention and Recovery: Both co-hosts highlight the dual themes of suicide prevention and recovery for September, drawing attention to the community walks and memorials that serve as pillars of support.

• Personal Stories of Grief: Dennis and Jessica share their personal experiences of losing loved ones to suicide, shedding light on the profound journey of healing and the importance of community connections.

• Community-Based Healing: Emphasis is placed on the importance of active community roles in supporting those who are grieving, going beyond basic condolences to provide tangible support.

• The Role of Memorials: Memorials and walks are shown as crucial for processing grief, offering not only a way to remember loved ones but also to foster hope and collective healing.

• Public Speaking as Healing: Dennis discusses his upcoming speaking engagements and highlights the therapeutic nature of sharing one's story to help others navigate their grief journeys.

• "Isn't every month [suicide prevention awareness] when you think about it?" – Dennis Gillan

• "It's the club nobody wants to be in." – Dennis Gillan

• "It's not just to bring a casserole... there has to be more." – Jessica Seel

• "You learn from listening to people with different opinions, in my opinion." – Jessica Seel

• "I truly believe that would have at least had some impact on my brother's future." – 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/

Join hosts Dennis Gillan and Jessica Seel as they dive deep into pressing issues surrounding mental health and suicide prevention. Reflecting on recent travels and community interactions, Dennis shares personal milestones, including being awarded by Phi Sigma Kappa and his efforts to establish mental health awareness clubs across college campuses. Meanwhile, Jessica highlights the power of accountability and friendship through her personal fitness journey with a friend.

In this episode of "It's a Tough Subject," the duo tackles the powerful impact and necessity of postvention in suicide prevention, exploring their work with coroner associations and the importance of building support networks for those affected by suicide. The conversation shifts as they dissect cultural perceptions and stigmas associated with mental illness, challenging existing narratives in literature and media. Their discussion underscores the urgency of widespread education and community engagement to foster an environment receptive to open and honest conversations on these difficult topics.

• Dennis Gillan received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from his fraternity, Phi Sigma Kappa, for his impactful work in mental health advocacy.

• The Camouflage Hat Club initiative aims to promote mental wellness through simple, regular gatherings among men, combating isolation and fostering a supportive community.

• Jessica Seel shares a transformative experience supporting a friend overcoming addiction, illustrating the profound impact of regular, shared physical activities and open communication.

• Postvention strategies are crucial in suicide prevention, and effective survivor outreach can significantly reduce stigma while offering vital support to affected families.

• Raising awareness and altering public perceptions about suicide require community-level education and the dismantling of harmful stereotypes perpetuated through media and literature.

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/

Michelle Snyder is the Executive Director of Soul Shop, a global leader in faith-based suicide prevention. With a Master's in Divinity and a Master's in Social Work, Michelle is a trained therapist focused on aiding faith communities to address mental health and suicide prevention. Michelle is passionate about assisting churches to 'get it right' in their mission, inspired by both personal and professional experiences. Under her leadership, Soul Shop has grown significantly, boasting more than 120 trainers across the United States and internationally, including a notable presence in Africa.

In this compelling episode of the "It's a Tough Subject" podcast, host Dennis Gillan discusses the grave issues surrounding suicide and mental health within the faith community. The episode is anchored by guest Michelle Snyder, the Executive Director of Soul Shop, who shares the organization's mission of equipping faith leaders to foster soul-safe communities. The conversation highlights the critical role that churches and faith-based organizations can play in suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention.

Michelle elaborates on the unique Soul Shop training programs, designed to encourage faith-based leaders to engage openly with conversations about suicide and mental health. These programs focus on the power of compassion, outreach, and education in curbing mental health crises. Michelle provides invaluable insights into the significance of having leaders who are well-versed in suicide prevention, demographic-specific trainings for Black and Hispanic churches, and the need for congregational acknowledgment of mental health issues. The discussion underscores the idea that proactive church leadership can bridge gaps in mental health support and provide essential solace to individuals and families in distress, illustrating the encompassing role of faith in healing and community support.

• Comprehensive Training: Soul Shop offers specialized training programs aiming to prepare church and community leaders to effectively address suicide and mental health challenges.

• Faith as a Platform: Churches have the potential to become safe havens for nurturing hope and social connection, assisting those grappling with suicidal ideation and loss.

• Broader Approach: Addressing mental health involves tackling underlying issues, from substance abuse to financial struggles, with an emphasis on community support.

• Resource Enrichment: The hope boxes initiative provides comforting resources to families affected by suicide, an innovative approach by Soul Shop to support healing.

• Collaborative Engagement: Partnerships with various denominations and organizations reflect Soul Shop's dedication to engaging a wide network in the fight against mental health stigma.

• "If the Church of Jesus Christ can't do something about [suicide prevention], it should probably just close its doors."

• "Suicide is not a disease but a result of complex intersecting issues converging at once."

• "Our qualifications for this work are a little love, a little skill, and a network of support."

• "The grand vision is what if we could be a place where people could show up and say, I'm not okay."

• "What causes pain and desperation are legion, but when we can minister to those things, suicide begins to feel less like an option."

• Soul Shop Movement: soulshopmovement.org – The official website for Soul Shop, featuring information on their training programs and resources.

• Hope Boxes: Available through the Soul Shop Foundation, these boxes are resources for those who have experienced suicide loss.

Take some time to listen to this deeply moving episode on suicide prevention through faith communities. The insights shared by Michelle Snyder will leave you better prepared to engage with difficult conversations surrounding mental health and suicide prevention. Stay tuned for more valuable discussions on future episodes of the "It's a Tough Subject" podcast.