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.

Episode Summary:

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.

Key Takeaways:

• 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.

Notable Quotes:

• "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