In this episode I’m joined by the incredible Ashling Thompson, a GAA camogie star with six All-Ireland titles and four All-Stars to her name. Ashling is one of the most accomplished athletes in the sport.

In this conversation, Ashling opens up about her journey, including hitting rock bottom at just 19, experiencing coercive control, losing a close friend to suicide, and captaining Cork to an All-Ireland victory just a year after facing these challenges. Ashling also shares her personal story of facing rock bottom again in 2019 after an incident on a night out, and how she picked herself up to play the best camogie of her career at 35.

This episode is a testament to Ashling’s unbreakable spirit. I left this conversation feeling on top of the world, and I’m sure you will too.

Trigger warning: Death by suicide, grief and coercive control.

[00:00:00] – Intro & childhood

[00:03:00] – First rock bottom

[00:06:00] – Abusive relationships

[00:10:00] – Substance use & control

[00:13:00] – Suicidal thoughts & escape

[00:16:00] – Recovery through sport

[00:19:00] – Partner’s suicide

[00:23:00] – Support from Frankie

[00:26:00] – Cork captaincy & media

[00:30:00] – Mental health advocacy

[00:34:00] – Second rock bottom

[00:38:00] – Acceptance & forgiveness

[00:41:00] – Social media break

[00:44:00] – Comeback & focus

[00:47:00] – Final reflections

If you’ve been affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode — including abuse, mental health struggles, or suicidal thoughts — please know you’re not alone.

You can reach out to Pieta for free, 24/7 support in Ireland:

📞 Call 1800 247 247

💬 Text HELP to 51444 (standard message rates apply)

🌐 Visit www.pieta.ie for more information

Pieta provides professional support for those in crisis and for anyone impacted by suicide.

Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits

Contact: [email protected]

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