Suicide Awareness and Coping with Depression: Real Stories That Save Lives

Is there hope after a suicide attempt?

In this powerful Suicide Prevention Month episode, you’ll hear from people who stood at the very edge of life — convinced they were a burden, that things would never get better, that suicide was their only escape. And yet, today, they’re alive to share their truth: life can change, recovery is possible, and hope is real.

These lived-experience voices expose depression for the liar it is, challenge the stigma that keeps so many silent, and remind us that suicide doesn’t end pain — it ends possibility.

You’ll also learn about the Columbia Protocol (C-SSRS), a suicide risk assessment tool endorsed by the CDC and WHO, with simple questions that can help save a life.

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to stand on the edge, or if you’re searching for reasons to keep going, this episode is a lifeline.

Link to Columbia Protocol Questionnaire: https://cssrs.columbia.edu/the-columbia-scale-c-ssrs/cssrs-for-families-friends-and-neighbors/

Primary Topics Covered:

• Why direct questions about suicide matter
• The Columbia Protocol (C-SSRS) and how to use it
• Misconceptions and stigma around suicide and depression
• Stories of people who nearly died — and why they’re glad they survived
• The lies depression tells vs. the reality of recovery
• How faith, therapy, medication, and community play a role in healing
• Messages of hope from survivors: “It doesn’t have to be this way”
• Why speaking up, listening, and connection can save lives

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro — framing Suicide Prevention Month
 01:10 Why direct language about suicide is essential
 02:00 The Columbia Protocol (C-SSRS) explained
 03:30 Voices from the edge: lived experiences of suicidal thinking
 04:33 Misconceptions and stigma that keep people from seeking help
 06:30 How depression lies: “you’re not enough”
 08:13 The irrational logic of suicidal thoughts
 09:47 Stories of attempts and realizations that life was still worth living
 12:08 Medication, therapy, and healing beyond coping
 13:26 Messages to past selves: “you are not a failure”
 15:30 Why survivors are glad they’re alive — family, milestones, joy
 17:39 Building strength by admitting weakness and seeking support
 19:30 Closing reflections: hope is real, share this episode during Suicide Prevention Month

Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.com
Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/
Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/