The Healing Power of Community

In this episode of The Stories That Sparkle, Mandy shares about the devastating loss of her mom, the need to confront her own anger in order to move through her grief, and the healing power of a community that never stopped showing up. Mandy is one of the most exuberantly loving people I know, and a woman who knows how to hold space when you’re struggling.

I want to give you a brief content warning for discussion of mental illness, depression and suicide including the description of finding a loved one who has chosen to take their own life.

Please care of yourself, and, if needed, skip listening to this episode. And, if you or a loved one are struggling with depression, mental health issues, or suicidal thoughts, please know that you are not alone and that there are resources available to you for help. I have included some of those in the show notes. Of course, you can always reach out to me: [e-mail] and I will do my best to connect you with the help you may want or need.

Mandy carries a lot of love, hope and joy, so I invite you to get comfortable, sit back, and listen in.

Resources:

988 Lifeline (use link for ways to connect by chat, email, text or phone, and other resources)

To call, 24/7, simply dial: 988

"At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life's challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you're facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone."

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (if you are a loss survivor, use this link to connect to support)

"You are not alone. Suicide affects millions each year, and thanks to our donors and volunteers—many of whom are loss survivors themselves—we can provide these resources to help you heal. AFSP offers many programs and resources to support loss survivors. Additional external resources can be found by visiting our Suicide loss resources page."

Concern Hotline (use this link for local resource in Winchester, VA)

540-667-0145

"Our mission is to comfort, calm, and assist those in need by providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services through compassionate listening and empathetic support via trained volunteers on a 24-hour hotline."

NAMI Helpline (use link for ways to connect by chat, email, text or phone for mental health resources)

1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

"The NAMI HelpLine is a free, confidential nationwide service that provides one-on-one emotional support, mental health information and resources needed to tackle tough challenges that you, your family or friends are facing. Or, you can look through our self-help online resources below to find your answers."

I am so grateful that I get to amplify women’s voices, stories and choices. Please help me get the word out: share the podcast with two people you know and subscribe to my Substack.

Thank you!

All the Links: LinkTree

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