134. How to Use Positive Psychology to Navigate Your Darkest Days with Niyc Pidgeon

Trigger Warning: While the topic of suicide prevention is heavy, this conversation reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is a path forward. My guest, Niyc Pidgeon, is a positive psychologist and author of One More Day. After facing her own mental health battles and losing three close friends to suicide, her understanding of trauma and compassion runs deep. Through her work, she empowers others with tools to navigate hard moments and aims to help a billion people become more mentally healthy.

In this episode, Niyc shares warning signs that someone may be struggling and offers guidance on how to support them. She highlights the power of small actions, like taking one more breath or splashing cold water on your face, to create a shift when overwhelmed. Her focus on daily check-ins and preventative care emphasizes the importance of connection before a crisis hits. Niyc’s perspective is heartbreaking yet hopeful, offering actionable tools for finding strength when it feels like there’s none left. If you’re struggling or know someone who is, let this conversation remind you: This too shall pass. You are not alone. Let’s show up for each other, one small step at a time.

(00:00:00) Introductions

(00:04:21) The Pact: Honoring Niyc’s Friends Lost to Suicide

(00:11:51) Small Tools for Positive Shifts in Your Day

(00:17:47) Warning Signs of Mental Struggles & What Helps Most

(00:27:11) Processing Survivor’s Guilt & Turning Pain to Purpose

Click here for full show notes

Guest Info:

• Website: niyc.com

• Instagram: @niycpidge

• Read: One More Day by Niyc Pidgeon

Resources:

• Read: The Big Silence: A Daughter's Memoir of Mental Illness and Healing

• Therapy For All: Resources for those in need

• If you or a loved one are struggling right now or are in crisis call or text 988 for the suicide prevention hotline: Mental Health Resources

Donate to The Big Silence thebigsilence.com/donate to be a part of the movement to break the silence and make noise with us!

“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.

Producer, Bobby Goldstein.

The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.

Mentioned in this episode:

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