Overcoming the Darkness: Navigating Depression, PTSD, and Mental Wellness

A Journey to Healing and Hope

Life often throws us into a storm we never expected, and it's in these moments that we discover the depth of our resilience and the power of healing. In the latest episode of the Radiate Health and Wellness Podcast, I had the profound opportunity to sit down with Eric Bailey D.D. A guest who bravely shared his journey through the often misunderstood and stigmatized world of mental health. His story is one of pain, loss, and ultimately, a deep commitment to helping others navigate their darkest days.

A Personal Journey Through Mental Wellness

Eric's story begins with a harrowing experience—one that left him literally paralyzed from head to toe. This wasn't due to any physical or neurological condition; it was purely the result of overwhelming mental and emotional trauma. Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and stress were not just passing phases but crippling realities that he faced every day. This experience, as terrifying as it was, ignited a passion within him to explore mental health more deeply and to develop tools and strategies that could help others who are struggling.

Through years of learning, certifying in different techniques, and working with people worldwide, Eric has been able to create a space where mental and emotional wellness can be nurtured and strengthened. His story is a testament to the fact that no matter how dark the night, there is always a glimmer of light that can guide us through.

The Impact of Suicide on Mental Health

One of the most heart-wrenching aspects of our conversation was when I shared about the tragic loss of my brother to suicide. This devastating event touched Eric's heart and led him to share the story of his biological mother, who took her own life. The shock of receiving that news from his sister is something that will stay with him forever. It’s a pain that resonates deeply with anyone who has lost a loved one in such a tragic way. This experience not only deepened his understanding of mental health but also fueled his determination to prevent others from reaching that point of despair. The pain of losing a loved one to suicide is indescribable—a heavy burden that they carry every day.

In our conversation, we delved into the road signs that can indicate someone is heading down a dangerous path and discussed ways to intervene before it’s too late. The goal is not just to recognize these signs but to offer support in a way that can truly make a difference.

Understanding the Stages of Depression

Depression is often misunderstood, and many people only associate it with its most severe forms. However, as my guest explained, depression can manifest in six unique stages, each with its own thought patterns, feelings, and hormonal imbalances. It’s a spectrum that ranges from the numbness of stage one, where suicidal thoughts are most common, to the more subtle stages where a person may seem happy but isn’t truly experiencing joy.

The idea that depression is any stage of happiness that isn’t pure bliss is a powerful one. It challenges us to rethink how we view mental health and to recognize that even those who seem okay may still be struggling. It’s a reminder that we need to be more compassionate, both to ourselves and to others.

Practical Steps for Healing and Support

One of the most valuable takeaways from our conversation was the practical advice on how to support someone who is in the depths of depression. Often, those in stage one of depression lack the motivation to even care about their situation, making it difficult for loved ones to help. My guest shared a unique approach: validating what the person is feeling and making things as easy as possible for them.

Whether it’s standing up and throwing an “adult temper tantrum” to express what they’re feeling or simply helping them get out of bed and walk around the house, these small actions can make a big difference. It’s about removing the guesswork and offering gentle, non-judgmental support.

For those in stage two, where the pain is more acute, the focus shifts to passive nurture—small acts of self-care that remind the person that they are worthy of love and care, even if it feels like no one else is there for them. Whether it’s taking a warm bath, putting on a cozy robe, or watching a funny movie, these acts can help lift the person out of their deep sadness and start the healing process.

The Importance of Patience and Compassion

As we wrapped up our discussion, Eric shared a powerful analogy: the bathroom key. Imagine being on a road trip and being handed a bathroom key by an overly enthusiastic attendant, even if you don’t need to go. This is often how people in the healing space approach those who are struggling—they want to share their newfound knowledge and healing so badly that they might push too hard, too soon.

But healing is a personal journey, and it happens at its own pace. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is to simply be there, offering our support without trying to force a solution. It’s about giving people the time and space they need to find their own way out of the darkness.

You are NOT ALONE

This episode is a personal and emotional conversation. It’s a stark reminder that mental health struggles are real, and they touch more lives than we might realize. But it’s also a message of hope. No matter how deep the darkness, there is always a way forward.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental wellness, help is just a text away. Set up a free mental wellness session with a professional practitioner by texting "HELP" to 801-636-2470. Additionally, you can email Eric at FeelWellLiveWell.com to receive free copies of his insightful books: "The Underdepressed Heart, a Mommy's Guide Up and Out of Depression" and "Being Unhappy Sucks, Stop It!". These resources are invaluable tools for anyone looking to better understand and overcome the challenges of depression.

Please know that you are not alone. Reach out, seek help, and remember that healing is possible. Together, we can create a world where mental wellness is nurtured and supported, and where everyone has the opportunity to live a life filled with joy and connection.

Don't miss out on the full conversation with Eric Bailey D.D., where he shares his deeply personal journey through mental health challenges and offers practical advice on supporting those in need. Tune in to the Radiate Health and Wellness Podcast Episode, Overcoming Darkness, on YouTube or SPOTIFY. It's an episode filled with hope, resilience, and valuable insights that you won't want to miss!