Breaking the Stigma; Ending Silence, Creating Connection

TRIGGER WARNING: SUICIDE AND MENTAL HEALTH

In this powerful episode of Holding Space with Authentically Amy, Amy is joined by Lisa Sugarman, mental health advocate, crisis counselor, and founder of The Help Hub. September marks Suicide Prevention Month, and Lisa brings both her lived experience of suicide loss and her professional expertise to a conversation that is equal parts raw, healing, and hopeful.

Lisa shares her story of losing her father to suicide at age 10, only to discover the truth 35 years later, and how this painful revelation reshaped her grief journey. With three suicide losses in her life, she now dedicates her work to creating spaces of support and connection—from The Help Hub’s free mental health resources to her role with The Trevor Project and co-facilitation of the Safe Place support group for suicide loss survivors.

Together, Amy and Lisa explore:

• The unique layers of suicide grief, including guilt, blame, and silence
• The importance of crisis hotlines like 988 and The Trevor Project (866-488-7386), which are available to anyone in distress, not just those with suicidal thoughts
• Why open conversations about mental health reduce stigma and create ripple effects of healing
• How leaders, parents, and survivors can hold space for themselves and others
• Lisa’s upcoming memoir Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss and her new podcast The Calmary 15

This episode is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we are never alone, and that hope lives in safe spaces, shared stories, and human connection.

If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) or Trevor Project: 866-488-7386 (for LGBTQ+ youth), or visit www.TheHelpHUB.co

Email: [e-mail]

Website: https://www.TheHelpHUB.co

Facebook: facebook.com/thelisasugarman

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehelphubonyoutube

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehelphubontiktok

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehelphub.co

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lisa-sugarman-she-her-hers-16925b69/

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