Let’s Unmask Mental Illness!
This is an authentic, uninhibited journey into my secret world–that I guess is not so secret now. I just want people to know that they are not alone and that there are people who do understand. I was able to hide everything so well that nobody ever saw the life of quiet desperation I was living. Trauma, Major Depression, PTSD, Anxiety Disorder, isolation, fear, stigma, suicide and the inability to communicate it with those I loved.
You are not alone.
I am not alone.
Book Back Cover
After almost committing suicide, I decided to start talking and keep talking. It’s a long story, all contained in my podcast and website–and now in this book.
After 51 years, I decided to stop living a life of quiet desperation. I decided to live it out loud, and maybe help others do the same. So, I keep talking and ask others to start listening.
I want to challenge the stigma surrounding mental health as I discuss my journey with authenticity and compassion. Depression, anxiety, PTSD and the effects of childhood trauma are so misunderstood, by both people struggling and their loved ones. I attempt to shed some light on the topics.
As I say in my podcast, I am not a psychologist, psychologist, therapist or any profession that ends in -ist. I am just a guy who has been there and may be there now. I’m still not doing it right, but I am finally on the right path.
You are welcome to follow along on my journey, walk in my shoes if you will.
Introduction to the Podcast
Putting a face with the voice. A short introduction video explaining a few things about me: the cap, aloha, and nakedness. No, there is no nudity in the video.
The Longer Introduction
Still trying to decide which one to use. Any help?
Follow the Podcast on Your Favorite App!
The First “First” Episode
The inspiration for my podcast came from another podcast where I was interviewed about my new book. Leo Flowers, host of “Before You Kill Yourself!,” knew the secret behind my book and jumped right in with the big reveal coming first. We discussed suicide, boundaries (or lack thereof), depression and few other issues. I think I mentioned my book once or twice. He threw me into the deep end of the pool and then jumped in and we did laps as we discussed mental health issues.
On the Lighter Side of Things
The podcast and column are where I dive into deeper topics, serious issues. But I continually step out, dry off, and enjoy life. I share that side of me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and my personal website. Have you ever read the meme about how not to pay attention to people’s lives on Facebook because they only post the good stuff? That’s not me. I post everything. Never politics or serious issues. The adventures and the misadventures and the stupid things I do that lead to the misadventures. I always say that you can say what you want about me –and people do– but you can’t say I’m not entertaining. You are welcome to follow along for the lighter side of things.
Gentler Insanities Anonymous 