Navigating the Storms: A Parent's Journey with Teen Depression and Suicide

I had the honor of sitting with Joe Haroldsen and hearing the tragic story of his beautiful daughter Emily. This is a very tender topic and I hope to be able to share this with sensitivity sacredness it deserves.

Navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence is challenging enough, but when you add mental health struggles into the mix, the journey becomes even more daunting. In a candid conversation with Joe, a father who bravely shared his family's journey through his daughter Emily's battle with depression and subsequent tragic loss, we uncover the raw realities of living through such a harrowing experience.

Signs and Struggles

From an early age, signs of anxiety emerged in Emily. Simple activities like attending church became a source of discomfort for her. Joe describes moments where Emily would anxiously rock back and forth, waiting for the ordeal to end so she could release pent-up energy. As she grew older, her struggles deepened, culminating in her battle with depression and multiple attempts to take her own life.

Seeking Help

Joe and his family sought help from various avenues, including counseling and medication. They tried mental health facilities, which provided temporary relief but were not the long-term solution they hoped for. Finding the right therapist proved crucial; Joe advises being picky about selecting a therapist who truly connects with the individual.

Family Dynamics

Joe's other children also grappled with their sister's struggles. They tried to offer support while navigating their own emotional journeys. The family's closeness was evident, as siblings tried to uplift Emily, engaging in activities like sledding and spending quality time together, even amidst the challenges.

Community Support

The neighborhood and church community rallied around Joe's family, providing love and support during their darkest times. Friends checked in on Emily, and neighbors acted swiftly when they sensed something was amiss. Their collective efforts underscored the importance of community in times of crisis.

Finding Strength in Faith

Joe found solace in his faith, relying on scriptures and prayers to help him through the darkest days. He believes that despite the pain, there's a plan and purpose behind every challenge. He draws strength from the knowledge that he'll reunite with Emily someday, embracing the hope that the future holds.

Moving Forward

While the pain of losing Emily remains, Joe and his family continue to find joy in their daily lives. They cherish moments spent together and celebrate small victories, leaning on each other for support.

Final Thoughts

Joe's story is a poignant reminder of the challenges many families face when dealing with mental health issues. It emphasizes the importance of seeking help, building strong community connections, and finding strength in faith during difficult times. To parents navigating similar challenges, Joe's advice is clear: find the right support, cherish the moments you have, and hold onto hope.

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Thank you for being here.

-Eric

A Journey of Resilience: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose with Ryan Di Lello

Today, I want to share with you a story of resilience, faith, and the power of never giving up. This is a story of a couple who faced unimaginable trials but emerged stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever.

-The Journey Begins

Around 2004-2005, our journey began with dance competitions. We were passionate, driven, and full of dreams. We were some of the top ranked dancers in the country. We were finalists on Dancing With the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance. We were on top of the word. Fast forward to 2013-2014, we settled in Utah, continuing our dance journey and exploring new opportunities.

-A Challenging Battle

Our lives took an unexpected turn when my wife's hips started giving her trouble. For a dancer and fitness enthusiast, this was devastating. Chronic pain consumed her, affecting not only her physical abilities but also her daily life.

After surgeries and consultations, the pain persisted, spreading through her body, leaving us with medical debt and a desperate search for answers. Despite the challenges, my wife's resilience shone brightly. She delved into neuroscience, studying pain science, determined to find a solution.

-Finding Hope in Neuroscience

My wife's dedication led her to develop a process called bio-emotional healing, which helped reduce her pain significantly. This process not only transformed her life but also became a beacon of hope for others struggling with chronic pain, PTSD, and anxiety.

-Financial Struggles and Emotional Toll

The road was not easy. We faced financial hardships, emotional struggles, and even strains in our relationship. We had to sell our house to cover medical expenses, and our intimacy suffered for years. As a husband, seeing my wife in pain and feeling helpless was heart-wrenching.

-Faith, Resilience, and Transformation

Amidst the darkness, we held onto our faith. We believed that there was a purpose behind our trials, and we were determined to find it. My wife's journey of healing and discovery became an inspiration, leading her to coach and speak on stages worldwide, sharing her insights on bio-emotional healing.

-Lessons Learned

Through this challenging journey, we learned the importance of resilience, faith, and the power of love. We discovered that trials can be opportunities for growth, shaping us into who we are meant to be.

-Final Thoughts

Life is unpredictable, filled with challenges and obstacles. However, it is also filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation. Our story is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the power of faith and love.

If you are facing challenges in your life right now, remember that you are not alone. Hold onto hope, believe in yourself, and trust that there is a purpose behind your trials. You have the strength within you to overcome, grow, and thrive.

Thank you for joining me on this journey of resilience and hope. May our story inspire you to embrace life's challenges with courage and faith.

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Stay Strong, Stay Resilient, God is Good!

Understanding Masculinity and Being a Man of God

In today's society, the concept of masculinity IS a confusing topic. It's often portrayed in various ways, sometimes everything and nothing at the same time. However, amidst the confusion, there's a profound truth that resonates deeply with those seeking clarity: masculinity is about purpose and selflessness.

Every single living moment of our lives, we are called to care for our families. This eternal truth resonates deeply when we consider what it means to be a man of God. But what does it truly mean to be a man of God in today's world? Let's delve into some key ideas discussed in a recent conversation that shed light on this question:

• Purposeful Living: Being a man of God is about living with purpose. It's about recognizing that our actions should be driven by a higher calling, a divine purpose that transcends our individual desires. When we live with purpose, we actively seek to build and maintain structures of safety and security for our loved ones and our community.

• Selflessness: True masculinity is marked by selflessness. It's about putting the needs of others before our own, sacrificing our comfort and desires for the well-being of those around us. Whether it's providing for our families, protecting our loved ones, or serving our community, selflessness lies at the heart of being a man of God.

• Seeking Truth: Masculinity is not about asserting dominance or power over others; rather, it's about seeking truth and embodying it in our lives. As men of God, we are called to seek wisdom and guidance from higher sources, to live in alignment with divine principles that uplift and empower those around us.

• Knowing Where You Stand: A key aspect of masculinity is knowing where you stand. It's about having a firm foundation rooted in faith and understanding. When we know where we stand in relation to our beliefs and values, we can navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity.

• Rites of Passage: In many cultures, rites of passage play a significant role in the transition from boyhood to manhood. These rituals often involve challenges and tests that help young men develop resilience, courage, and a sense of purpose. While modern society may lack formal rites of passage, the journey to manhood remains a profound and transformative experience.

• Embracing Vulnerability: True masculinity is not about suppressing emotions or putting up walls; rather, it's about embracing vulnerability and authenticity. As men of God, we are called to be open and honest about our struggles, seeking support and guidance from both our fellow men and our Creator.

• Legacy and Lineage: Being a man of God means recognizing the legacy and lineage we are a part of. It's about honoring the sacrifices and achievements of those who came before us and striving to leave a positive impact for future generations. By building upon the foundation laid by our ancestors, we contribute to the ongoing story of faith and resilience.
  

Being a man of God is about living with purpose, selflessness, and integrity. It's about seeking truth, embracing vulnerability, and knowing where you stand in relation to your beliefs and values. By embracing these principles, we can fulfill our divine calling to care for our families, serve our communities, and leave a lasting legacy of faith and love.

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Until next time, stay blessed and keep seeking truth.

-Eric