Episode 32: Suicidal Thoughts - A Siblings’ Perspective

Written By Alli Louthain

At the age of 14, Bryn Evans lost her 17 year old brother to suicide.  Bryn is now an incredible  17 year old senior herself and shares with us today her story of healing and hope.

What you will learn from this podcast:

  • Luke, a talented musician with an adventurous easy going spirit took care of his little sister, loved his family and lost his battle with mental illness the fall of his senior year.

  • Everyone goes through the grief process in a different order.

  • It's easier to be numb than to feel the grief; things may get harder not easier as time passes.

  • Self awareness is essential to moving through emotions.

  • It's important to allow yourself to feel the emotions, sit in that space as long as you need to and ask for help when you are feeling stuck.

  • Feeling like you've been robbed of your teen years and feeling bitter or angry towards the person who is deceased doesn't diminish your love for them, nor do you need to feel guilty for moving through those emotions.

  • You need a safe space to heal.

  • You need emotional and physical outlets to let emotions flow through you.

  • Yoga offers a safe space to feel the feels and move through the grief as you connect body, mind and soul.

  • Don't compare your journey to others.

  • Grief looks differently for different ages and how they are related to the deceased.

  • Regardless of the age; talking about what happened helps the healing process.

  • CARVE OUT TIME TO REMIND YOURSELF HOW STRONG YOU ARE & HOW PROUD OF YOURSELF YOU ARE.

  • Surround yourself with people who care about you & find sources of strength.

  • God reaches you wherever you are at.

  • Remember you are a CREATOR & possess unique talents that bless.

  • There's nothing you can do to change the past.

  • It's important to make a conscious choice not to feel guilty about the what if's...

  • EVEN SHATTERED LIVES CAN BE TURNED INTO A MOSAIC OF NEW BEAUTY.

  • Jesus helps take shattered pieces and makes them into something beautiful.

  • Our pain and experiences give us greater capacity for empathy and compassion.

  • SHOW UP FOR OTHERS.

  • FOLLOW THE PEACE.

Alli Louthain
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Episode 33: Not Alone
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Episode 31: Suicidal Thoughts- A Social Workers’ Perspective