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This was probably our hardest episode to record yet.  For Stacee, this topic and story is deeply vulnerable, personal, painful and still tough to talk about.

In this episode Doug interviews both Stacee and friend and LPC Deanna James on the topic of cutting and self-harm.  Stacee has written a chapter in her book, You Are Worth Saving, on cutting, but this hour+ episode is the most in depth she has publicly spoken about her personal struggle with cutting and self-harm.  Along with Stacee's personal experience and insight, LPC Deanna James brings professional knowledge, insight and guidance for those who may struggle with self-harm and for parents, loved ones and friends of someone who struggles.  

In this episode, Stacee and Deanna help to bring light to the following topics and questions:

*Is there a connection between self-harm and suicide?

*Signs to look for that may indicate a loved one or friend is struggling with cutting or other forms of self-harm

*How to start a conversation with someone you care about who may be struggling with self-harm

*Why some turn to self-harm as part of their mental illness journey

*Creating boundaries and safe-guards for a child or loved-one who struggles with cutting or other forms of self-harm

*How someone struggling with hurting themselves can begin to find help and some steps they can begin to take even before meeting with a therapist

*Hope and encouragement for those facing this battle and for those who love them

We recognize this conversation and topic can be triggering for individuals struggling with self-harm,  Stacee and Deanna navigate their personal and professional experience with this struggle with honest and vulnerable conversation without providing graphic or triggering content.  Self-harm thrives in secrecy and shame, and its power is greatly weakened once it's brought into the light.  Hope and help are available and possible for those struggling with self-harm.

**For anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts or experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 for immediate help.

To learn more about Deanna and her practice, visit DeannaJamescounseling.com.

You can connect with Stacee and Doug and learn more their mental illness and recovery journey and their mission to bring hope to those struggling with mental health and to those who love and support them by visiting at www.speakoutloud.me