For Maddie: Breaking the Silence Around Teen Depression
This takes you through the hidden battles of mental health that often go unnoticed, even by loved ones. This story explores the emotional journey of losing a child to depression and the powerful push for change to prevent similar tragedies. It's a call to look beyond appearances and advocate for better mental health support in our schools and communities.
Be Kind Like Maddie for World Kindness Day
In honour of World Kindness Day, I reflect on my daughter Maddie’s legacy of kindness. From helping a fellow student to welcoming new patients in a hospital ward, her small acts of compassion touched lives. Maddie showed us that kindness is the truest legacy, impacting others in ways we may never fully see. Today, I invite you all to "Be Like Maddie"—kind, selfless, and caring.
How My Viral Post Made My Mental Health Plummet
I shared a deeply personal post about my daughter on World Suicide Awareness Day, and it went viral. At first, the response felt amazing, but soon I found myself overwhelmed—caught in an emotional whirlwind I didn’t see coming. Going viral taught me a hard truth: even positive attention can take a toll on our mental health. Sometimes, protecting our peace means stepping back.
Maddie’s Legacy: Turning Pain into Purpose
"Losing Maddie to suicide was the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through. But over time, I’ve realized her story doesn’t end there. Her life, as short as it was, still has the power to make a difference. By sharing her story, I’ve seen families start conversations about mental health they had been avoiding, and even seen people find the courage to ask for help. That’s Maddie’s legacy—her light still shines.
We all have a role to play. By checking in on each other, listening without judgment, and talking openly about mental health, we can make a real difference. It’s in those small actions that we can create a world where no one feels alone.
Maddie’s legacy is bigger than me—it’s for everyone who’s been touched by her story. Together, we can keep her light going.
#MaddiesLegacy #MentalHealthMatters #YouAreNotAlone"
Reconsidering the Phrase 'Stay Strong': Why It's Not Always the Best Advice
Supporting someone through difficult times requires more than the common phrase "stay strong." Repressing emotions can be counterproductive, so it's essential to encourage expression and seek support. Rather than pressuring them, let them know you're there for them, they're not alone, and you're sorry for their struggle. Small expressions like a comforting hug can be more meaningful than advice. Be an amazing listener, showing care and understanding. Together, we can make a difference in someone's life.
A Father's Legacy: Honouring Maddie on Father's Day
Golfing with my sons, memories of Maddie filled our hearts. Her absence tugged at us, but her spirit bound us. This Father's Day, let's cherish loved ones, support those battling mental illness, and honour Maddie's enduring legacy. Love triumphs over darkness.
From Pain to Empowerment: How Your Story Can Heal and Inspire
Storytelling is a powerful tool for mental health. Sharing our stories can heal, reduce stress, boost self-esteem, and build empathy. It helps process difficult experiences and offers hope. By understanding its benefits and embracing our own narratives, we can find healing and connection
Breaking the Silence: One Entrepreneur's Battle with Depression
This heartfelt post recounts the author's struggles with devastating events, including a failed marriage, business challenges, and the tragic loss of their daughter to suicide. They candidly share their battle with depression and the transformative journey toward finding hope and purpose. The author discusses their initial reluctance and eventual decision to try anti-depressants, highlighting the medication's positive impact on their ability to function and regain focus. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they challenge the stigma surrounding mental health and advocate for seeking help, including medication, as a valuable tool in achieving and maintaining mental well-being.
Maddie's Legacy: Inspiring Change and Awareness
In loving memory of Maddie, we carry the weight of her absence every day. From cottage adventures to community support, we honour her spirit and continue the vital work of The Maddie Project, breaking the stigma around teen mental health. 🕊️💙