Parenting on Empty: When Your Child’s Pain Becomes Your Own
Parenting a child with mental health struggles is an invisible weight many parents carry in silence. Sleepless nights, endless worry, and guilt take a toll, leaving you feeling like you’re parenting on empty. Life doesn’t pause, but neither should your self-care. This is a reminder: you’re not alone, and even small steps forward can create light in the darkness, for you and your child.
Normal and Me? We Stopped Living Together Years Ago
"Normal and Me? We Stopped Living Together Years Ago" chronicles the twists and turns of life after a business loss, monumental changes and career shifts—culminating in the devastating loss of my daughter, Maddie. Through the chaos and heartbreak, I’ve found resilience, purpose, and a renewed sense of direction. My boys are thriving, and I’m in a relationship that lifts me up. I’m now leaning fully into a purpose-driven life, dedicated to building a kinder, more compassionate world in honour of my kids.
It Doesn’t Need to be Weird: 5 Empathetic Ways to Support a Grieving Friend
Supporting someone who’s grieving can feel awkward and challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether it’s a loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a dream, the best support is simple, sincere, and compassionate. Sometimes, all it takes is listening without fixing, offering specific help, or just being present. Let’s make showing up easier and more meaningful for those going through tough times.
What If You Could Be the Reason Someone Chose to Live?
Imagine if a small act of kindness or a moment of listening could be the reason someone chooses to keep going. This simple but powerful idea reminds us that we each hold the potential to be a lifeline for someone struggling silently. You don’t need to be a mental health expert—just show up, check in, and let people know they’re not alone. A tiny gesture might just save a life.
When You’re Searching for Answers at 3 AM, I Understand
When parents find my blog, I see their journey through the posts they read—an urgent search for hope and understanding in the face of their child's struggles. It's not just about answers; it's about feeling seen, less alone in their pain. I write for them—to share my story, to fight for change, and to remind them they're not alone in this battle. Let’s make mental health a priority. #MaddiesStory #YouAreNotAlone #EndTeenSuicide
How Children Navigate the Sudden Loss of a Sibling
Navigating the sudden loss of a sibling is a heartbreaking and complex journey for children. This blog explores how kids process such overwhelming grief, often in ways that aren't visible to adults. By acknowledging their unique emotional needs and providing compassionate support, we can help children heal and honour their sibling’s memory. Learn how to be there when words aren’t enough.
From Grief to Growth: A Journey of Healing
In this heartfelt and introspective piece, the author shares their ongoing journey of grief and resilience after the tragic loss of their daughter, Madeline. With honesty and vulnerability, they express the complexity of emotions and the lasting impact of memories. The author explores the support received from friends, family, and strangers, highlighting the power of social media in raising awareness about mental illness. They also emphasize the importance of seeking help and breaking down barriers in accessing mental health resources. Through their writing, the author pays tribute to Madeline's enduring legacy and finds solace in turning pain into purpose.
I Still Have Dark Days, But Now They Empower Me
Twelve years ago, I shared my mental health journey for the first time, and I was overwhelmed by the support that followed. What started as a nervous step into the unknown became a mission to keep speaking up, even as life tested me in ways I never could have imagined. Some may tire of the topic, but as long as the messages keep coming, I’ll keep sharing. We all have a story worth telling, and I hope mine encourages others to share theirs too. #MentalHealth #Growth #Resilience #KeepGoing #Support
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.
The High Price of Likes: Unveiling the Toll of Social Media on Youth Mental Health
Amidst addressing youth mental health, we must ponder if discussing suicide openly inadvertently glamorizes it, especially via social media. We need vigilant parenting, open conversations, and initiatives like the Hopeful Horizons Fund to ensure a safer future for our children.
Transforming Pain into Purpose: A Journey of Love, Loss, and Inspiring Change
Experience the raw emotions of grief and loss as one parent shares their ongoing journey after the tragic death of their daughter, Madeline. Discover the power of community support, fundraising initiatives, and the impact of The Maddie Project in raising awareness for youth mental health. Explore the transformative effects of pain and how it fuels resolve and purpose in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Join the conversation surrounding mental health, suicide prevention, and the pursuit of healing. #GriefandLoss #MentalHealthAwareness #SuicideSurvivor #CommunitySupport #HealingJourney #MaddieProject #YouthMentalHealth #FundraisingInitiatives #PhillipsHouse #ResolveandPurpose.
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. 🕊️💙