The Just A Mom Podcast

Introduction: Welcome to a special episode of the "Just A Mom" podcast, where we kick off Season Five with a heartfelt and personal update. In today's episode, Susie is excited to be joined in the studio by a very special guest – her son, Will. As Susie expresses her joy at having Will home for the recording, the focus of this episode is centered around providing listeners with a detailed and intimate update on Will's life.
School Journey:
  • Will details his transition from Shenandoah Conservatory to Mid-American University, studying acting and directing, and anticipated graduation next year.
  • Will reflects on his time at TCU, the decision to transfer to Shenandoah, and the challenges he faced with anxiety and social circles.
Shenandoah Experience:
  • Will discusses feeling isolated and the impact on his mental health.
  • Will candidly opens up about his ongoing mental health struggles, highlighting that transferring to Shenandoah didn't eliminate the challenges.
Support and Intervention:
  • Susie intervenes after Will expresses depression, ensuring his safety and exploring therapy and medication adjustments.
  • Will's psychiatrist increases his dosage to address current circumstances, emphasizing the importance of medication adjustments.
Loneliness and Isolation:
  • Despite a busy schedule, Will shares his experience of loneliness, challenges with roommates, and feeling like an outsider.
  • Will discusses challenges in classes, rehearsals, and breaking into established relationships as a "freshman sophomore."
Emergency Visit:
  • Susie narrates the decision to fly Will home during a difficult month, emphasizing the difference between FaceTime and in-person observations.
  • Will contemplates alternatives to going back to school, expressing determination not to give up and considering job options.
Drive Back Home:
  • The 16.5-hour drive home reflects on Will's hesitation to return to Shenandoah, navigating a challenging storm, and the importance of being together.
  • Will shares positive aspects of the summer back home, acknowledging the internal struggle of giving college another try.
Decision to Return to Shenandoah:
  • Family discussions lead to the decision to encourage another try, emphasizing the importance of auditions and a new class.
  • Will gets callbacks for several shows at Shenandoah, receiving positive feedback from industry professional professors.
  • Susie praises Will's lead role as the only non-senior cast, highlighting his experience playing dark characters.
Challenges Faced:
  • Will reflect on challenges during the rehearsal and performance period, discussing the disconnect between personal values and the adaptation.
Closing Thoughts:
  • Susie summarizes Will's journey from struggles to returning to Shenandoah, teases upcoming episodes, and expresses gratitude for Will's openness.
  • Susie asks Will about mental health preparations, leading to discussions on counseling as a couple, premarital counseling, and planning.
  • Will discusses planning with fiancée Kayley, seeking advice from experienced couples, and staying flexible.
Therapy and Professional Support:
  • Susie emphasizes Will's ongoing medication and regular psychiatrist visits, recognizing the need for professional help.
  • Will discusses ongoing therapy with personal therapist Dana Dahl, encouraging everyone to benefit from therapy.
  • Will emphasizes the importance of being proactive and seeking support, acknowledging that mental health challenges require ongoing effort.
Support System:
  • Will describes reaching out to his wife, parents, and therapist if needed, emphasizing the importance of a united front.
  • Discussions highlight the reality of ups and downs in every marriage, with Will emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset.
  • Will seeks advice from experienced couples, recognizing their wisdom and acknowledging ongoing struggles with depression.
Acknowledging Personal Growth:
  • Despite ongoing challenges, Will acknowledges personal growth and positive changes, emphasizing the non-linear nature of the mental health journey.
  • Recap of "The Brightest It's Ever Been":
  • Susie recaps "The Brightest It's Ever Been," a play about anxiety, sharing its impact and plans for a regional tour.
Fundraising Opportunity:
  • A fundraising The Culture House link (designate Balladeer Theatre Company) is mentioned for supporting the regional tour, encouraging contributions from those interested in mental health and theater.
  • Susie shares her impact from the play, urging listeners to attend when it tours and acknowledging bias as the director.
Encouragement and Gratitude:
  • Susie expresses gratitude for Will's openness, encourages listeners, and emphasizes the non-linear nature of mental health journeys.
  • Susie mentions potential future updates from Will, thanks listeners for their support, and appreciates Will for the conversation.
  • Closing remarks express gratitude, anticipation for future episodes, and thanks to the listeners for their support.

Creators & Guests

Host
Susie Gurley
Susie shares the real stories of moms and dads who have walked the lonely, scary road of parenting a child with mental illness. You're not alone. There is hope.

What is The Just A Mom Podcast?

My name is Susie.  I have three children, the youngest of whom struggles with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. I never thought this could happen to me, and I missed the signs.  Being a parent is really hard, and I'm here to help! I'm talking to parents and experts to help you with the issues your kids may face.  I want you to know that you are not alone and there is hope.