In this episode of Holding on to Hope, Frances shares her powerful journey of compassion, courage, and community. A former Lifeline crisis supporter, Frances found herself sitting beside a stranger in deep distress, offering comfort, presence, and hope. Through this unexpected encounter, she was reminded of the profound difference we can make when we choose to listen, care, and connect. Frances also reflects on her own family experiences, the importance of self-care, and the role each of us can play in building more compassionate communities.
At 49, Dominic’s world was shaken by a severe mental health crisis just as he was about to become a father. Overwhelmed by grief, past trauma, and thoughts of suicide, he turned to Lifeline, which these conversations became a vital source of comfort and connection when he needed it most. Through persistence, therapy, meditation, and the discipline of martial arts, Dominic rebuilt his life step by step. Today, he speaks openly about his journey, reminding us that while darkness can feel overwhelming, there is always a path forward.
As a teenager in a small country town, Jai felt isolated, unsure where to turn, and burdened by struggles that seemed too heavy to carry alone. One call to Lifeline changed everything - offering safety, validation, and the reminder that she wasn’t alone. From those early moments of reaching out in a phone box, through experiences of homelessness and hardship, Jai discovered resilience, the power of support, and the importance of creating her own toolkit for managing mental health.
In this episode of Holding on to Hope, entertainment journalist Jonathan Moran (JMo) opens up about his journey through life’s toughest moments and the practices that keep him grounded today. From growing up with challenges to embracing honesty, kindness, and self-care, JMo shares how he’s turned pain into purpose and why he proudly calls himself a warrior. His story is a reminder that even the smallest steps, being truthful with ourselves, finding joy in daily rituals, and giving ourselves grace, can create space for healing and hope.
In his early 20s, Annas began experiencing suicidal thoughts but didn’t know how to talk about them. Stigma around mental health in his community made it difficult to reach out, so he turned to Lifeline’s text crisis support line. That conversation became a turning point, offering him the space to express himself without fear of judgment.
Over time, Annas found support from his family, pursued therapy, and became an advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. Though he still faces challenges, he’s learned the power of connection and is here to share his journey from struggle to hope.
LINKS & RESOURCES
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Carla
Proudly presented by Lifeline
A special thanks to Nathida for sharing her story
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do
From a young age, Nathida struggled to find where she belonged. Moving to Australia from Thailand as a child, she faced cultural challenges and, without knowing she was autistic, felt isolated and misunderstood. With mental health a taboo topic in her culture, she battled suicidal thoughts alone until she reached out to Lifeline. That call became a turning point, offering her the support she needed.
Nathida is also part of the Inside Our Minds project. Each year, this initiative works with young people from traditionally underrepresented communities. In 2024, the project spotlighted seven courageous young people navigating mental health challenges and disability, and Nathida’s story is one of them.
Now diagnosed and better supported, Nathida manages her mental health with self-care, a strong support network, and advocacy. She’s here to share her journey, from struggle to hope.
LINKS & RESOURCES
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Carla
Proudly presented by Lifeline
A special thanks to Nathida for sharing her story
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do
In the first episode of the season, we meet Michael, whose early life was marked by neglect, abuse, and profound emotional pain. After hitting rock bottom following the end of a meaningful relationship, Michael made a life-saving call to Lifeline, a decision that sparked a journey of healing, connection, and rediscovery.
Michael speaks openly about growing up in a rural town where feelings were dismissed and silence was the norm, especially for men. But through therapy, supportive relationships, and creative outlets like writing and music, he began to transform his narrative from one of shame and survival to one of resilience and self-worth.
Now in a happy marriage and recording his first album, Michael shares how reaching out helped him rebuild his life. His story is a reminder that even when things feel darkest, there’s always a path forward, and that healing doesn’t have to happen alone.
LINKS & RESOURCES
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Carla
Proudly presented by Lifeline
A special thanks to Michael for sharing his story
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do
In this episode we're honoured to have Joanna as our guest, sharing her journey of resilience from teenage struggles with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts to finding hope and healing in her 50s.
Joanna's story began with challenges in her early teens, including the loss of her mother and own her battles with mental health issues. At 24, the suicide of her stepbrother was a turning point, leading her to seek support from Lifeline and professional help.
Reflecting on her experiences, Joanna credits Lifeline with saving her life multiple times and emphasises the importance of self-care in managing mental health. She now advocates for others, sharing her story to let them know they're not alone in their struggles.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Joanna for sharing her story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
In this episode we're honoured to introduce Andrew, a Yamatji Man from Western Australia's Murchison Gascoyne region.
Andrew has walked a challenging path, grappling with depression and anxiety for over a decade. He vividly describes his journey as having the 'black dog' visit him frequently, casting long shadows of despair and confusion. These dark clouds often obscured his sense of direction, leaving him unable to see a clear path forward.
In today's episode, Andrew will share insights into his coping strategies, the hurdles he has overcome, and the message of hope he carries for both Indigenous and Non-Indigenous communities.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Andrew for sharing his story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
On today’s episode we are joined by Paul. Paul is a resilient soul who embarked on a profound transformation after four decades of living behind a façade of "existences." Around 14 years ago, Paul's world collapsed, becoming the genesis of an ongoing journey of personal evolution. Despite battling a myriad of mental health and physical disabilities, including surviving a heart attack and grappling with recurring cardio issues, stroke, multiple bouts of cancer, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), and numerous other health conditions, Paul's determination to embrace life's trials and tribulations remains unyielding.
Each day, Paul bravely navigates his life, utilising his experiences to pave a path of enlightenment and advocacy. His mission is to normalize conversations around crucial yet often stigmatised topics such as Childhood Sexual Abuse, Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, Disabilities, and Chronic Health Conditions.
In today's episode, Paul shares his lived and living experiences, offering insights into the profound lessons learned through his journey. His resilience, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to advocacy serve as a beacon of hope for us all.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Paul for sharing his story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
Single mum Nicole was inspired to become a Lifeline crisis support worker after her own experience with suicidal ideation.
Having experienced an elongated battle with workplace bullying and victimisation after reporting a string of incidents of alleged sexual harassment and assault.
Nicole says she finds listening to people's pain and suffering and having the skills to connect with them on a deep level very healing and grounding.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Nicole for sharing her story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognize those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
On today's episode, we are joined by Grant on the 31st of October 1994. Grant took on what he thought was the biggest challenge of his life getting sober. Along his journey he learned the power of talking therapy, prioritising mental and emotional well-being and setting crystal clear boundaries. Little did he know all his work of self-discovery was the foundation he needed to carry himself through seven years of adversity with resilience and determination.
In 2010, life took an unexpected turn, divorce the loss of a father home and a significant physical transformation due to stress, reshaped everything. Sharing his story is a testament to the transformative power of adversity.
Grants aim is to inspire and motivate others for change.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Grant for sharing his story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
In today’s episode we are joined by Grace.
Grace’s journey, marked by the challenges of mental health, began with suicidal thoughts that emerged in childhood. Diagnosed with depression and anxiety during her teenage years, Grace's journey has been a testament to perseverance in the face of adversity.
Beyond her own struggles, Grace navigates life as a queer woman living with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), emphasising the importance of mental health intersectionality. Her advocacy extends to the critical understanding that mental health is multifaceted and interconnected with various aspects of one's life.
Her story is not just one of survival but of resilience, empowerment, and the unwavering belief in a brighter tomorrow.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Grace for sharing her story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
Matthew dedicated 24 years to his career. A sudden shift left him feeling discarded, leading to a dark moment during the intense pressures of the pandemic. Matt's journey, marked by hospitalisation and guilt, took a positive turn during a year off work.
Now, Matt is a mental health advocate, a trained Mental Health First Aider, working to promote well-being, especially in the workplace. His story is a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, there's a path to healing.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Tom for sharing her story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
In this episode we are joined by Martina.
As a cisgender lesbian, Australian Army veteran, and dedicated PhD Candidate, she thrives amid adversity, facing challenges of various kinds with unwavering determination. Her focus on human connection and social healing, born from personal struggles, resonates with those navigating life's difficulties or feeling different in an indifferent world.
Her journey involves overcoming trauma, workplace bullying, and surviving a near-fatal suicide attempt in 2013, which fuelled her commitment to building a life filled with strength and insight.
Despite occasional imposter syndrome, this self-proclaimed homebody cherishes quiet family moments and purposeful work-related travels, demonstrating humility and resilience.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Will for sharing his story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
In this episode, we are joined by Will, a 29-year-old electrician. Growing up in Eltham, a town northeast of Melbourne, Will had a fairly standard childhood. However, beneath the surface of normalcy lay a profound struggle that began at a young age.
At just five years old, Will's life was touched by tragedy when his cousin took his own life. This event, coupled with a lack of positive emotional role models in his life, led Will down a path where thoughts of suicide became familiar, almost normalised, responses to emotional distress.
In this conversation, Will shares about reaching out to Lifeline during moments of despair, the challenges of navigating relationships, and the stigma surrounding men's mental health.
Join us as we delve into Will's journey of resilience, self-discovery, and the ongoing pursuit of mental well-being in a world where seeking help is a sign of strength.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Will for sharing his story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
Meet Davina, a talented journalist and devoted mother of two daughters, Rose and Hope. On the surface, her life appears to be a compelling narrative of success, from a joyful childhood to becoming a respected news presenter for the Nine Network on both regional and national television. Yet, behind this facade of achievement, Davina grappled silently with a host of internal struggles.
Her journey took an unexpected turn when she became a mother, navigating the complex terrain of postnatal depression and the myriad challenges that accompany parenthood. While she excelled in her professional life, Davina found herself battling anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and an unrelenting pursuit of perfection in her personal life.
This episode delves into the highs and lows of Davina's journalism career, shedding light on the often-hidden struggles with mental health. Davina's story serves as a powerful reminder that reaching out for support is a testament to resilience and courage, offering hope and inspiration to others facing similar challenges.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Davina for sharing her story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
Maddie, who had a turning point in year 10 that led her to address cultural taboos surrounding mental health, shares her story. She went from seeking help to becoming an advocate through mental health seminars and university challenges. Maddie discusses her journey, the role of family support, and the importance of embracing imperfection in her transformation from a cheerful, happy-go-lucky girl to facing the challenges of adolescence.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Maddie for sharing her story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
In this episode, we're honoured to have Uncle Monwell, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander man, whose inspirational journey from personal hardships to talented musician embodies courage, hope, and a passion for change.
Uncle Monwell faced adversity, dealing with ADHD, PTSD, and self-harm in his early years. Growing up in a domestic violence environment, he learned the value of resilience and compassion.
Despite homelessness, struggles with substance abuse, gambling, and suicidal thoughts, Uncle Monwell's determination led him towards recovery and self-discovery.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Uncle Monwell for sharing his story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
At 27, Amanda was trapped in the pursuit of career success, leading to burnout and depression. Diagnosed with depression, she hit rock bottom and contemplated suicide, feeling isolated due to the stigma.
But Amanda didn't give up. Instead, she transformed from self-loathing to self-love. She discovered healing through mindfulness, meditation, and self-reflection.
Now, Amanda founded a mental health charity offering hope through peer support groups, workshops, and networking for those battling mental health issues.
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14
Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114
Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au
Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram
Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter
Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook
CREDITS
Hosted by Ruben
Proudly presented by Lifeline
Special thanks to Amanda for sharing her story.
Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.
