Linda Fisken – From Silence to Safe Spaces

“I’m in control of my mind. My mind’s not in control of me.”

In this raw and moving conversation Linda shares her journey through identity loss, marital breakdown, job loss, bereavement, severe mental illness and a planned suicide attempt.

What began as a gradual loss of confidence spiralled into overwhelming paranoia, intrusive thoughts and the terrifying sense that she was harming those she loved. After surviving a suicide attempt and spending time in psychiatric care, Linda slowly began to rebuild her life.

Determined that no woman should feel as alone as she once did, she founded Linda’s Ladies in Perth — a safe, non-judgemental support group where women can openly talk about their mental health.

Eight years on, Linda speaks with remarkable self-awareness and honesty about recovery, resilience, lived experience, and learning to take back control of her mind.

Key Takeaways:

1. Mental health can unravel quietly — even when life looks ‘perfect’.

Linda had what many would describe as the “ideal life” — family, home, career. But internal struggles don’t always match external appearances. Mental illness doesn’t discriminate, and it doesn’t need a visible reason.

2. Silence deepens suffering — connection saves lives.

When Linda became almost non-verbal, isolation intensified her distress. The power of being heard, validated and not judged can be life-changing. A safe space to talk is not a luxury — it’s vital.

3. Recovery isn’t about being ‘fixed’ — it’s about building tools.

Through lived experience, Linda learned that while others can support you, only you can rebuild your inner resilience. From visualising unhelpful thoughts floating away in a red balloon to reframing negative thinking, she developed her own mental health toolkit — and now helps other women build theirs.

If you want to contact Linda's Ladies join their Facebook group

If you need someone to talk to, you can text Mikeysline on 07786 20 77 55 or contact via messenger, webchat or X. Sun-Thurs 6pm-10pm & Fri-Sat 6pm-11pm.

Or come and visit at 4 Strothers Lane, Inverness IV1 1LR, Sun-Thurs 6pm-10pm & Fri-Sat 6pm-11pm.

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Speaking of Suicide hosting is supported by D and D Paving Ltd.

Speaking of Suicide is produced and presented by Adventurous Audio in Scotland