Surviving Suicide: Sarah Gilman on Self-Harm, Healing & Hope | Harder to Breathe Podcast

In one of our most powerful episodes yet, actress and mental health advocate Sarah Gilman opens up about her deeply personal journey—self-harm, a suicide attempt in college, and the remarkable path that led her to become a voice for suicide prevention. She explains why suicide isn't about wanting to die, but about wanting to escape an intolerable
pain.

This is a raw and honest conversation that will leave you feeling seen, understood, and inspired.

Here's what you'll learn:

✨ The misunderstood functions of self-harm — Sarah shares the three core reasons people self-harm: as a coping mechanism, for manipulation, and as self-punishment.

✨ Why we fear talking about suicide — We break down the myth that asking about suicide puts the idea in someone's head, and why opening the door can be lifesaving.

✨ The right way to offer support — What to say (and what not to say) to someone who's struggling, and why empathy matters more than trying to "fix" things.

✨ Hope in the darkest moments — Sarah shares the incredible story of a sign that changed her life and led her to her advocacy work with Didi Hirsch.

This conversation is a testament to the power of vulnerability and a reminder that—even in your darkest moments—you are not alone.

📌 Episode Guide
00:00 – Intro
13:15 – A Trigger Warning for Today's Conversation
16:10 – Interview Begins: Meet Sarah Gilman
28:28 – The Path to a Mental Health Decline
35:08 – An Honest Look at Self-Harm
49:10 – HIGHLIGHT: The Stigma and the Cry for Help
1:00:10 – What NOT to Say to Someone Who Is Hurting
1:06:15 – How Understanding Your Brain Can Save Your Life
1:11:30 – The Suicide Attempt: "I Didn't Want to Die"
1:17:27 – "The Sign": Finding Didi Hirsch
1:24:40 – The Origin of the First Suicide Prevention Center

⚠️ If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please call or text 988. Help is available 24/7.

🎧 Listen now:
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Or wherever you get your podcasts

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