Taking a break from the screenwriting world for a second to talk about an important and all-too common issue. The holiday season is for some the most joyful, fun and carefree time of year. For others, the holiday season can be a genuine struggle with depression, addiction and suicidal tendencies. The battle for mental health is one of the biggest and most important challenges of anyone’s life. Yet far too often we feel helpless to fight our own demons or don’t know how to help loved ones with their torment.

I’m joined by Elizabeth Lombino. In addition to being my friend for 30 plus years, Elizabeth is a licensed clinical social worker and writer on the subject of depression. In this interview, she goes over some of the why’s and how’s of why the holidays can be so hard. We also talk about real, practical ways one can help themselves and how you can you help others. There’s no clear cut answer to these very real dangers people struggle with – but there are ways to help. I hope this insightful interview offers some light in the storm to those who may need it:

For those who need who help or want to help those in danger of suicide, don’t hesitate call this number:

1-800-273-TALK:

For more on the suicide prevention hotline:

http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

For more on Elizabeth and her writings:

http://elizabethlombino.com/

Elizabeth’s Suicide Is Not A Choice piece:

http://elizabethlombino.com/2014/08/12/suicide-is-not-a-choice/

My own thoughts on mental illness and suicide:

https://handsometimmydexpress.com/2014/08/13/the-crazy-ones/

The Handsome Timmy D Express is proud to be a part of:

The Dan & Travis Show Podcast: An Awesome Thing

http://thedanandtravisshow.libsyn.com/

and 

The Chronic Rift: A series of podcasts that attempt to “find the culture in pop culture.”

http://www.chronicrift.com/