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What happens when the darkest moment of your life becomes your greatest teacher? For Elaine Lindsay, losing her best friend to suicide at age 16 became what she calls "the best, worst gift" she ever received—a painful catalyst that eventually transformed her from a self-destructive teen into a powerful advocate for suicide prevention and mental health awareness.

In this profoundly moving conversation, Elaine reveals her journey from experiencing unexplained suicidal thoughts as a child to founding Suicide Zen Forgiveness decades later. With raw honesty, she shares how her friend Andrea's suicide in 1972 sent her spiraling into years of substance abuse and repeated suicide attempts, while paradoxically providing the very reason she ultimately chose to live. "Every time I got close," she explains, "Andrea was in my ear saying 'Do you remember how upset you were? Do you really want to do that to your family?'"

The discussion takes a powerful turn when addressing how we can better support young people struggling with mental health challenges. Elaine offers this memorable advice for parents trying to connect with their teens: "Put duct tape on your mouth and give them a sign saying 'I will listen.'" This wisdom resonates deeply throughout the episode as both host and guest explore how creating safe spaces for authentic communication can literally save lives in a world where technological and social changes are happening at unprecedented speeds.

Beyond the heaviness of the topic, Elaine shares practical strategies that have helped her survive her darkest days—from the simple act of taking a nap to reset emotional states, to practicing gratitude even when you can only be "grateful that you can say you're grateful." Her turquoise hair and self-proclaimed title of "Dark Pollyanna" reflect the unexpected light she brings to conversations about suicide, offering hope that pain can eventually become purpose.

Connect with Elaine at the links below if you're struggling or know someone who is. Remember, whatever you're experiencing is temporary—you can choose to get over what you've been under.

https://thedarkpollyanna.com/portfolio/

https://szf42.com/

https://elainelindsay.com/

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