Paul Gilmartin
Paul Gilmartin
#773 Poverty, Loneliness & Low Self-Esteem - Derek
#773 Poverty, Loneliness & Low Self-Esteem - Derek
#773 Poverty, Loneliness & Low Self-Esteem - Derek
Friday 7th November 2025
Join Derek as he shares his journey from poverty and loneliness to self-discovery and healthier relationships.
Explicit
84 minutes
Honest
Raw
Inspiring
Hopeful
Engaging
About this podcast
Author:
Paul Gilmartin
Overview:
Categories:
Body & Mind
Sobriety Toolkit
Healing from Sexual Trauma
Healing Relationships
Financial Health in Recovery
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
675 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Finding Strength Amidst Chaos: Derek's Journey
Episode Overview
- Recognise toxic patterns within yourself.
- Importance of setting personal boundaries.
- Finding connection despite past isolation.
- Understanding attraction to unhealthy relationships.
- The ongoing journey of self-acceptance.
"I was the one that opened the door. I was the one that let it happen."
How do people find hope in the darkest times? In this compelling episode of the Mental Illness Happy Hour, Paul Gilmartin sits down with Derek, a fellow support group member, to share an emotional journey from poverty and isolation to finding connection and setting boundaries. Derek opens up about his childhood struggles with extreme poverty and an unstable family life, painting a vivid picture of the chaos he navigated growing up.
Despite the odds, he managed to find moments of joy and connection in high school, which became pivotal in his path to self-discovery. Derek candidly discusses his ongoing battle with low self-esteem and the complex dynamics of relationships where he finds himself attracted to women who don't treat him well. His introspection reveals a pattern of seeking validation and being caught in toxic cycles, something many listeners might resonate with.
Paul and Derek explore the importance of owning one's behaviour and the power of recognising toxic patterns not just in others, but within oneself. This episode is a raw and honest conversation about personal growth, the challenges of setting boundaries, and the ongoing journey of self-acceptance. Derek's story is a testament to resilience and the courage it takes to face one's demons while striving for healthier relationships.
As you listen, you'll find yourself reflecting on your own life—what are the boundaries you need to set, and how can you start valuing yourself more?