Frank King: Using Laughter to Break Mental Health Stigmas
I want to make it as easy as talking about sports and the weather, it should be absolutely all right.
Ever thought humor could be a bridge to understanding mental health? In this compelling episode of 'Small Town Sober', host Seriously Sober sits down with Frank King, the mental health comedian. With five TED talks under his belt and a reputation as a Suicide Prevention Speaker and TEDx Coach, Frank brings a unique blend of comedy and candidness to heavy topics like mental health, suicide prevention, and substance abuse.
Frank opens up about his own battles with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. He doesn't just talk the talk; he walks you through his personal experiences, making the conversation relatable and real. You'll hear about the 'three legs of the suicidality stool': burdensomeness, isolation, and hopelessness, and learn how to spot warning signs in yourself or loved ones. But it's not all grim.
Frank's humor shines through as he discusses his journey with bipolar disorder and Tourette's syndrome, showing how comedy has been a lifeline for him and many others. He argues that talking about mental health should be as casual as chatting about the weather or last night's game. This episode is more than just a conversation; it's a call to action. Frank's message is clear: we need to shatter the stigma around mental health.
So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and get ready for a discussion that's as enlightening as it is entertaining. Whether you're personally affected by these issues or want to support someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights and a fresh perspective.