In this impactful episode of Surviving Parenthood: Neurodivergent Edition, Vida sits down with Jon Foote, high school English teacher, parent, and mental health advocate, for a raw and relatable conversation about therapy, depression, and the power of taking proactive steps toward healing.

Together, they unpack the challenges neurodivergent individuals face when seeking support, the importance of mental health education, and why even the smallest proactive action can be transformative during depressive episodes. Jon shares his personal experiences with therapy, loneliness, and motivation, offering insight into how hope—no matter how elusive—can be the anchor that pulls us forward.

This episode is a reassuring reminder that therapy is worth the investment, knowledge is power, and reaching out for help can change everything.

Takeaways

• Therapy is consistently worth the emotional and financial investment.
• Knowledge empowers neurodivergent individuals to better understand themselves.
• Being proactive is crucial—especially during depression when motivation is low.
• Finding the energy to take action can feel impossible, but small steps matter.
• Hope is a powerful motivator, even when it feels out of reach.
• Believing in your ability to improve is essential to mental wellness.
• Therapy offers structure, insight, and validation that many neurodivergent adults were never given.

Keywords
therapy for neurodivergent adults, mental health tools, depression support, motivation during depression, hope and healing, proactive mental health strategies, benefits of therapy, mental health education, neurodivergent mental wellness, Jon Foote interview