*CONTENT WARNING*

THIS EPISODE DISCUSSES SUICIDE AND THOSE WHO HAVE DIED BY SUICIDE. SOME VIEWERS AND LISTENERS MAY WANT TO AVOID THIS EPISODE IF THEY FIND THIS SUBJECT DISTURBING.

***If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts or you need to speak with someone, help is available. Please call or text the Suicide and Crisis Hotline at 988 or visit them online at 988lifeline.org to chat with someone who can help. You are not alone. Please reach out if you’re struggling.

Join the candid and open conversation between friends Ciciley Hoffman, a costume designer and wardrobe stylist, and host Alison as they discuss their personal experiences with loss, grief, and the often taboo subject of suicide. Ciciley shares insights on her journey through grief, the importance of talking about mental health, and why society needs to break the silence surrounding suicide prevention. The discussion covers the emotional impact of losing friends to suicide, the stigma that prevents open dialogue, and the crucial need for mental health education and supportive conversations.

00:00 Intro and Ciciley’s Introduction

00:40 Memories and Shared Experiences

03:15 Discussing Suicide and Its Impact

07:49 Personal Stories of Loss

15:36 The Importance of Talking About Mental Health

25:56 Addressing Misconceptions and Stigma

29:09 Understanding the Lie of Suicide

29:42 More Personal Stories of Loss

32:23 The Importance of Having a Plan to Support Others

34:09 Resources and Community Support

37:11 Celebrity Suicides and Collective Grief

40:01 The Need for Open Conversations

48:02 Personal Reflections on Grief

53:34 Breaking the Cycle of Silence