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Content note: This episode contains conversation about suicide. Please look after yourself when listening.

This episode is a special one.

It’s part of Podcasthon 2026, where podcasters come together to raise awareness for charities that matter. For me, this one is personal.

In this conversation, I’m joined by Ged Flynn CEO from Papyrus, a UK charity dedicated to the prevention of suicide in young people.

We talk openly about suicide. Gently. Honestly. Without drama. Without sensationalising it. But without avoiding it either.

If you are a parent who has ever heard your child say the words that is every parents worst nightmare, “I don’t want to be here anymore,” this episode is for you.

We talk about:

• The myths that stop us talking about suicide
• Why talking about it does not “put the idea in someone’s head”
• The impact on parents and family members
• The difference between mental illness and suicidal thoughts
• Why neurodivergent young people can be at higher risk
• What actually happens when you call Hopeline247
• And something we don’t say enough to parents during these times…

I also share a little of my own family’s experience, and why Papyrus became a lifeline for us when we needed them.

If you take one thing from this episode, please, please let it be this:

You do not have to do this alone. Reach out.

We never know what could be going on for families behind closed doors. By sharing this episode wherever you can, you might just help someone who needs to see it today.

If you need support

Papyrus runs Hopeline247, a confidential support service for young people under 35 who are struggling with suicidal thoughts, and for parents or carers who are worried about a young person.

📞 Call: 0800 068 4141

📱 Text: 88247

🌐 www.papyrus-uk.org

(Available 24/7)

If you’re outside the UK, please look for a local suicide prevention helpline in your country.

Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn

You can also find Ged on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ged-flynn-394273b/

If you would like to donate to Papyrus so they can continue to be the lifeline that families need you do so here

Support the show

I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I specialise in burnout protection, event accessibility and inclusion, and supervision, with a love of podcasting.

🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree:
https://linktr.ee/the_untypical_ot

And if you'd like to contact me about the podcast please use the text link at the top or you can email at:
contact@untypicalparentpodcast.com.