Holding on to Hope

In this episode of Holding on to Hope, entertainment journalist Jonathan Moran (JMo) opens up about his journey through life’s toughest moments and the practices that keep him grounded today. From growing up with challenges to embracing honesty, kindness, and self-care, JMo shares how he’s turned pain into purpose and why he proudly calls himself a warrior. His story is a reminder that even the smallest steps, being truthful with ourselves, finding joy in daily rituals, and giving ourselves grace, can create space for healing and hope.

In his early 20s, Annas began experiencing suicidal thoughts but didn’t know how to talk about them. Stigma around mental health in his community made it difficult to reach out, so he turned to Lifeline’s text crisis support line. That conversation became a turning point, offering him the space to express himself without fear of judgment. Over time, Annas found support from his family, pursued therapy, and became an advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. Though he still faces challenges, he’s learned the power of connection and is here to share his journey from struggle to hope. LINKS & RESOURCES Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14 Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114 Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook CREDITS Hosted by Carla Proudly presented by Lifeline A special thanks to Nathida for sharing her story Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do

From a young age, Nathida struggled to find where she belonged. Moving to Australia from Thailand as a child, she faced cultural challenges and, without knowing she was autistic, felt isolated and misunderstood. With mental health a taboo topic in her culture, she battled suicidal thoughts alone until she reached out to Lifeline. That call became a turning point, offering her the support she needed. Nathida is also part of the Inside Our Minds project. Each year, this initiative works with young people from traditionally underrepresented communities. In 2024, the project spotlighted seven courageous young people navigating mental health challenges and disability, and Nathida’s story is one of them. Now diagnosed and better supported, Nathida manages her mental health with self-care, a strong support network, and advocacy. She’s here to share her journey, from struggle to hope. LINKS & RESOURCES Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14 Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114 Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook CREDITS Hosted by Carla Proudly presented by Lifeline A special thanks to Nathida for sharing her story Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do

In the first episode of the season, we meet Michael, whose early life was marked by neglect, abuse, and profound emotional pain. After hitting rock bottom following the end of a meaningful relationship, Michael made a life-saving call to Lifeline, a decision that sparked a journey of healing, connection, and rediscovery. Michael speaks openly about growing up in a rural town where feelings were dismissed and silence was the norm, especially for men. But through therapy, supportive relationships, and creative outlets like writing and music, he began to transform his narrative from one of shame and survival to one of resilience and self-worth. Now in a happy marriage and recording his first album, Michael shares how reaching out helped him rebuild his life. His story is a reminder that even when things feel darkest, there’s always a path forward, and that healing doesn’t have to happen alone. LINKS & RESOURCES Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14 Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114 Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook CREDITS Hosted by Carla Proudly presented by Lifeline A special thanks to Michael for sharing his story Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do

In this episode we're honoured to have Joanna as our guest, sharing her journey of resilience from teenage struggles with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts to finding hope and healing in her 50s. Joanna's story began with challenges in her early teens, including the loss of her mother and own her battles with mental health issues. At 24, the suicide of her stepbrother was a turning point, leading her to seek support from Lifeline and professional help. Reflecting on her experiences, Joanna credits Lifeline with saving her life multiple times and emphasises the importance of self-care in managing mental health. She now advocates for others, sharing her story to let them know they're not alone in their struggles. LINKS & RESOURCES: Call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14 Send a text to Lifeline at 0477 131 114 Chat live with Lifeline at www.lifeline.org.au Follow @lifelineaustralia on Instagram Follow @LifelineAust on Twitter Like @LifelineAustralia on Facebook CREDITS Hosted by Ruben Proudly presented by Lifeline Special thanks to Joanna for sharing her story. Lifeline would like to acknowledge the lives lost to suicide and recognise those who have survived suicide attempts. And those who struggle today or in the past with thoughts of suicide, mental health issues and crisis situations, we acknowledge all those who have felt the deep impact of suicide, including those who love, care and support people experiencing suicidality and those experiencing the pain and bereavement through suicide. We respect collaboration with people who have a lived or living experience of suicide and mental health issues and value their contribution to the work we do.