The Silent Struggle: Dr. Heather M. Clark's Battle with Depression and the Road to Healing

Episode Summary: In this raw and courageous episode, Dr. Heather M. Clark opens up about the mental health struggles she faced shortly after marrying the love of her life. While trying to navigate the demands of medical school, Dr. Clark found herself slipping into a deep depression that she didn’t recognize at first. A former extrovert, her life became consumed by anxiety and dark thoughts, leaving her paralyzed and hopeless. One fateful morning, while her husband was out hunting, thoughts of suicide began to overwhelm her. She believed everyone, including her husband, would be better off if she were gone. However, the love she had for him, and the devastation she knew he would face upon finding her, stopped her from going through with it. A breakfast date with a friend named Steve was a turning point when he noticed her distress and asked the right questions, saving her life. Dr. Clark shares her courageous journey through that first major depressive episode, which took nine months of prayer, medication, and counseling to heal. Yet, the battle wasn’t over. She would face two more frightening episodes before finally receiving the correct diagnosis, medication, and support that restored her emotional health and wellness. Through her story, Dr. Clark hopes to shed light on the reality of depression, even among medical professionals and people of faith. She discusses the importance of seeking help, the power of love and support, and the critical role of professional intervention. Her message is one of hope, resilience, and finding the light, even in the darkest times. Key Points: Dr. Clark's early signs of anxiety and depression after her wedding and medical school struggles. Her harrowing battle with suicidal thoughts and how love for her husband kept her from completing suicide. The pivotal role her friend Steve played in saving her life by recognizing the signs and offering help. The journey through nine months of recovery, including scripture, medication, and professional counseling. Facing two more major depressive episodes before finding the right diagnosis and treatment plan. The importance of recognizing depression in oneself, even when highly educated or a person of faith. A powerful message of hope and the healing power of love, community, and professional care. Guest Information: Dr. Heather M. Clark is a medical professional who has bravely shared her personal journey with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts to raise awareness about mental health. Through her story, she advocates for seeking help, breaking the stigma around mental illness, and offering support to those in need. Resources Mentioned: Sunny Smith MD - https://empoweringwomenphysicians.com/about-ewp/ Sunny Smith MD @sunnysmithmd Pamela Wible MD America's leading voice on doctor suicide - https://www.pamelawible.com and https://www.idealmedicalcare.org/ Dike Drummond, MD https://www.thehappymd.com/ Heather Clark's Contact Info: Sunflower Christian Coaching website: http://www.sunflowerchristiancoaching.com Go there to claim your FREE gift: 3 downloadable posters on fighting Perfectionism, Guilt and Shame's lies with the Word of God. To read and/or subscribe to Fresh Start Fridays: Nourish and Flourish, my weekly newsletter of faith-based mindset tips: https://sunflowerchristiancoaching.substack.com/ email: Heather@christiancoachingcenter.com Facebook: Personal-- Heather Harris Clark Business-- Sunflower Christian Coaching with Heather Clark, MD Call to Action: If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Speak with a friend, seek professional counseling, or contact a local helpline. You are not alone in this battle, and there is always hope for healing. In the words of Dr. Clark "Tell Somebody" Helplines: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) Crisis Hot Line & Text Line: 988 #suicidepreventionmonth #suicideawareness #suicide #depression #anxiety #doctors #nurses #professionals #christians #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #medicalstudent #womensupportingwomen #medicalfieldtrauma #support #helpline #crisisline #trauma #healing Lynda's Lovely Looks Crystal Energy Bracelets related to today's conversation - Womens Anxiety & Depression Bracelet https://www.lyndaslovelylooks.com › products › anxiety-depression-for-women-genuine-crystal-energy-bracelet Mens Anxiety & Depression Bracelet https://www.lyndaslovelylooks.com › products › anxiety-and-depression-for-men-genuine-crystal-energy-bracelet