In loving memory of Beck. If you need support, you can always chat online with Hopeline247 / text SHOUT to 85258 or phone the Samaritans on 116 123. If you can't think of what to type or say next... simply say "hi", or however you might greet a friend.
Welcome back to another episode of the WILD & WILD Podcast with your host, April Wild.
In this deeply moving and vitally important episode, April is joined by Frances Bromley, who courageously shares her story following the devastating loss of her beloved son, Beck, to suicide. With honesty, compassion and strength, Frances speaks about grief, love and the urgent need for more open conversations around mental health.
Frances highlights the life-saving importance of talking and being truly heard. She shares her insights on active listening, why presence matters more than solutions, and introduces a practical safety guide designed to support people during their darkest moments. This guide forms part of a book she has written to help individuals and families navigate mental health crises with greater awareness, care and compassion.
This episode is a must-listen. Whether you are personally struggling, supporting someone you love, or simply want to better understand how to show up for others, this conversation has the power to inform, comfort and potentially save lives.
If you or someone you know is going through a difficult time, this episode may be the reminder that you are not alone and that help, connection and understanding are always within reach.
With sharing in mind, and if reading is your thing, then Frances offers this small selection of books and references that might help you now or at some time in the future as they have her…
Visit https://www.zerosuicidealliance.com to find free training that might give you the skills to help save a life.Visit https://www.mind.org.uk or Text SHOUT to 85258 (or YM if you're under 19) to help save your own.Support your local community with First Aid Training from St John Ambulance.
The Grieving Brain. Mary Frances O'Connor.This is the book we were gifted by my brother in law... he said this was the only book that made any sense to him in his journey through grief and he's the partner in a law firm so is well read in general. It was my bible in the very early days after Beck died.
Healing your grieving Heart for Teens.Alan D Wolffelt PhD.Explains really simply lots of tools for grief recovery. Out of print. I was given mine by a friend and bought more on line to give away.
This Book could Save Your Life.Ben West“In 2018, Ben West’s world collapsed around him when he unexpectedly lost his younger brother to suicide. In the raw aftermath of this tragedy, Ben found the strength to learn, educate and campaign about mental health. He also wrote this book as a reminder that in despair you can always find hope. It’s packed with advice and practical takeaways.”
You're not Listening.Kate MurphyKate is a journalist... nothing about grief here. I think this sums up the beauty of learning to listen and what a difference it can make in anyone's life. The important thing I have realised is that when I am in mental distress, I need to find people who will listen and help me to find my own solutions, and when my mind is settled I can actively listen to, support and learn from others.
Flip It.Michael HeppelA general guide to the skill of turning -ve to +ve.Read this with caution though, remembering the K in B.E.C.K. : to keep Kindness at the core of every positive solution you look for.
Let’s all become better listeners when it matters, and weave those silver threads of joy together to create warm blankets for the world!
And the website www.beckbromley.com for free downloads and videos.
Produced by TAEPodcast - www.taepodcast.co.uk
Feb 19 20261 h et 17 min