‘How are you?’ - a question we don't ask enough, but one Simon Gunning wants us to ask more often. Ahead of World Mental Health Day, I’m joined by Simon, CEO of CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), a charity dedicated to suicide prevention, raising awareness, and offering practical support. As an ambassador for CALM and someone who has had struggles with anxiety myself, this conversation means a lot to me, and one that is important to share.

TW - this conversation contains discussion of suicide which some listeners might find distressing.

There are some staggering stats about death by suicide in recent years and yet it’s still such a difficult thing to talk about but charities like CALM are breaking down barriers and really shining light into a topic which can sometimes feel intolerably dark. Simon and I reflect on our relationships with our fathers, how a handshake was his only physical connection with his dad, and why these generational silences shape men’s aptitudes of emotion.

This episode is about why leaning into the uncomfortable can be life changing - or indeed, saving.

If you, or anyone you know is affected by anything in today’s episode, you can speak to Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) in confidence. Find out more about CALM's helpline, tools and resources at thecalmzone.net

One of the ways to support CALM's life-saving work is through the latest Omaze Million Pound House Draw - offering the chance to win a luxurious home in Devon worth over £2,000,000 - plus £250,000 in cash - with paid entries starting from £10. Draw entries are available now at @omazeuk.The Draw closes at midnight on Sunday 27th October.

Link: https://goto.omaze.co.uk/3N1t8oJ

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THE CREDITS

Exec Producer: Jemima Rathbone

Assistant Producer: Gurlina Heer

Video: Jake Ji

Social Media: Laura Coughlan

Great Company is an original podcast from JamPot

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