How Self-Harm Becomes a Survival Tool, Not Attention-Seeking with Katie May
About this episode
Francesca Reicherter and Katie May discuss the complexities of self-harm and depression, emphasizing the importance of understanding and support over invalidating responses.
Many people living with depression aren’t trying to “be happy.” They’re just trying to make it to tomorrow. In this deeply honest episode of Normalize The Conversation, Francesca Reicherter sits down with therapist and author Katie (You’re On Fire, It’s Fine) to talk openly about suicidality, self-harm, emotional sensitivity, and what it actually means to live with depression — not just recover from it. This conversation explores the emotional weight of birthdays and holidays, the pressure to look okay, and the reality that someone can laugh, function, and still be struggling to stay alive. Katie shares from both lived experience and professional insight, explaining how self-harm can become a survival strategy when emotions feel overwhelming — not an attention-seeking behavior. Together, they unpack why invalidating responses like “be positive,” “get over it,” or “you seem fine” can deepen shame and isolation, even when they’re well-intentioned. This episode also speaks directly to parents and loved ones. Katie explains why fear often drives reactive responses, how shame shows up in families, and what supportive language actually looks like when someone is suicidal or…
People in this episode
Host: Francesca Reicherter
Guest: Katie May
Topics covered
- self-harm
- depression
- suicidality
- emotional sensitivity
- supportive language
- mental health
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: You’re On Fire, It’s Fine
More episodes of Normalize The Conversation by Inspiring My Generation
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- How to Cope With Depression Without Feeling Alone with Russ Jones
- How Sports Create Inclusion for Every Person with a Disability with Kyle & Brent Pease
- Why Schools Need Mental Health Education with Ross Szabo
- Burnout Isn’t Just Stress: The Hidden Habits Affecting Your Energy & Mood with Chris Burres
- You Don’t Have to Be “Sick Enough”: Overthinking, Anger & Asking for Help with Emma Tropea
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