The Nutters Club

A New Zealand actress is using her personal story of addiction, mental illness and recovery to spark national conversations about stigma and healing, following the release of a new television series inspired by her life. Speaking onThe Nutters Club, actress and writer Holly Shervey detailed how her series Crackhead draws heavily on her own experiences, including being admitted to a psychiatric facility at just 20 years old after years of substance use, disordered eating and deteriorating mental health. Shervey, who grew up in Queenstown after being born in Australia, described a turbulent childhood marked by the death of her mother from cancer when she was six. The loss, she said, triggered early anxiety and shaped her identity as “the girl whose mum had died,” a label that followed her through school. As a teenager, she struggled with body image and turned to alcohol and drugs as a coping mechanism. What began as social behaviour escalated into more harmful patterns after leaving school, culminating in an ecstasy binge, a suicide attempt, and a growing sense of losing control. Attempts to reset her life by moving cities and seeking therapy proved unsuccessful at the time. “I wasn’t in a space where I could do the work,” she said, reflecting on early treatment efforts. Her eventual admission into psychiatric care marked a turning point, though not an easy one. Shervey described the three-month stay as both traumatic and transformative, exposing her to a wide range of mental health conditions while equipping her with basic coping tools. However, reintegrating into everyday life proved challenging. She recalled feeling isolated and ashamed, struggling to rebuild a sense of normalcy while her peers moved forward with university and careers. Progress came slowly, often measured in small victories such as getting through a day without relapsing into harmful behaviours. A major shift occurred when Shervey discovered acting, which she described as providing purpose and structure. “Instead of living for the weekend, I was living for auditions and productions,” she said. Her recovery was further strengthened by her relationship with her husband, whom she credits with helping her confront long-held shame. His acceptance, even after learning about her psychiatric history, was a pivotal moment in her journey toward self-acceptance. Now, through Crackhead, Shervey is sharing her story publicly in the hope of reducing stigma and encouraging others to seek help. She says the response has been overwhelmingly relatable, highlighting how widespread mental health struggles are. Callers and texts to the show echoed that sentiment, reinforcing that recovery is often non-linear but possible, and that finding purpose, even in small steps, can be key to rebuilding a life. Click here to watch Crackhead for free on Three Now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hosted by psychotherapist Kyle MacDonald alongside addiction specialist Suzy Morrison, this weeks episode of The Nutters Club explored how early life experiences can shape later struggles. Andrea recounted a childhood marked by instability, frequent moves, and shifting family dynamics, attending 13 different primary schools. While she developed humour as a coping mechanism and found some stability in her teenage years, tensions at home and disrupted opportunities contributed to a growing sense of dislocation. Her substance use began early, with alcohol becoming a central part of her life by her mid-teens. What started as social drinking quickly escalated into habitual use, often to blackout. As Andrea entered adulthood, she pursued creative ambitions in theatre, moving between New Zealand, Australia, and Europe. Despite periods of professional success including joining a theatre company and later studying mime in Paris, addiction increasingly took hold. Her time overseas was marked by heavy alcohol use, cannabis, and eventually heroin addiction, which she described as an immediate and powerful dependency. While she achieved milestones, including performing and travelling, substance use undermined her stability and derailed opportunities. A traumatic assault in her late teens further compounded her reliance on drugs and alcohol. Andrea’s addiction persisted into her 30s, even as she became a mother. She described years of functioning addiction, maintaining aspects of daily life while drinking heavily and using substances intermittently. It was not until her late 30s and early 40s, after repeated warnings from others and mounting personal consequences, that she began to recognise the severity of her situation. Her turning point came when her family threatened to remove her son from her care. This moment, combined with seeing her former partner successfully in recovery, prompted her to seek help. Andrea entered detox and committed to a four-and-a-half-month rehabilitation programme, describing the experience as both confronting and transformative. Post-rehabilitation challenges included shifting addictive behaviours, including gambling, highlighting the persistent nature of addiction. However, sustained recovery was achieved through ongoing support systems, particularly 12-step programmes and community connection. Now nearly 30 years sober, Andrea describes her life as “beyond my wildest dreams,” with a repaired relationship with her son and a successful career behind her. Her story underscores a key message that while addiction can be enduring and multifaceted, recovery is possible with support, commitment, and connection.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This weeks episode of The Nutters Club, explored how everyday anxiety can escalate into panic attacks, and why understanding the process is key to recovery. The episode focused on panic attacks, intense physical episodes that can include sweating, racing heart, dizziness, and overwhelming fear. Williams shared his own experience with panic triggered by heights, recalling a frightening moment while visiting the top of the Statue of Liberty. Even recalling the memory, he said, can still trigger physical sensations such as sweaty palms. Psychotherapist Kyle MacDonald explained that panic attacks often arise when natural fear responses become amplified. “Almost everything we get anxious about is understandable,” McDonald said. “The problem isn’t that we feel frightened it’s that the volume gets turned up too high.” According to MacDonald, panic attacks often follow a cycle known as “fear of fear”. An initial anxiety response triggers physical symptoms, such as rapid breathing or a racing heart, which can then cause people to become frightened of the sensations themselves. This escalating loop can lead to a full panic attack. Because the physical symptoms mimic serious medical conditions, many people experiencing their first panic attack believe they are having a heart attack. The programme featured calls from listeners sharing their own experiences with anxiety. One caller described feeling overwhelmed while caring for his parents through serious illness and navigating major life changes. Another listener spoke about how panic attacks can strike unexpectedly in everyday situations, such as shopping in a supermarket. MacDonald emphasised that while anxiety disorders can feel debilitating, they are highly treatable. Short-term relief can sometimes come through medication, though some medications carry risks of dependency. However, psychological treatments, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, are widely recognised as effective in helping people understand and manage anxiety responses. Avoidance, MacDonald noted, is often what allows anxiety to grow. “When people start avoiding the situations that trigger anxiety, their world can shrink very quickly,” he said. “The key is learning to tolerate the anxiety long enough to discover that it will pass.” The programme also highlighted support services available in New Zealand, including the free 1737 Need to Talk mental health helpline, which offers 24-hour phone and text counselling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Auckland man Shelwin Khan was just 14 when addiction first took hold. By 15, he had overdosed, blacked out and woken in a police cell before being admitted to a youth psychiatric ward. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder as a teenager, he faced years of instability, cycling between substance use, hospital admissions and attempts at recovery. This week on The Nutters Club on NewstalkZB, Khan shared the long road from chaos to seven years of sobriety and a life he once believed was impossible. Born and raised in South Auckland to Fijian-Indian parents, Khan describes a turbulent adolescence marked by bullying, academic struggles and early substance use. Despite being told by a teacher he might be “slow,” he went on to complete a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and English. But behind the achievement, his drinking escalated. “I was drinking five days a week and recovering the other two,” he said. “On the surface I looked successful. Underneath, I was falling apart.” By his mid-20s, Khan was unemployable and had attempted rehabilitation three times. Each time he relapsed. After years of heavy drinking and drug use, and with only 16 days of sobriety across a two-year period, he reached a breaking point at 27. Instead of ending his life, he walked into a 12-step meeting. There he met a man who had been sober for 28 years. “He had more sobriety than I’d been alive,” Khan said. “He seemed peaceful. I wanted that.” Khan immersed himself in recovery, attending support groups and completing a Wellness Recovery Action Plan. He later trained as a peer support worker, drawing on his lived experience to help others navigating addiction and mental illness. Today, nearly seven years sober, he works across mental health services in multiple roles, including as a lived experience advisor. Sobriety opened doors he never imagined. He has travelled to 14 countries, including Japan, Italy and Switzerland, a stark contrast to the years when he struggled to leave his bedroom. Recovery has not meant the end of challenges. Khan continues to manage bipolar symptoms, including episodes of paranoia and psychosis, using self-awareness, support networks and practical coping strategies. Recently, he faced another test: a cancer diagnosis. A 10-centimetre tumour was surgically removed in January, and he is undergoing further treatment. Yet his outlook remains grounded. “If this had been the end,” he reflected, “the last seven years have been so full and meaningful that it would have been okay.” For Khan, sobriety is more than abstinence. “It’s about how I show up to life,” he said. “It’s about finding a new default.” His message is simple but powerful: recovery is possible and life, even with its curveballs, is worth it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest episode of The Nutters Club, hosted by Hamish Williams and psychotherapist Kyle MacDonald, delved into the complexities of family relationships and their impact on mental health. The show, featured heartfelt stories and practical advice on navigating family dynamics, estrangement, and emotional challenges. ​ The discussion began with an exploration of why family relationships can be more challenging than other connections. ​MacDonald explained that early attachment relationships significantly shape how individuals approach relationships later in life. ​He emphasised that family dynamics often carry intense emotions and history, making conflicts harder to resolve. ​He also highlighted the importance of setting boundaries to maintain healthy relationships, even if they are not always harmonious. ​ Listeners shared their personal experiences, shedding light on the diverse challenges families face. ​One caller, Craig, shared his positive upbringing, emphasising the importance of communication and mutual respect in fostering healthy family bonds. In contrast, Louise recounted her struggles with an overbearing and critical mother, which led to estrangement from her sister. ​She found solace in writing an unsent letter to her sister, a therapeutic exercise that helped her process her emotions and find peace. Terry, another caller, shared his painful experience of being estranged from his siblings due to homophobia within his family. MacDonald advised Terry to seek support from counselling services, such as 1737 or Outline NZ, to navigate the emotional toll of isolation and strained family ties. The show also addressed broader questions, such as managing family dynamics during significant events like weddings and funerals. ​MacDonald suggested setting clear boundaries and expectations for behaviour, emphasising the importance of self-protection and avoiding toxic situations. ​ Listeners were encouraged to seek professional help when dealing with unresolved family conflicts or emotional distress. ​Services like 1737, a free mental health helpline, were highlighted as valuable resources for those needing immediate support. ​ The episode concluded with a powerful story from Susie, who shared how she and her mother repaired their relationship through therapy and mutual effort. Her experience underscored the potential for healing and resolution, even in the most challenging family situations. ​See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this weeks episode, Psychotherapist Kyle McDonald emphasised the critical role of perspective in maintaining mental health. ​ He explained that perspective helps individuals focus on what they can control, rather than being overwhelmed by external stressors or events beyond their influence. McDonald highlighted the importance of mindfulness and being intentional about the information we consume, especially in a world saturated with negative news. ​ Listeners shared their experiences and coping strategies, including taking breaks from social media, engaging in hobbies like fishing, and finding solace in nature. Caller Rob described how fishing allows him to disconnect from daily stressors and focus entirely on the present moment, which helps him sleep better and feel more at peace. Another listener, Yvonne, shared her journey of living with bipolar disorder and the importance of journaling and finding supportive relationships to navigate her mental health challenges. The show also addressed the impact of global and personal tragedies on mental health. McDonald advised listeners to limit their exposure to distressing news and focus on actionable steps within their control. He likened this approach to the airplane safety rule of securing one’s own oxygen mask before assisting others, emphasising the need for self-care to effectively support others. ​ Listeners also shared stories of resilience and hope. Phil from Christchurch recounted his journey from homelessness and despair to finding a stable job, housing, and a supportive relationship. His message to others was to keep moving forward and maintain faith that circumstances can improve. ​ The episode concluded with a reminder that seeking professional help, such as therapy, is a valuable step for addressing unresolved trauma or persistent mental health struggles. ​McDonald recommended therapies like Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) for those dealing with stuck memories from childhood trauma. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The final episode of The Nutters Club, on NewstalkZB, aired amidst the unfolding tragedy of a shooting at Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia. Host Hamish Williams opened the show by addressing the devastating incident, which occurred just hours before the broadcast.  As details of the tragedy continued to emerge, Williams and producer Boris Sokratov shifted the focus of the show to highlight the importance of kindness and positivity in the face of adversity. ​They encouraged listeners to call in and share stories of people who had made a positive impact in their lives, emphasising the belief that the vast majority of people in the world are inherently good. ​ Throughout the two-hour program, callers shared heartfelt stories of gratitude and resilience. One listener, Neil, expressed his appreciation for his wife, Annabelle, who transformed his life despite his challenging upbringing and current health struggles with dementia and bowel cancer. Another caller, Kahu, shared how a natural remedy, Tulsi tea, had helped him manage his ADHD and sleep issues, offering hope to others facing similar challenges. The show also featured stories of gratitude for family members, friends, and even strangers who had shown kindness and support during difficult times. One caller, Matthew, highlighted the importance of independence for the disabled community, thanking New Zealand’s Kāinga Ora for providing housing and support that allowed him to live independently. Listeners also expressed their condolences to those affected by the Bondi Beach tragedy, with one caller, David, sharing information about how New Zealanders concerned for loved ones in the area could contact the New Zealand Police for assistance with welfare checks through Interpol.  As the show concluded, Williams and Sokratov reflected on the importance of community and connection, especially during challenging times. ​They encouraged listeners to carry the spirit of kindness and empathy into the holiday season and the new year. ​ The Nutters Club will return to the airwaves on January 18th, 2026, continuing its mission to provide a platform for mental health discussions and support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest episode of The Nutters Club, hosted by Hamish Williams and psychotherapist Kyle McDonald, focused on the challenges the festive season can pose to mental health. ​The show explored how the holidays, while often joyful, can also bring stress, financial strain, and relationship tensions. ​ The hosts emphasised the importance of planning ahead to manage the season’s unique pressures. ​ They discussed strategies for handling the abundance of food, alcohol, and social events, which can sometimes lead to overindulgence or trigger past addictions. ​Kyle suggested setting boundaries, such as deciding on a cut-off time for events or driving to ensure moderation. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining routines like exercise, sleep, and healthy eating to support mental well-being. ​ Listeners shared their personal experiences, with Marie expressing how Christmas can feel overwhelming due to financial struggles and family dynamics. She shared her sadness about missing her son, who is overseas, and the challenges of managing holiday expectations. ​ Hamish and Carl offered advice on focusing on meaningful gestures, such as writing heartfelt Christmas cards, rather than expensive gifts. Another caller, Karen, shared her creative approach to gift-giving, emphasising homemade presents like baked goods and crafts. ​ She highlighted how gifts made with love and care can be more meaningful than costly items. ​ Neil, another listener, echoed this sentiment, sharing his tradition of writing personal notes to his family members, expressing admiration and love. ​ The show also touched on the complexities of family relationships during the holidays. ​ A listener named Matt shared his struggle with spending Christmas alone after a difficult situation involving his ex-wife and her new partner. Kyle advised setting boundaries and communicating needs clearly to navigate such challenges. In a heartwarming moment, a listener named Kate from Christchurch offered to donate her late brother’s mobility scooter to Steve, a caller struggling with emphysema and financial difficulties. ​The hosts and audience rallied to find a way to transport the scooter from Christchurch to Auckland, showcasing the spirit of generosity and community that defines the holiday season. The episode concluded with a reminder to prioritise mental health during the holidays, embrace meaningful connections, and focus on the joy of giving from the heart.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warren Phillip, the General Manager of Essentially Men, experienced a personal journey of transformation, that coupled with the importance of mental health support for men has seen his work impact countless others. Speaking about his experience, Warren revealed how attending a retreat with his son over a decade ago became a turning point in his life, helping him confront his emotions and improve his relationships. Warren described his life before the retreat as one focused on career success, where he worked long hours as a Chief Financial Officer, often at the expense of his family relationships.  Feeling disconnected from his wife and children, he realised he needed to make a change. ​ His first step was attending a week-long retreat organised by Essentially Men, a program designed to help men connect with their emotions and build meaningful relationships. Initially skeptical, Warren found the experience transformative, as it introduced him to the concept of sharing his feelings in a safe and supportive environment. The retreat led Warren to participate in additional workshops and eventually join the organisation’s service team, where he supported other men on their journeys. ​Over time, he became deeply involved in the community, which fosters trust, active listening, and vulnerability among its members. ​This involvement helped him integrate the lessons learned into his daily life, leading to stronger relationships with his family and a deeper sense of self-awareness. ​ Warren’s story highlights the growing need for mental health support among men, particularly younger generations. ​He noted a shift in the age of participants attending Essentially Men workshops, with more men in their mid-30s seeking help compared to the mid-40s demographic seen in previous years. ​This change reflects a broader societal trend of increased awareness and reduced stigma surrounding mental health issues. ​ Essentially Men’s flagship program, “Men Being Real,” offers a weekend retreat followed by seven weeks of integration sessions. These sessions help participants apply the tools they’ve learned to their everyday lives. ​ Many men go on to form independent support groups, fostering long-term connections and providing a safe space to share their experiences. ​ Warren’s journey from a high-powered corporate career to leading Essentially Men underscores the importance of prioritising mental health and relationships. His story serves as a powerful reminder that seeking help and embracing vulnerability can lead to profound personal growth and stronger connections with loved ones. ​See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Carlton Irving’s life story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of purpose. ​ From a challenging childhood marked by frequent moves and financial struggles, to becoming an advanced paramedic and eventually a doctor, his journey is one of overcoming adversity and striving to make a difference. Born in Ōpōtiki, Dr. Irving grew up in various neighbourhoods, often facing tough circumstances. ​Despite his challenging upbringing, he developed a strong sense of purpose, inspired by his grandfather, a hardworking engineer and minister who instilled in him the value of service to others. ​ This early influence shaped his desire to care for people, leading him to pursue a career in paramedicine. Dr. Irving’s path was far from conventional. ​As a high school dropout, he faced significant barriers but found his way into the ambulance service, where he worked tirelessly to save lives. His experiences as a paramedic exposed him to the harsh realities of poverty and the impact of socioeconomic factors on health outcomes. These encounters fuelled his passion for improving healthcare access and addressing systemic inequalities. ​ After years of witnessing trauma and loss, including the deaths of many young patients, Dr. Irving reached a breaking point. ​The emotional toll of his work led to a mental health crisis, culminating in a failed suicide attempt. ​This pivotal moment prompted him to seek professional help, where he learned to process his experiences and rebuild his mental health. ​ Determined to make a broader impact, Dr. Irving decided to pursue medical school at the age of 38. ​Despite the financial and personal challenges, including working full-time while studying, he graduated as a doctor in 2024. His journey has inspired many, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. ​ Now, Dr. Irving is focused on transforming healthcare in New Zealand. He advocates for creating pathways to train more doctors from underserved communities, particularly rural and Māori populations, to address disparities in health outcomes. ​He believes in embedding cultural safety into medical training and practice, ensuring that healthcare professionals can build trust and connect with diverse communities. ​ Dr. Irving’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience, purpose, and a commitment to learning can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. His vision for a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system is a beacon of hope for the future. ​See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elizabeth, a recovering alcoholic and creator of the stage play REHAB, shared her inspiring journey of overcoming addiction and finding purpose on Newstalk ZB’s The Nutters Club. Now 16 years sober, Elizabeth reflected on her struggles with alcohol addiction, her path to recovery, and her efforts to break the stigma surrounding addiction. ​ Born in Christchurch and raised in East Auckland, Elizabeth began drinking at the age of 15 after her parents’ separation and a school change left her feeling lost and uncomfortable in her own skin. Alcohol provided a sense of relief, but her drinking quickly escalated into an obsession. ​ By her late teens, she was drinking during the day and experiencing blackouts. ​ At university, where drinking was normalised, her addiction worsened, leading to daily drinking and even consuming alcohol before morning lectures. ​ Despite her struggles, Elizabeth managed to complete her Bachelor of Communications degree, but her addiction continued to spiral. By her early twenties, she realised the toll her drinking had taken on her relationships, health, and career. ​ After several failed attempts to quit, including detox diets and recovery meetings, Elizabeth finally sought help at a residential rehab facility. There, she found solace in the therapeutic community model, which provided a safe space for vulnerability and growth. ​The strict rules and group therapy sessions helped her confront her addiction and begin the process of healing. Elizabeth’s recovery journey wasn’t without challenges. ​ After getting sober, she developed an eating disorder, which she addressed using the tools and principles she learned in rehab. ​ She credits her recovery community for providing the support and encouragement she needed to overcome her struggles. ​ Since achieving sobriety, Elizabeth has accomplished remarkable milestones, including becoming a mother, retraining as a lawyer, and working as a criminal defence attorney. ​ She also created Rehab, a stage play that sheds light on addiction and recovery, aiming to reduce stigma and inspire others to seek help. ​The play, which debuted in 2021, has been performed multiple times and is set for its seventh season at Auckland’s Pumphouse Theater. Elizabeth’s story demonstrates the power of resilience, community, and the possibility of transformation. ​For those seeking help, she recommends reaching out to local services such as Community Alcohol and Drug Services (CADS), Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), or residential rehab facilities like Higher Ground and the Salvation Army’s Bridge program. REHAB tickets available here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mental Health Awareness Week has prompted a wave of discussions about the importance of mental health and practical strategies for improving wellbeing. ​The Nutters Club took the eve of the week to explore various approaches, from mindfulness to community connection, with listeners sharing personal insights and experiences of what they would like New Zealanders to be most aware of during this years awareness week. The show highlighted the significance of small, everyday actions in fostering mental health. ​ Many callers emphasised the power of simple gestures, such as greeting strangers, smiling, or engaging in light conversation. ​These small acts of connection, they argued, can have a profound impact on both the giver and receiver. ​ One caller, a personal trainer, underscored the mental health benefits of physical activity, particularly weight training. He explained how exercise releases endorphins, the brain’s “feel-good” hormones, and provides a mental escape from daily stressors. ​ Another listener shared how repairing items and gardening offered a sense of accomplishment and mindfulness. ​ The Mental Health Foundation’s “Five Ways to Wellbeing” framework—give, connect, be active, keep learning, and take notice—was frequently referenced as a practical guide. It was also noted that activities like joining run clubs, reading books, or even watching uplifting movies align with these principles and can significantly enhance mental health. ​ Gratitude emerged as a recurring theme. ​Several participants shared how starting the day by reflecting on things they’re thankful for helps set a positive tone. ​However, Psychotherapist Kyle MacDonald cautioned that while self-directed strategies like gratitude and mindset shifts are valuable, they should not be imposed on others who may be struggling. ​ The show also addressed the challenges of systemic issues, such as access to mental health services. One caller highlighted the need for better support for individuals in emergency housing or those with complex needs, emphasising the importance of listening without judgment. Listeners were reminded that mental health struggles are diverse and that solutions must be tailored to individual circumstances. ​For those feeling overwhelmed, reaching out to professionals or helplines like 1737 was encouraged. ​ The discussions underscored the importance of community, empathy, and taking proactive steps to support mental health. As one caller aptly put it, “Treat everyone as you would someone with a broken arm—compassionately and without judgment.” ​See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this weeks NewstalkZB’s The Nutters Club, host Hamish Williams and psychotherapist Kyle MacDonald delved into the critical role relationships play in mental health. The show featured callers sharing personal stories, challenges, and triumphs, highlighting the complexities and rewards of human connection. MacDonald emphasised that relationships are foundational to emotional well-being, citing connection and community as key elements. ​He explained that close relationships, whether romantic, familial, or friendships, provide essential support during life’s struggles. ​ Conversely, difficulties in relationships, such as betrayal or trust issues, can significantly impact mental health, leading to feelings of instability and loneliness. ​ Several callers shared poignant experiences. Susie recounted how family therapy during her mother’s rehabilitation from alcoholism transformed their strained relationship into a loving bond. ​ She credited the Al-Anon program for helping her rebuild connections with her siblings. Another caller, Bronny, spoke about the challenges of trust and the importance of setting boundaries in relationships, particularly after experiencing trauma. She stressed the need for self-belief and self-care as a foundation for healthy connections. ​ The discussion also touched on loneliness, which is increasingly prevalent despite the rise of digital connectivity. ​MacDonald noted that loneliness stems from the absence of meaningful relationships and can be detrimental to mental health. ​He encouraged listeners to take proactive steps to build connections, even if it requires vulnerability and effort. ​ A recurring theme was the importance of self-love and self-awareness. ​One caller, Lola, reflected on her struggles with forming relationships after losing her mother at a young age. ​ Despite her challenges, she found fulfilment in helping others and emphasised the value of believing in oneself. ​Another caller, Jay, shared his approach to combating loneliness by actively engaging with people daily, creating new friendships and spreading positivity. The show concluded with practical advice on navigating relationships, including the importance of communication, setting boundaries, and addressing issues like financial stress. MacDonald highlighted that relationships require effort but are ultimately worth it, as they enrich lives and protect against mental health challenges like depression and anxiety. ​ Listeners were reminded that while relationships can be complex, they are vital for emotional resilience and personal growth. By fostering connection and practicing empathy, individuals can build stronger, healthier relationships that enhance their overall well-being. ​See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.