"I felt like I was from a different world that I didn't understand... so how could anyone else?" — Anthony ("Ant") Tricarico
Anthony "Ant" Tricarico grew up in a home filled with love, adventure, and unwavering support. Bright, compassionate, and highly functioning autistic, he was driven to succeed. Yet beneath his accomplishments was an inner world few could see—one shaped by perfectionism, black-and-white thinking, and a growing sense of isolation.
As the COVID lockdowns disrupted his life, Anthony's mental health declined despite his parents' tireless efforts to find answers and help. At just 16 years old, Anthony died by suicide.
In this deeply moving conversation, his father, Neal Tricarico, courageously shares his family's journey through unimaginable loss, the warning signs that they saw but know one could help, and the heartbreaking reality that resources for autistic youth struggling with mental health remain limited. Neal discusses research he cites showing that autistic children face a significantly higher risk of suicide and explains why greater awareness, earlier intervention, and better support are urgently needed.
During our conversation, something extraordinary happened. Anthony's spirit came forward with a message that offered his father a new understanding of the struggles he had carried in silence. His words revealed a perspective that had remained unknown until that moment:
"I felt like I was from a different world that I didn't understand... so how could anyone else?"
Today, Neal has transformed unimaginable loss into purpose, helping others navigate grief, trauma, and the lifelong journey of living after the death of someone they love.
Whether you come to this episode seeking insight into autism, mental health, grief, or the possibility that love continues beyond this life, Anthony's story reminds us that behind every smile may be an inner world longing to be understood.
Connect with Neal Tricarico:
- Website: Nealtricarico.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nealtricarico/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/nealtricarico/
- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nealtricarico
Connect with Shari Leigh Roberts:
- Website: https://www.shariroberts.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharileighroberts/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shari-roberts-637b431b8/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shariroberts-g4u/
Purchase Shari's book -
📖 Book: Broken to Enlightened (Purchase at most online bookstores or on Shari's website at shariroberts.org/my-book/. You can also download the first two chapters for free on the same page.
🎙️Join Shari's Clarity Crusader Community. Go to www.shariroberts.org and on any page at the bottom input your name and email.
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Listen on Shari's website shariroberts.org/podcast/ or
On all major podcast platforms including -
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/transcending-trauma-the-spiritual-odyssey/id1808753390
https://open.spotify.com/show/04tAzvkdzB7cHHVKtipv27 and
Watch or listen on YouTube - https://youtube.com/@shariroberts-g4u
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