There are some conversations that stay with you long after they’re finished… and this is one of them.

In this episode, I sit down with the incredibly brave Donna Thistlethwaite to explore a story that is as confronting as it is hopeful. Donna shares, with such honesty and courage, how a moment in the workplace triggered a rapid spiral of anxiety, self-doubt, and overwhelming thoughts that led her to believe there was no way forward.

Listening to her describe how quickly things unraveled really touched my heart because it’s a reminder that this can happen to any of us, often in ways we don’t expect.

What I love about Donna’s story is not just the survival, but what came after. The way she has taken something so painful and turned it into a life of purpose, helping others feel seen, supported, and equipped with the tools to navigate their own mental health.

We talk about the beliefs that can quietly shape our inner world, the importance of connection, and the simple but powerful practices that can bring us back to ourselves, even in the hardest moments.

This conversation is a gentle but important reminder that everything is temporary. That the thoughts telling us we’re not enough are not the truth. And that even in the darkest moments, there is a path forward. Often one we cannot see yet.

If you’re struggling, or if you love someone who is, I hope this episode helps you feel a little less alone.

Get in touch with Donna Thistlethwaite:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnathistlethwaite/

Website: https://mentallywellthy.com.au/about/

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Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss (https://www.mbpod.com)

Mentioned in this episode:

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