In this powerful two-part conversation, Dr. Jody Richardson sits down with Gus Worland, co-founder of Gotcha4Life, to discuss the critical importance of mental fitness and authentic connection in preventing suicide.

Gus opens up about losing a close friend to suicide and shares what he's learned from speaking with people who've attempted to take their own lives—revealing that they didn't want to die, they just wanted the pain to stop. He emphasises the crucial difference between being at a 2-3 out of 10 versus an 8-9, and why building emotional muscle before crisis hits is essential.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why asking "are you thinking of taking your life?" is the first and most important question
• How to start deeper conversations with friends (hint: it doesn't have to be face-to-face)
• The difference between being good at giving help versus asking for it
• Why men need to move beyond the "she'll be right, mate" mentality
• Practical steps to identify and strengthen your village of support
• How vulnerability builds stronger friendships than years of surface-level connection

Gus shares real-time vulnerability during the episode, demonstrating exactly what he teaches—reaching out to his circle when facing a family emergency and receiving immediate support.

Content Warning: This episode discusses suicide and mental health challenges. If you're in crisis, please contact Lifeline (Australia): 13 11 14

Resources: Visit gotcha4life.org or download the Mental Fitness app to access free resources and tools.

Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson:

https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ

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