Daryl Brown survived a suicide attempt but lost his legs. In spite of this, he now has a fulfilled life. Daryl shares his struggle with depression, the conflict between his spirituality and sexuality, bullying, and isolation. Although he knows what it’s like to have no hope left, he has found ways to overcome physical and mental health challenges. This is a story of the power of the human spirit.  

If you are new to podcasts, simply click on the arrow to listen to Daryl and Mariette, or on the download button to download the conversation onto your device.

In episode 16 of the weekly podcast series Calm, Clear and Helpful, Daryl touches on

• experiencing suicidal thoughts from grade 7

• his attempts to change his sexual orientation

• his belief that, although he had depression, he should simply pull himself together

• the way depression can prevent connection with others

• how he lost his inherent optimism and ran out of options of finding happiness

• his suicide attempt while living in London

• the factor that changed everything after his suicide attempt

• how he recovered his will to live and his independence

• the goal he is working towards in order to help others and lessen the stigma attached to mental illness

• Daryl’s three best tips on singing.

  
  

Read the “Up close & personal” article on Daryl and listen to his poignant rendition of the song Dear Anyone.

Listen to journalist Marion Scher introducing “Surfacing”, an inspiring book about people living fulfilled lives despite challenges like anxiety or bipolar disorder.

The free podcast series Calm, Clear & Helpful is available on iTunes, Spotify, Player FM and Iono.fm.

Contact details

Daryl Brown is from Cape Town and works in marketing. He gives talks at schools and in the corporate environment: darylbrown3@gmail.com

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group: www.sadag.org

Podcast music by Mart-Marie Snyman

Thumbnail image: Unsplash

Photograph of Daryl Brown: supplied

Please note:
These podcasts are intended purely for educational purposes and should never replace professional evaluation or discussion. If you have suicidal thoughts, phone the free SADAG helpline at 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393 (both available 24/7) or contact a qualified medical professional.