In this week's episode, we are talking about mental health, depression awareness, and suicide prevention as a dedication to a dear friend of mine that we lost last year. I speak with Andrea Thomas Hand, singer and songwriter out of Nashville. Andrea has toured with Carrie Underwood as a backup singer, appeared on the Voice, and is currently working on a television show, "The Sound of Hope" in which she will raise awareness for mental health while encouraging alternative solutions for a lifestyle change through spiritual and mental steps rather than turning to negative influences and toxic choices. The show will eventually evolve into a non-profit as well as a tour. Andrea's family was closely affected by suicide last year as she lost her cousin to the battle with depression. She has since committed to using her voice to create a platform for this conversation.

You can find Andrea at wwww.andreathomasofficial.com. She's on Instagram @andreathomas and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/andreathomasmusic/.

My friend, Kristin Navarro with Whitehorse Steakhouse at Oak Meadow Ranch also shares with us about her family's struggle with losing a loved one to the same mental health battle. Kristin is real and raw and committed to supporting families that have gone through this same tragedy. She discusses the family's struggles with PTSD and depression after the loss. As a result of this experience along with her background in law enforcement and first hand experience with suicide, she and her family have founded a non-profit organization. The Renay E. Watt Memorial supports suicide awareness and prevention.
You can find Kristin on Instagram @mrs.navarro_dallastx and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1035735632

And, wrapping the episode up is my dear friend and Pastor's wife, Dawn Simmons. Dawn provides lay minister counsel and speaks to the stigmas surrounding mental health within the church and the christian community. She speaks to the tangible steps one should take in the midst of depression and how the church should be there to love on them without providing judgement.

If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts, or have questions, you can email her: dawn@friendshipchurch.com.

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