Episode Summary
In part one of our two-part conversation with mental health advocate, influencer, and mom Alli Skrbek (https://www.tiktok.com/@alli_mom?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc) , Alli shares her heartbreaking journey of losing her oldest son Alex to suicide, exploring his life, his struggles with depression and alcohol and drugs, and the tragic circumstances leading to his death. This candid and raw conversation offers insights into mental health, warning signs, and the importance of awareness and intervention.
Allie talks openly and emotionally about grief, family dynamics, substance use, and she speaks about her journey into mental health advocacy and suicide prevention.
She's a warrior, and she's sharing Alex's story—and her grief—with the world to help normalize the conversations so many families are afraid to have. Through her honesty, vulnerability, and advocacy, Alli is breaking down stigma, shining a light on the realities of mental illness and suicide loss, and reminding other grieving parents that they are not alone. This is one of our most powerful conversations ever about love, loss, survival, and the courage it takes to keep telling the stories that matter.
Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™
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Takeaways
• Alex's personality and passions
• Signs of depression and warning signs
• Circumstances leading to Alex's suicide
• Family dynamics and mental health challenges
• The impact of trauma and substance abuse
• Recognize early warning signs of depression and suicidal ideation
• Seek professional help for loved ones showing signs of distress
• Create a safety plan for at-risk individuals
• Advocate for mental health awareness and education
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Allie's Story
03:39 Remembering Alex: A Tribute to His Life
06:34 Understanding the Signs of Struggle
09:11 The Impact of Relationships on Mental Health
11:53 Navigating Family Dynamics and Mental Health
14:33 The Struggles of Young Adulthood
17:33 Crisis Moments and Warning Signs
20:10 The Consequences of Substance Abuse
23:17 Seeking Help and Facing Challenges
26:12 The Journey of Healing and Reflection
28:00 The Turning Point: A Mother's Struggle
29:42 Unraveling the Truth: The Hidden Struggles
37:10 The Tragic News: A Life Cut Short
43:36 The Aftermath: Seeking Answers and Justice
Mental Health Resources
• If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help.
• The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/
• The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/
• National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)
• Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books) (https://a.co/d/00Zthp5f)
• Follow Alli on TikTok at @alli_mom (Alex's Sky) (https://www.tiktok.com/@alli_mom?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc)
Follow & Connect With Us
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_survivors_podcast
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-survivors-podcast
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorsPodcastChannel
🎵📱TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesurvivorspodcast
See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.