True Emotion Dad
Laverne Friesen is a survivor turned thriver, transforming decades of abuse and trauma into a message of healing and hope. Raised in a cult and enduring emotional, physical, religious, spiritual, financial, and sexual abuse—as well as toxic relationships that left him questioning his reality—Laverne shares his raw, authentic journey of healing and spiritual growth.
Tune in for powerful conversations with like-minded guests, offering truth, vulnerability, and the reminder that a brighter, more authentic future is possible.
True Emotion Dad
Breaking The Silence: Finding Hope in Despair
"I was saved by a 3-year-old angel."
Summary In this episode of True Emotion Dad, Laverne Friesen shares his personal journey through a prolonged mental health crisis, detailing the events that led to his struggles with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. He discusses the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in the context of law enforcement, and emphasizes the importance of seeking help and understanding childhood trauma. Laverne shares his experience of betrayal and abandonment, when those closest to him refused to help. He highlights the role of connection and support in healing, urging listeners to be more aware of the struggles others may face and to foster open conversations about mental health.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to True Emotion Dad Podcast
05:37 The Struggle with Work and Personal Life
08:40 Seeking Help: The Stigma of Mental Health
10:00 Falling Through the Cracks: A System Failure
12:42 The Breaking Point: Apathy and Despair
15:10 The Descent into Suicidal Thoughts
16:43 A Three-Year-Old Angel: Finding Hope
18:50 Desperation and Shame: A Cry for Help
20:08 The Impact of Childhood Trauma
22:14 A New Job: The Misguided Belief of Change
23:43 The Camping Trip: A False Reset
25:23 The Collision: A Moment of Realization
27:31 Finding a Specialized Therapist
28:36 The Power of Connection: You Are Not Alone
30:36 The Importance of Talking About Struggles
32:43 The Stigma of Mental Health in the Workplace
34:03 The Betrayal of Silence: A Call to Action
35:44 Generational Trauma: Understanding Our Past
40:05 Finding Help: The Journey to Healing
43:10 Gratitude and Hope: A Message of Resilience