Introduction: Welcome to a special episode of the "Just A Mom" podcast, where we kick off Season Five with a heartfelt and personal update. In today's episode, Susie is excited to be joined in the studio by a very special guest – her son, Will. As Susie expresses her joy at having Will home for the recording, the focus of this episode is centered around providing listeners with a detailed and intimate update on Will's life.

School Journey:

• Will details his transition from Shenandoah Conservatory to Mid-American University, studying acting and directing, and anticipated graduation next year.

• Will reflects on his time at TCU, the decision to transfer to Shenandoah, and the challenges he faced with anxiety and social circles.

Shenandoah Experience:

• Will discusses feeling isolated and the impact on his mental health.

• Will candidly opens up about his ongoing mental health struggles, highlighting that transferring to Shenandoah didn't eliminate the challenges.

Support and Intervention:

• Susie intervenes after Will expresses depression, ensuring his safety and exploring therapy and medication adjustments.

• Will's psychiatrist increases his dosage to address current circumstances, emphasizing the importance of medication adjustments.

Loneliness and Isolation:

• Despite a busy schedule, Will shares his experience of loneliness, challenges with roommates, and feeling like an outsider.

• Will discusses challenges in classes, rehearsals, and breaking into established relationships as a "freshman sophomore."

Emergency Visit:

• Susie narrates the decision to fly Will home during a difficult month, emphasizing the difference between FaceTime and in-person observations.

• Will contemplates alternatives to going back to school, expressing determination not to give up and considering job options.

Drive Back Home:

• The 16.5-hour drive home reflects on Will's hesitation to return to Shenandoah, navigating a challenging storm, and the importance of being together.

• Will shares positive aspects of the summer back home, acknowledging the internal struggle of giving college another try.

Decision to Return to Shenandoah:

• Family discussions lead to the decision to encourage another try, emphasizing the importance of auditions and a new class.

• Will gets callbacks for several shows at Shenandoah, receiving positive feedback from industry professional professors.

• Susie praises Will's lead role as the only non-senior cast, highlighting his experience playing dark characters.

Challenges Faced:

• Will reflect on challenges during the rehearsal and performance period, discussing the disconnect between personal values and the adaptation.

Closing Thoughts:

• Susie summarizes Will's journey from struggles to returning to Shenandoah, teases upcoming episodes, and expresses gratitude for Will's openness.

• Susie asks Will about mental health preparations, leading to discussions on counseling as a couple, premarital counseling, and planning.

• Will discusses planning with fiancée Kayley, seeking advice from experienced couples, and staying flexible.

Therapy and Professional Support:

• Susie emphasizes Will's ongoing medication and regular psychiatrist visits, recognizing the need for professional help.

• Will discusses ongoing therapy with personal therapist Dana Dahl, encouraging everyone to benefit from therapy.

• Will emphasizes the importance of being proactive and seeking support, acknowledging that mental health challenges require ongoing effort.

Support System:

• Will describes reaching out to his wife, parents, and therapist if needed, emphasizing the importance of a united front.

• Discussions highlight the reality of ups and downs in every marriage, with Will emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset.

• Will seeks advice from experienced couples, recognizing their wisdom and acknowledging ongoing struggles with depression.

Acknowledging Personal Growth:

• Despite ongoing challenges, Will acknowledges personal growth and positive changes, emphasizing the non-linear nature of the mental health journey.

• Recap of "The Brightest It's Ever Been":

• Susie recaps "The Brightest It's Ever Been," a play about anxiety, sharing its impact and plans for a regional tour.

Fundraising Opportunity:

• A fundraising The Culture House link (designate Balladeer Theatre Company) is mentioned for supporting the regional tour, encouraging contributions from those interested in mental health and theater.

• Susie shares her impact from the play, urging listeners to attend when it tours and acknowledging bias as the director.

Encouragement and Gratitude:

• Susie expresses gratitude for Will's openness, encourages listeners, and emphasizes the non-linear nature of mental health journeys.

• Susie mentions potential future updates from Will, thanks listeners for their support, and appreciates Will for the conversation.

• Closing remarks express gratitude, anticipation for future episodes, and thanks to the listeners for their support.