Holding on to Hope shares powerful stories from people who have experienced their toughest moments and found a way forward. Hosted by Lifeline Crisis Supporter Carla, each episode explores the challenges that can lead to emotional distress, the moments that helped someone hold on, and the people, tools and experiences that supported their recovery. Honest, hopeful and deeply human, these conversations remind us that even in the hardest moments, hope is possible.
On this episode of Holding on to Hope, we’re joined by Michael, an accredited social worker, therapist, and founder of Lived Experience Solutions. Michael grew up in Egypt, where from a young age he cared for both of his parents in a culture where suicide was heavily stigmatised and rarely spoken about. After the loss of his mother to suicide in Egypt, he later migrated to Australia carrying…
Rob Mills is a household name in Australia, an actor, singer-songwriter, television host, and entertainer known for his warmth and authenticity. Behind the spotlight, Rob has navigated moments of deep uncertainty, anxiety, and disconnection, and he has been courageous in sharing his journey to inspire others. In recent years, he has become a passionate advocate for mental health and Lifeline’s…
Stella’s story is one of courage, connection, and transformation. From a childhood marked by bullying and self-doubt to facing the challenges of an eating disorder and depression, she’s walked through some of life’s darkest moments. But through boxing, therapy, and genuine friendships, Stella has found strength, purpose, and peace. In this inspiring conversation, she shares how she turned pain…
When life felt overwhelming and hope seemed out of reach, Cristina found comfort in an unexpected place. A phone call to Lifeline at 3am went from a desperate moment to a turning point, showing her the power of connection, validation, and empathy. In this uplifting episode of Holding on to Hope , Cristina shares her journey from exhausted carer to passionate lived-experience advocate. She opens up…
In this episode of Holding on to Hope , Frances shares her powerful journey of compassion, courage, and community. A former Lifeline crisis supporter, Frances found herself sitting beside a stranger in deep distress, offering comfort, presence, and hope. Through this unexpected encounter, she was reminded of the profound difference we can make when we choose to listen, care, and connect. Frances…
At 49, Dominic’s world was shaken by a severe mental health crisis just as he was about to become a father. Overwhelmed by grief, past trauma, and thoughts of suicide, he turned to Lifeline, which these conversations became a vital source of comfort and connection when he needed it most. Through persistence, therapy, meditation, and the discipline of martial arts, Dominic rebuilt his life step by…
As a teenager in a small country town, Jai felt isolated, unsure where to turn, and burdened by struggles that seemed too heavy to carry alone. One call to Lifeline changed everything - offering safety, validation, and the reminder that she wasn’t alone. From those early moments of reaching out in a phone box, through experiences of homelessness and hardship, Jai discovered resilience, the power…
In this episode of Holding on to Hope, entertainment journalist Jonathan Moran (JMo) opens up about his journey through life’s toughest moments and the practices that keep him grounded today. From growing up with challenges to embracing honesty, kindness, and self-care, JMo shares how he’s turned pain into purpose and why he proudly calls himself a warrior. His story is a reminder that even the…
In his early 20s, Annas began experiencing suicidal thoughts but didn’t know how to talk about them. Stigma around mental health in his community made it difficult to reach out, so he turned to Lifeline’s text crisis support line. That conversation became a turning point, offering him the space to express himself without fear of judgment. Over time, Annas found support from his family, pursued…
From a young age, Nathida struggled to find where she belonged. Moving to Australia from Thailand as a child, she faced cultural challenges and, without knowing she was autistic, felt isolated and misunderstood. With mental health a taboo topic in her culture, she battled suicidal thoughts alone until she reached out to Lifeline. That call became a turning point, offering her the support she…