S2 Ep 34 - Depression, Suicide Attempt, & Hope by Kate Simonet

On the next episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Kate Simonet to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios for a conversation that is as powerful as it is necessary. Kate’s story is one of resilience, honesty, and ultimately—hope.Growing up just north of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Kate was the definition of a high-achieving student-athlete. At Brooklyn Park High School, she excelled in the classroom and on the course, standing out as a distance runner in cross country and track. Her hard work earned her a spot competing at Winona State University—but behind the success, Kate was quietly battling something she didn’t yet understand.What began as unspoken struggles in high school grew into something far more serious in college, where she was eventually diagnosed with bipolar disorder after years of going undiagnosed. From deep depression and suicidal ideation to a psychotic break while traveling abroad, Kate found herself navigating moments of fear, confusion, and overwhelming shame—often feeling like she didn’t have the “right” to struggle despite her supportive upbringing.In this episode, Kate courageously shares her journey through hospitalization, a suicide attempt, and the difficult road of finding stability through treatment—only to face setbacks again when she stepped away from medication. Her story doesn’t shy away from the darkest moments, but it also shines a light on what healing can look like.Today, Kate is a graduate of Winona State, a mental health advocate with Thumbs Up, and the author of Out of the Darkness. She now uses her voice to help teens feel seen, heard, and less alone.This is a conversation about breaking stigma, finding language for pain—and discovering that even in the darkest moments, there is a path forward. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!Purchase the book - Out of the Darknesshttps://a.co/d/09XKH5Zx