GetRealLive  was honoured to host special guest Jamie Tworkowski, CEO of To Write Love on Her Arms. To Write Love on Her Arms is a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide.  TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery.

Tonight as Jamie spoke, the chat room filled up with people who shared their own battles with depression and self harm. The ‘Thank you’s’ poured in as many would say that TWLOHA ‘saved their life’. The conversation was open and real as people continued to reveal their own personal struggles looking for hope and support.

I was reminded of a scene in the movie ‘Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close’ where the young boy was dealing with self inflicting. For many this was an introduction to this struggle, but sadly for many young people this was all to familiar and relatable. Jamie shared the origins of  TWLOHA  and retells the story of Renee, an inspirational girl behind this amazing movement. It’s a story not to be paraphrased so jump here to read ; it will certainly inspire you!

Studies indicate that two out of three people struggle with depression and never seek help and  untreated depression is the known as the leading cause of suicide. In America alone, it’s estimated that 19 million people live with depression, and suicide is the third-leading cause of death among those 15-24 years old. TWLOHA arms has been a major voice on this topic and has spread the message of hope using creative T-shirts and accessories designed for guys and girls. Proceeds from these items are a main source of support for the organization.

Later in the show we had Dr. George Pratt join the conversation and break this all down for us. He provided more understanding behind this and even offered solutions. In his book, ‘Code to Joy‘, Dr. Pratt unveils steps in how people can fight depression and work towards a life of happiness.

This show is a must listen for everyone! It will open your eyes and bring light to a conversation that has only just begun.

If you listened to the show and want to share how you have been impacted we would love to hear from you!! You can email us at events@getreallive.com. GetRealLive is all about connecting, educating and entertaining and is committed to sharing the stories that matter.

Listen to the show below on demand or download from iTunes. You can listen LIVE weekdays at 9:30am Mtn/ 8:30am Pac. Keep up with GetRealLive on Facebook and Twitter. Join the conversation because Life is boring without you.

CEO Jamie Tworkoski