Simply put, the Half a Sorrow Foundation exists to prevent suicide. Elaborating on that mission, Founder and Executive Director Dennis Gillan says the goal is to prompt people to share their stories. Now a prolific speaker, Gillan found that sharing his heart-wrenching story of losing two brothers to suicide lessened his sorrow. Since then, he’s inspired countless others. The ultimate aim is to eradicate the stigma of mental health issues so no one suffers in silence.
Standing before various audiences across the country, Gillan says it’s not uncommon for his story to motivate others to talk about their struggles or those of loved ones. “The minute you are vulnerable and let the barriers down, wonderful people flow in,” he says.
Gillan is not a therapist; however, he has been trained to oversee a number of programs designed to instruct others as they interact with those who need support. “It’s sort of like CPR,” he says. “You may have to help a person in a mental health crisis until you can get them to the professionals.”
In addition to working with numerous corporations, churches, colleges, and nonprofits, Gillan and his associates advocate for mental health. The foundation’s website is replete with resources and creative programs to help individuals connect in person or online.
Visit halfasorrow.org today to learn more about training opportunities, make a donation, book a speaker, or share your story.
A shared joy is a double joy; a shared sorrow is half a sorrow.
—Swedish proverb
halfasorrow.org | 803.712.3247
