Episode 164: It’s Cool to Cry
We often talk about the importance of checking in on others and asking “Are you OK?” But how good are we at recognising when 'we’re' not OK — and having the confidence to say so?
In this episode, Tim is joined by Jack Davis, founder of It’s Cool to Cry, for an open and personal conversation about mental health, emotions and why we shouldn't wait until crisis point to start talking.
Jack shares the experiences that led him to create It’s Cool to Cry, including losing his partner Ellie to suicide and his own journey through grief. He explains how trying to suppress difficult emotions ultimately taught him the importance of acknowledging, understanding and talking about how we feel.
We discuss:
Being proactive about mental health rather than waiting for crisis
Why vulnerability and these conversations can be particularly difficult for men
Jack’s concept of “vulnerability dominoes”
The difference between asking “Are you OK?” and being able to say “I’m not OK”
Practical tools, including the Feels Wheel, that can help us better understand and articulate our emotions
How It’s Cool to Cry workshops are helping make these conversations more normal
Content note:
This episode includes discussion of suicide, mental illness and grief.
Connect with Jack:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackdavis88/
Its Cool to Cry Website https://itscooltocry.com/