Bruce Simpson

PiZetta Media: Podcast with a Cause

Bruce Simpson, a 74-year-old attorney from Lexington, Kentucky, shares a powerful and deeply personal journey through decades of untreated mental health struggles and his eventual path to healing. Having long denied his mental health needs out of fear of stigma and perceived weakness, Bruce masked his pain, even as it intensified through his legal career. The cultural and personal biases he internalized kept him silent, leading to a life fraught with hidden struggles, including a meticulously planned suicide attempt. However, a sequence of events, including an intervention by law enforcement and his subsequent stay at Eastern State Hospital, ultimately saved his life. Bruce describes this turning point as transformative, allowing him to begin therapy and embrace medication, which has drastically improved his quality of life and cognitive clarity. Bruce’s story highlights his newfound advocacy for mental health treatment and spiritual connection. A self-described skeptic of both mental health care and religion, he now credits therapy, medication, and prayer for his recovery. He emphasizes the importance of dismantling societal stigma, viewing mental health issues as legitimate as physical ailments like cancer or heart disease. Bruce's experience serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even after years of silent suffering, a fulfilling and purpose-driven life is possible. Now, he dedicates himself to helping others by sharing his story openly, aiming to reach those who feel isolated or believe they cannot be helped, proving that recovery and peace are attainable.