A content warning right from the beginning here...the episode contains discussion around self-harm a.k.a. non-suicidal self injury (NSSI), and suicide is therefore also mentioned. So please take all the precautions you need to keep yourself safe, and skip the episode if you need to. Please also access support if you need to. You can find a large range of support services at thevoicesofhope.org/pages/find-a-helpline

Dr Kirsty Moore is a doctor of psychology, with lived experience of NSSI. She works across a range of roles, but holds a special passion for educating parents, teachers, and others who work with our young people, about NSSI and the ways to support people who are self harming, which she does voluntarily. We talk about how Kirsty got into psychology, how she became focussed on NSSI, including hearing some of her story, and how she uses this knowledge and experience for the good of others.

We talk about NSSI, some of the stereotypes that aren't so helpful, some of the common motivations, and why it's important to have thought about how you might support someone who is self harming.

Find Kirsty on Instagram, or if you are interested in having Dr Kirsty speak to your group, contact her at Kirsty@drkirstycoaching.co.nz

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Music by Strahan:

Spotify: Strahan

Facebook: facebook.com/StrahanMusic or facebook.com/commonerscommunion

Instagram: @strahanmusic or @commoners_communion

Back on Episode 33 we talked about James' time working with refugees in Ngaru, and then what he was up to in the Australian outback. This time we talk to him about his involvement in the formation of the Gaza Ceasefire Pilgrimages that began before easter and are continuing around the world. We talk about how and why they started, how it's going, and what they are hoping to accomplish. We talk about the importance of the involvement of Palestinian Christians in the movement, and how people around the world are joining in.

It's a great reminder that we can all do something, even if it feels like not much, and that that small thing when put together with the small things of others, can make a difference in the world.

Find Gaza Ceasefire Pilgrimages at gazaceasefirepilgrimage.com or on Instagram or Facebook

Follow Aotearoa Christians for Peace in Palestine on Instagram or Facebook

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Connect with me at downtoearthconversations.com or at

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Instagram: @downtoearth.conversations

Email: downtoearth.conversations@gmail.com

Bridie Boyd is, among other things, a chaplain at Hillmorton hospital, a psychiatric care facility in Ōtautahi (Christchurch). She is also involved in advocating for, and supporting, women in the Anglican environment in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

We talk about both of these roles. What drives her in her advocating for others? What draws her to love those others neglect or even despise?

We discuss what the role of chaplain actually involves and the challenges and rewards of doing such a role with people who are struggling in their mental health. Bridie also shares about her own mental health journey, how that has helped her in her role, and what she has learned along the way.

Within the kōrero we talk about embracing awkward spaces to learn from one another, the way chaplains hold hope for people when they can't hold it for themselves, and how valuable people are no matter who they are or what they're experiencing.

If you'd like to support the work of the hospital chaplains, head to ichc.org.nz

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Connect with me at downtoearthconversations.com or at

Facebook: facebook.com/downtoearth.conversations

Instagram: @downtoearth.conversations

Email: downtoearth.conversations@gmail.com