Dan Boyce: Rebuilding Life After a Mental Breakdown
Depression is a demon we share, so it's good to see him out on this land, his favorite region in the world.
Imagine having a thriving career and then suddenly finding yourself in the depths of a severe mental breakdown. That's the heart-wrenching reality Dan Boyce faced. In this gripping episode of 'Back from Broken', Colorado Public Radio reporter Dan Boyce takes us on a raw journey through his battle with depression and the road to recovery. With candid interviews from friends and family, and a reflective fishing trip, Dan pieces together the fragments of his life during his darkest days.
By age 30, Dan was transitioning from local reporting in Montana to covering national stories in Denver. Despite lifelong bouts of depression, nothing had prepared him for the complete mental collapse he experienced. Through unfiltered conversations, Dan reveals the toll his breakdown took on his career and personal life. He discusses his time in hospital, the medications that became part of his daily routine, and the therapy sessions that gradually helped him heal.
This episode doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of mental illness. It includes strong language and open discussions about suicide, so listener discretion is advised. But amidst the brutal honesty, there's a powerful message of hope. As Dan reflects on a serene fishing trip, he shares how finding joy in small moments became a cornerstone of his recovery.
If you've ever struggled with mental health or know someone who has, Dan's story offers a poignant reminder that recovery is possible, even when it seems out of reach.