I would like to introduce myself. I found the podcast through the A.V Clubs "Best Podcasts" list during the holidays, first episode I listened to was Maria Bamford's and after that I've been HOOKED. The podcast now feels like a comforting friend for me to curl up in bed with when I'm feeling low.
Have struggled with mental illness (borderline personality disorder and social anxiety) for ten years, since high school I've been taking medication and participated in various treatment/therapy options provided me, but never truly benefited from anything in the longterm. I have tried CBT therapy, psychoanalysis, counselling and DBT therapy (for people with BPD) as well as an inpatient hospital programme after a particularly severe suicide attempt. Listening to some of the episodes brings back a lot of memories...particularly the Teresa Strasser episode really struck a chord - because, just like Strasser's Dad helping her through suicidal thoughts, what has helped me survive throughout the years (not thriving in life, yet! BUT am doing a damn good job of surviving !) are my family and friends. I would be dead without my Dad's soul-reviving pep talks or my sister's unshakeable faith in my capabilities and talent, they have given me life when I've felt too scared to even take another breath or speak or eat or sleep. I wish all of us "gifted" 
people had stubborn loved ones who never gave up, who had the strength to bear our mental battles, help us move forward and thrive. Wishing you all a good enough day,
Golden_Tongue
