Content note: This episode includes discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. Listener discretion advised. If you’re struggling, call or text 988 (U.S.).

Comedy and mental health collide in this powerful, heartfelt episode of The Hanley Effect with Frank King, The Mental Health Comedian. Frank shares how a lifelong career in stand-up and joke-writing, including 20 years writing for Jay Leno and The Tonight Show, evolved into a mission: using humor to help people talk about suicide, reduce stigma, and save lives.

Frank speaks candidly about living with major depressive disorder and chronic suicidal ideation, and why naming those experiences can be life-changing for people who have silently carried similar thoughts. With hosts Dr. Rachel Docekal and Dr. John Dyben, the group unpacks why asking directly about suicide does not “plant the idea” and why meaningful prevention often starts with something simple: showing up, noticing, and starting the conversation.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

– Why Frank calls himself “The Mental Health Comedian” and what that really means

– Chronic suicidal ideation and how hearing it named can reduce shame and isolation

– How humor can create emotional “breathing room” so people can absorb difficult truths

– Frank’s story of hitting bottom during financial collapse, and the unexpected moment that helped interrupt his plan

– A moving story from a construction site that illustrates why workplace suicide prevention is essential

– Why “Are you OK?” can be one of the most important questions you ever ask

– The role of peer mentorship and lived experience in recovery and healing

– A simple way to help someone in crisis: encourage them to reach out before their “time runs out”

Crisis support mentioned in the episode:

If you or someone you love is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 in the U.S. the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Help is available 24/7 and connects you to trained support.

About our Guest

Frank King is a comedian, TEDx speaker, and suicide prevention speaker with 30 years of experience helping audiences laugh, learn, and leave presentations loving life. He began stand-up in 1985 and holds a record for 2,629 consecutive nights on the road performing without a home, just a PO Box and an answering service. He has shared the stage with many of the biggest names in comedy and entertainment and spent two decades writing for Jay Leno and The Tonight Show. Today, Frank uses his lived experience and comedic skill to make suicide prevention conversations more approachable and actionable.

Frank’s Website: mentalhealthcomedian.com

How to Connect

Learn more about Hanley's mental health and substance use treatment programs visit: hanleycenter.org

Admissions & info: 844‑502‑4673