Photo credit: The Breakfast club/youtube
Tessa Spencer is opening up about the loss of her son, Julian, to suicide and the work she is doing to help families facing mental health challenges. During an emotional appearance on The Breakfast Club, the South Carolina journalist discussed her grief, her faith and the advocacy organization she founded in her son’s memory.
Spencer joined DJ Envy, Charlamagne tha God, Jess Hilarious and Lauren LaRosa to share her family’s experience. She also explained how Julian’s struggles with mental illness inspired her to push for better support for people experiencing mental health crises.
Tessa Spencer Reflects on Losing Her Son Julian
Spencer described Julian as a creative and compassionate young man with a deep interest in poetry, spoken word, filmmaking and music. She said he had big dreams, including attending the New York Film Academy.
However, his life became increasingly difficult after he experienced bullying in eighth grade. Spencer said he later struggled with depression and anxiety. By age 19, he had received diagnoses of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
She explained that Julian sometimes resisted medication because he feared it would affect his creativity. Although his family remained involved in his care, Spencer said he continued to face serious challenges.
The journalist also discussed the emotional impact of losing her son. She said grief still catches her unexpectedly, even while she continues working and supporting other families.
Spencer Pushes for Changes to Mental Health Crisis Laws
Spencer also spoke about her efforts to improve access to emergency mental health care. She described an incident when Julian was 19 and appeared to be in crisis.
Although she took him to a nearby medical center, staff told her they could not compel him to receive care because he was legally an adult and did not want treatment. Spencer said she had to seek additional help while trying to keep her son safe.
That experience helped inspire her advocacy around South Carolina Senate Bill 862. She explained that the proposal aims to give families and loved ones a way to intervene when an adult is experiencing a mental health emergency.
According to Spencer, the bill advanced through the Senate and House but did not reach the House floor for a final vote before the legislative session ended. She said supporters planned to bring it back in January.
Save Our Sons and Daughters SC Honors Julian’s Legacy
Spencer founded Save Our Sons and Daughters SC, also known as SOSAD SC, to support families affected by mental illness and mental health challenges.
She said families often struggle to find resources, especially when loved ones refuse medication or treatment. Through the organization, she hopes to provide information, guidance and support to people navigating those difficult experiences.
Spencer also wants to expand the initiative beyond South Carolina. During the interview, she shared that a woman in New Jersey had expressed interest in bringing the organization to her state.
The work does not erase her grief, she explained. Instead, it gives her a way to honor Julian and help other families facing similar circumstances.
Tessa Spencer Shares Her Story of Faith and Healing
Spencer also discussed her own history with depression and suicide attempts. She said her personal experiences helped her understand the importance of discussing mental health openly within families.
She credited her faith and the support of her husband with helping her navigate the loss. However, she made clear that grief remains part of her daily life.
She also encouraged families to learn about their mental health histories and pay attention to changes in their loved ones’ behavior. For Spencer, honest conversations and awareness can help families recognize when someone may need support.
The interview also highlighted Remember Me: Breaking the Silence on Mental Illness and Suicide, a documentary Spencer created. She encouraged viewers to watch the film and learn more about SOSAD SC.
People can visit sosadsc.org to learn about the organization and support its work.
About the Author
