The Just A Mom Podcast

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Episode 62: Major General Gregg F. Martin, Part 2 Feb 27, 2024

Show notes

Podcast Episode Show Notes, part 2: "Major General Gregg F. Martin"

Introduction: In the second episode featuring Major General Gregg F. Martin conversation extends to the prevalence of bipolar disorder in the military, addressing the significant challenges faced by service members. Major General Martin underscores the persistent stigma surrounding mental health issues and acknowledges the positive strides made in mental health support within the military while acknowledging the remaining hurdles.

Medication Cocktail and Treatment Approach

Mental illness treatment often involves a trial-and-error process to find the right medication and therapy combination.
Gregg highlights the importance of a holistic, multidimensional approach to mental health care, involving medication, therapy, and support from various professionals.

Quality of Psychiatric Care in VA Hospitals

Gregg shares his positive experience with the psychiatric department at White River Junction VA, emphasizing its exceptional quality compared to other VA hospitals.
However, he acknowledges that the standard of care may vary across different VA facilities due to factors like size and patient volume.

Prevalence of Mental Illness in the Military

Gregg suggests that the military environment, characterized by stress and high-energy expectations, may contribute to a higher prevalence of mental health conditions like bipolar disorder.
There has been progress in the military's approach to mental health, allowing service members with conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety to continue serving with proper treatment.

Promoting Mental Health Awareness and Recovery

Gregg's book, "Bipolar General: My Forever War with Mental Illness," aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote recovery strategies for individuals struggling with mental illness.
The discussion emphasizes the importance of seeking timely help and effective treatment to prevent the detrimental impact of untreated mental illness.

Personal Experience with Bipolar Disorder

Gregg provides insights into the manic and depressive episodes associated with bipolar disorder, describing the euphoria and grandiosity of mania contrasted with the lethargy and despair of depression.
He underscores the biological nature of mental illnesses, emphasizing that they are not character flaws but physiological conditions affecting brain function.

Topics: bipolar disorder survivor, bipolar survivor, bipolar disorder in the military

Episode 61: Major General Gregg F. Martin Feb 20, 2024

Show notes

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Major General Gregg F. Martin"

Introduction: In this episode of the Just A Mom podcast, Susie engages in a compelling conversation with Major General Gregg F. Martin, a combat veteran and resilient bipolar disorder survivor. Major General Martin candidly shares his tumultuous journey of grappling with bipolar disorder, shedding light on the unique challenges he confronted within the military. The first part of this interview delves into the complexities of misdiagnosis and the onset of his illness during the Iraq War, exploring the profound impact on his career.

Major General Martin’s Background

Major General Gregg F. Martin, PhD, US Army veteran, combat veteran, bipolar disorder survivor, and advocate.
Extensive military background with notable achievements and command positions.
Major General Martin retired due to a state of full-blown mania, exacerbated by bipolar disorder, which had been undiagnosed and untreated for over a decade.
His dismissal from National Defense University marked the climax of a 10-year struggle with bipolar disorder triggered during the Iraq War.

Medical Evaluation

Despite seeking medical evaluation multiple times, he received misdiagnoses and was deemed fit for duty, leading to spiraling depression and psychosis.
Proper diagnosis of bipolar disorder type one and psychosis came after severe depression episodes in 2014.

Impact on Work and Relationships

Major General Martin's manic episodes went unnoticed or were attributed to high performance during his military career, but erratic behavior was observed closer to his retirement.
His wife noticed gradual changes in behavior over the years but didn't associate them with mental illness until the situation escalated in 2014.

Psychiatric Hospitalization

Major General Martin's positive experience with inpatient psychiatric care at the VA followed ineffective treatment from military and civilian providers.
A thorough assessment at the VA led to the proper diagnosis and treatment plan, including inpatient care.
Major General Martin's book, 'Bipolar General,' aims to save lives, foster recovery, support bipolar survivors, and combat the pervasive stigma surrounding mental illness.

Topics: bipolar disorder survivor, bipolar survivor, bipolar disorder in the military

Episode 60: Meggin Part 2 Feb 13, 2024

Show notes

Podcast Episode Show Notes, part 2: "Meggin Rose"

Introduction: In the second part of the episode, Meggin reflects on her son's high school years, highlighting his compassionate nature. The narrative unfolds to reveal significant changes before college – a noticeable loss of energy and breakdowns in communication. Meggin courageously shares her son's accusation of emotional abuse, revealing the strain on their relationship. Throughout, she advocates for openness and compassion in addressing mental health challenges, stressing the interconnectedness of individuals and the pressing need to eradicate the stigma and shame linked to these struggles. This episode encapsulates an exploration of resilience, support, and the continuous quest for mental health awareness and understanding.

Observations in High School

Meggin reflects on her son's high school years, describing him as a compassionate and supportive individual.
Talks about the noticeable changes before he left for college, including loss of energy and communication breakdown.
Meggin recounts her son's accusation of emotional abuse, leading to a strained relationship before college.

Understanding Psychotic Episodes

Meggin shares insights into psychotic episodes, recounting her son's experiences with disorganized thinking, short attention spans, and altered perceptions.
Meggin talks about moments of fear and precautions taken, shedding light on the complex relationship between mental illness and violence.
The conversation delves into Meggin's struggles and moments of despair, emphasizing the importance of self-care.

Finding Strength and Coping Mechanisms

Meggin discusses finding strength and coping mechanisms, from therapy to engaging in activities like oil painting, writing, and volunteering.
Meggin shares insights into how her son's illness has affected her marriage, highlighting the partnership with her husband and their collaborative navigation of challenges.

Breaking the Silence and Building Support

Addressing societal stigmas, Meggin encourages open conversations about mental health, touching on historical blame and the shift towards shared responsibility.
Meggin provides an update on her son's current status, discussing his part-time job, challenges, and aspirations. She candidly shares struggles with maintaining hope and the ongoing need for better treatments.

NYU's On Track Family Support Group

Meggin sheds light on her work with NYU's On Track Family Support Group, detailing her role as a family connector and the group's aim to support caregivers.
Meggin highlights the collaborative nature of the mental health community, emphasizing the need for education and understanding among healthcare providers.

Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In concluding the discussion, Meggin encourages openness and compassion in addressing mental health challenges, emphasizing interconnectedness and the need to eliminate shame.

Episode 59: Meggin Part 1 Feb 06, 2024

Show notes

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Meggin Rose"

Introduction: Join us for a powerful and insightful Just A Mom podcast episode as Susie sits down with the remarkable Meggin Rose. In this emotional conversation, Meggin candidly shares her journey as a parent navigating the complex terrain of mental health challenges within her family. From the early signs of her child's struggles to the hurdles of finding appropriate care during a pandemic, Meggin takes us through the heart-wrenching moments of hospitalization, medication challenges, and the delicate balance between advocacy and respecting autonomy.

Background and Family

Meggin provides an overview of her family, residing on a farm outside Ithaca, New York, and touches on her son's mental health struggles during high school.

Early Signs and Challenges

Meggin reflects on the early signs of her child's mental health struggles, initially misattributed to typical adolescence. Challenges escalated during college, leading to serious mental health issues.

Hospitalization and Treatment

Meggin shares the pivotal role of a compassionate psychiatric nurse in securing voluntary hospitalization. The family's connection with OnTrack New York and challenges with medication management are discussed.

Medication Challenges and Advocacy

Meggin discusses the emotional roller coaster of medication changes, highlighting challenges with side effects, non-compliance, and the balance between mental health treatment and autonomy.

Involuntary Hospitalization Challenges

Meggin advocates for changing standards for involuntary hospitalization in psychotic cases, emphasizing the need for a flexible approach.

Parental Feelings and Support

Meggin opens up about intense parental emotions and the importance of seeking support, emphasizing advocacy and trust-building.

Advocacy and Fierce Advocacy Skills

The discussion covers Meggin's advocacy within the mental health care system, addressing challenges and emphasizing the need for family support.

Join us in Part Two to hear more about how:

Psychotic episodes can vary in symptoms and severity, and it is important to seek professional help for diagnosis and treatment.
The impact of mental illness extends to the entire family, and support and understanding are essential for siblings and grandchildren.
Coping and self-care are vital for caregivers, and finding joy in small moments can provide respite from the challenges.
Marriages can be affected by the stress of caring for a loved one with mental illness, but open communication and support can help navigate the difficulties.
Sharing the journey with others who have similar experiences can provide valuable support and understanding.
While hope for the future may fluctuate, advancements in research and treatment offer potential for improved outcomes.
Access to appropriate medications and treatment is crucial, and ongoing research is needed to develop more effective options.
Anosognosia, the lack of awareness of one's mental illness, can complicate treatment and adherence to medication.

Episode 58: Dr. Samantha De Caro, The Renfrew Center Jan 30, 2024

Show notes

Introduction: In this episode of the JAM podcast, we explore eating disorders with Dr. Samantha DeCaro, a licensed clinical psychologist. Dr. DeCaro discusses the prevalence, causes, and prevention of eating disorders, touching on the complex relationship with mental health, anxiety, and depression.

Pandemic's Impact on Eating Disorders:

Isolation during the pandemic contributed to eating disorders.
Increase in social media use, body dissatisfaction, and comparison.
Food insecurity, anxiety, grief, and loss as triggering factors.

Factors Contributing to Eating Disorders:

Social media's role in body image dissatisfaction.
Challenging myths about who can have an eating disorder.
Awareness efforts lead to increased diagnoses.

Populations at Higher Risk:

Elevated risk for those identifying as female.
LGBTQ+ community, victims of weight stigma, and those feeling unsafe at heightened risk.

Difference Between Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating:

Eating disorders as complex psychiatric disorders.
Disordered eating exists on a spectrum, ranging from clinical disorders to healthy relationships with food.

Common Eating Disorder Protective Factors:

Avoiding dieting behaviors, promoting body acceptance.
Encouraging a healthy relationship with food beyond fuel.
Breaking down scarcity mindset and fostering body diversity awareness.

Promoting Healthy Attitudes in Children:

Importance of language around food and body image.
Teaching that all bodies come in different shapes and sizes.
Encouraging connection with body signals and cues.

Recognizing Patterns of Emotional Eating:

Differentiating between occasional comfort eating and problematic patterns.
Suggesting additional coping tools beyond food.

Signs of Eating Disorders:

Intense dissatisfaction with body image.
Increased isolation and anxiety around food.
Preoccupation with ingredients, calories, or cooking without personal consumption.
Presence of depression, rigid thinking, and elevated suicide risk.
Acknowledgment that everyone may experience some form of disordered thoughts or behaviors regarding food and body image.
Dr. DeCaro discusses common signs of eating disorders, emphasizing hyper-focus on food and weight.

Preventing Eating Disorders:

Strategies and protective factors are explored, challenging societal norms and promoting holistic health.
The importance of prioritizing mental health and normalizing mental health treatment is highlighted.
Dr. DeCaro introduces a transdiagnostic approach, emphasizing a multidisciplinary team.

Levels of Care at Renfrew Center:

Overview of residential, day treatment, intensive outpatient programming (IOP), and outpatient care.
Addressing the affordability of treatment and Renfrew Center's acceptance of insurance plans.
Dr. DeCaro hints at a future episode focusing on practical ways parents can help children with a healthy relationship with food.
The episode concludes with gratitude from Susie and Dr. DeCaro for the informative discussion on eating disorders and the importance of mental health care accessibility.

Episode 57: Will Gurley--an update Jan 23, 2024

Show notes

Introduction: Welcome to a special episode of the "Just A Mom" podcast, where we kick off Season Five with a heartfelt and personal update. In today's episode, Susie is excited to be joined in the studio by a very special guest – her son, Will. As Susie expresses her joy at having Will home for the recording, the focus of this episode is centered around providing listeners with a detailed and intimate update on Will's life.

School Journey:

Will details his transition from Shenandoah Conservatory to Mid-American University, studying acting and directing, and anticipated graduation next year.
Will reflects on his time at TCU, the decision to transfer to Shenandoah, and the challenges he faced with anxiety and social circles.

Shenandoah Experience:

Will discusses feeling isolated and the impact on his mental health.
Will candidly opens up about his ongoing mental health struggles, highlighting that transferring to Shenandoah didn't eliminate the challenges.

Support and Intervention:

Susie intervenes after Will expresses depression, ensuring his safety and exploring therapy and medication adjustments.
Will's psychiatrist increases his dosage to address current circumstances, emphasizing the importance of medication adjustments.

Loneliness and Isolation:

Despite a busy schedule, Will shares his experience of loneliness, challenges with roommates, and feeling like an outsider.
Will discusses challenges in classes, rehearsals, and breaking into established relationships as a "freshman sophomore."

Emergency Visit:

Susie narrates the decision to fly Will home during a difficult month, emphasizing the difference between FaceTime and in-person observations.
Will contemplates alternatives to going back to school, expressing determination not to give up and considering job options.

Drive Back Home:

The 16.5-hour drive home reflects on Will's hesitation to return to Shenandoah, navigating a challenging storm, and the importance of being together.
Will shares positive aspects of the summer back home, acknowledging the internal struggle of giving college another try.

Decision to Return to Shenandoah:

Family discussions lead to the decision to encourage another try, emphasizing the importance of auditions and a new class.
Will gets callbacks for several shows at Shenandoah, receiving positive feedback from industry professional professors.
Susie praises Will's lead role as the only non-senior cast, highlighting his experience playing dark characters.

Challenges Faced:

Will reflect on challenges during the rehearsal and performance period, discussing the disconnect between personal values and the adaptation.

Closing Thoughts:

Susie summarizes Will's journey from struggles to returning to Shenandoah, teases upcoming episodes, and expresses gratitude for Will's openness.
Susie asks Will about mental health preparations, leading to discussions on counseling as a couple, premarital counseling, and planning.
Will discusses planning with fiancée Kayley, seeking advice from experienced couples, and staying flexible.

Therapy and Professional Support:

Susie emphasizes Will's ongoing medication and regular psychiatrist visits, recognizing the need for professional help.
Will discusses ongoing therapy with personal therapist Dana Dahl, encouraging everyone to benefit from therapy.
Will emphasizes the importance of being proactive and seeking support, acknowledging that mental health challenges require ongoing effort.

Support System:

Will describes reaching out to his wife, parents, and therapist if needed, emphasizing the importance of a united front.
Discussions highlight the reality of ups and downs in every marriage, with Will emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset.
Will seeks advice from experienced couples, recognizing their wisdom and acknowledging ongoing struggles with depression.

Acknowledging Personal Growth:

Despite ongoing challenges, Will acknowledges personal growth and positive changes, emphasizing the non-linear nature of the mental health journey.
Recap of "The Brightest It's Ever Been":
Susie recaps "The Brightest It's Ever Been," a play about anxiety, sharing its impact and plans for a regional tour.

Fundraising Opportunity:

A fundraising The Culture House link (designate Balladeer Theatre Company) is mentioned for supporting the regional tour, encouraging contributions from those interested in mental health and theater.
Susie shares her impact from the play, urging listeners to attend when it tours and acknowledging bias as the director.

Encouragement and Gratitude:

Susie expresses gratitude for Will's openness, encourages listeners, and emphasizes the non-linear nature of mental health journeys.
Susie mentions potential future updates from Will, thanks listeners for their support, and appreciates Will for the conversation.
Closing remarks express gratitude, anticipation for future episodes, and thanks to the listeners for their support.

Episode 56: Karen Dickson and Kathleen Harnish McKune, Remarkably Resilient (https://teamtechinc.com/remarkably-resilient/) Dec 12, 2023

Show notes

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Kathleen McKune and Karen Dickson"

Introduction: In this insightful episode, Karen and Kathleen, integral members of the resilient Harnish family, join Susie on the Just A Mom Podcast. Co-authors of the impactful book "Remarkably Resilient," the three sisters delve into their experiences, upbringing, and the profound motivation driving the creation of the Remarkably Resilient program. From traumatic discoveries to launching a nationwide initiative, this conversation explores the neuroscience of trauma, coping mechanisms, and the transformative power of resilience.

Background and Introduction:

Karen and Kathleen introduce their family background, authors of "Remarkably Resilient," exploring their upbringing and the motivation behind the program.
Kathleen discovered adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in 2017, leading to a realization about childhood trauma and its impact on mental and physical health.

Remarkably Resilient Program:

Kathleen and Karen discuss launching the program based on their book, aiming to share their story, discuss trauma neuroscience, and build resilience.
Turning point moments for Kathleen and Karen, highlighting their resilience and coping mechanisms in adulthood.

Impact of Trauma on Health:

Discussion on ACEs' impact on mental and physical health, sharing the sisters' experiences and positive counterbalances.
Susie empathizes with the sisters, acknowledging the lifelong impact of trauma and discussing the challenges faced by survivors.
Delving into the neurobiology of trauma, stress responses, and the importance of addressing trauma for well-being.
Kathleen and Karen share their survival journeys, emphasizing the importance of boundaries and self-regulation.

Empathy and Understanding:

Susie expresses understanding for the sisters' experiences, highlighting the need to break the silence around trauma.

Difficult Summer and Impact on Kathleen:

Challenges faced by Kathleen and Karen during a difficult summer led to a purpose-driven focus on helping others.

Interview Challenges:

Anecdote about challenges in discussing sensitive topics on mainstream media.

Sharing Their Experience and Helping Others:

Emphasis on not staying silent, motivation to help others, and the importance of shedding light on often hidden topics.

Dysregulation and Coping Mechanisms:

Introduction to dysregulation, recognizing triggers, and employing regulating techniques.
Discussion on emotional regulation, mindfulness activities, and preventing impulsive reactions.
Exploration of individual coping mechanisms during childhood, including dissociation and the therapeutic use of work.
Challenges in remembering traumatic experiences, differences in coping mechanisms, and the impact of therapy.
Acknowledgment of coping mechanisms and the role of therapists in the healing process.

Four Rs of Resilience:

Introduction to the Four Rs of Resilience: Relationships, Regulation, Response, Recovery, and Their Significance.
Launching Remarkably Resilient Together with Johnson County Mental Health Center, emphasizing community awareness and resources.

Supporting Organizations:

Kathleen and Karen express their dream of widespread adoption, mentioning collaboration with schools and corporate support.
Susie encourages engagement with local providers, schools, and corporations to support well-being.

Program Launch and Availability:

Details on the program launch and material availability through remarkably-resilient.com, emphasizing donation for access.
Discussion on donations and accessing materials, providing instructions for support outside Johnson County.
Availability of information on various platforms, including Google and remarkably-resilient.com.
Susie urges listeners to explore and support the program, highlighting its universal benefits.

Self-Care Discussion:

Kathleen shares personal experiences of trauma and emphasizes the impact of self-care on resilience and well-being.
Karen discusses the transformative impact of prioritizing self-care, reflecting on personal experiences.
Susie expresses gratitude for sharing their story, praising Kathleen and Karen for resilience, and guests express appreciation.

Episode 55: Wesley Hamilton, Disabled But Not Really (https://disabledbutnotreally.org/) Part 2 Dec 05, 2023

Show notes

Podcast Episode 2 Show Notes: "Wesley Hamilton"

Introduction: The last episode of the Just a Mom podcast captures the life story of Kansas City native Wesley Hamilton. The episode explores Wesley's mental struggles, including battles with depression, hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts amid a lack of mental health support. Wesley Hamilton's impactful foundation, "Disabled But Not Really," takes center stage in this episode. Founded to empower individuals with disabilities, the foundation prioritizes fitness, identity, and confidence-building. Offering a wellness center with specialized programs, Wesley ensures a space where physical disabilities don't limit self-perception and fitness goals. The foundation tackles the issue of inaccessible gyms by providing an inclusive environment with adaptive equipment and accessible facilities.

Disabled But Not Really Foundation:

Wesley founded the "Disabled But Not Really Foundation" to empower individuals with disabilities, focusing on fitness, identity, and building confidence.
The foundation offers a wellness center with specialized programs to help individuals with physical disabilities improve their self-perception and fitness.
Wesley's own experiences in inaccessible gyms and the lack of awareness in society influenced his approach to creating an inclusive space at his wellness center.
The center is equipped with adaptive equipment, widened doors, and accessible facilities, striving to serve individuals with various challenges and disabilities.
The foundation's programs not only focus on physical fitness but also on helping individuals with disabilities regain their sense of identity and confidence.
Wesley's ultimate goal is to ensure that people of all abilities feel welcomed, empowered, and served by providing adaptive equipment and inclusive facilities.

Wesley's Efforts for Accessibility:

Wesley discusses the importance of creating accessible public spaces for individuals with disabilities.
His foundation, Disabled But Not Really, aims to eliminate barriers in these spaces, allowing people to focus on their goals.

Becoming a TV Star:

Wesley talks about his unexpected experience of being featured on "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy."
Emphasizes the authenticity of the show and his continued friendship and collaboration with the cast.

Family Support:

Wesley acknowledges the crucial role of his mother and daughter in his recovery and healing.
Highlights the strength and support of his mother during his journey.

Words of Advice:

Wesley's advice to listeners revolves around self-awareness, encouraging them to know themselves.
He emphasizes that self-awareness is key to shaping one's reality.

Mental Health Advocacy:

Wesley shares his growing awareness of mental health issues, especially within marginalized communities.
Discusses the importance of addressing mental health and seeking help when needed.

Self-Care:

Wesley outlines his self-care routine, which includes affirmations, morning gratitude, exercise, a healthy diet, journaling, and having a venting person and a confidant.

Challenges in Accessing Mental Health Services:

Wesley highlights the lack of mental health services and awareness in marginalized communities.
Advocates for a more holistic approach to healthcare.

The Value of Life:

Wesley talks about how confidence in oneself allows for a fulfilling life, regardless of physical condition.
Emphasizes the importance of valuing life and maintaining a positive mindset.

Acknowledgment of One's Past:

Wesley appreciates the depth of the conversation and the significance of understanding one's past to appreciate personal growth.

Gratitude and Inspiration:

The episode concludes with mutual appreciation, with Susie commending Wesley for his inspirational journey and positive impact through his foundation and advocacy.

Episode 54 : Wesley Hamilton, Disabled But Not Really (https://disabledbutnotreally.org/) part 1 Nov 28, 2023

Show notes

Introduction: In this episode of the Just a Mom podcast, host Susie welcomes Wesley Hamilton, a Kansas City native known for his personal struggles, foundation work, and TV stardom. Wesley reflects on his upbringing as a product of his challenging environment, growing up without his father, and battling low self-esteem and negative thinking. He shares how he once believed he wouldn't live past 21 due to societal expectations for young black men. Becoming a father marked a turning point, but an altercation led to a life-altering shooting incident, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. The episode explores Wesley's journey from hopelessness to resilience.

Background and Upbringing

Wesley describes his upbringing as a product of his environment.
Grew up in a single-parent home without a father figure during crucial adolescent stages.
Struggled with self-esteem, lacked positive role models, and felt the impact of the inner city environment.
Admits to being influenced by older figures in the streets and developing a negative mindset.
Believed he wouldn't live past 21 due to societal expectations for young black men.
Highlights the challenges of growing up in an environment that limited his perspective.

Living Recklessly and Seeking Change

Discusses the allure of the streets, drug dealers, and the desire for a better life.
Emphasizes the lack of positive influences and role models, leading to a misguided pursuit of success.
Reflects on his disregard for education despite having potential and smart capabilities.
Talks about dropping out of school, attempting to change his life through Job Corps, and facing challenges.
Expresses the impact of poverty and the absence of exposure to life outside his community.
Discusses the negative mindset, feeling trapped, and the influence of media representations.

Becoming a Father and Pivotal Moment

Becoming a father at 22 and gaining full custody of his daughter at 23.
Highlights the unexpected shift in responsibility and the desire to be a better father.
Recounts a verbal altercation at 24 that resulted in a life-changing event.
Describes being shot twice, instantly paralyzed from the waist down.
Shares the immediate realization of the severity of the situation and the surreal experience.
Recalls the moments after being shot, the lack of hope, and the acceptance of impending death.

Living with Depression and Hopelessness

Reflects on the possibility of living a life in depression and hopelessness.
Acknowledges the lack of hope and role models contributing to a sense of resignation.

Mental Struggles

Wesley reflects on his mental state before the shooting, feeling hopeless and battling low self-esteem, influenced by societal judgment and a lack of empowerment.

Facing Reality

Wesley discusses the early days of realizing he was paralyzed, the initial hope of a miraculous recovery, and the emotional toll of the uncertainty during the recovery process.
Exploration of Wesley's loss of hope and faith after learning about the permanence of his condition, the absence of positive representations of people with disabilities in society, and his struggle with self-love and acceptance amid societal judgments.

Suicidal Thoughts and Lack of Mental Health Support

Wesley opens up about contemplating suicide, the struggle of feeling like a victim after surviving a violent incident, and the lack of mental health support for individuals with disabilities, particularly in the black community.
Surprising revelation: Wesley did not receive counseling or therapy during his recovery. Discussion on the systemic issue of mental health support for black individuals with disabilities and the layers of challenges in addressing mental health in marginalized communities.

Self-Healing Journey

Wesley's self-healing journey the role of food in his mental recovery, overcoming depression through dietary changes, and the challenges faced during bed rest and their impact on mental health.
The importance of protein and nutrition in Wesley's recovery, the lack of awareness about proper nutrition in marginalized communities, and Wesley's decision to pursue education in dietetics to transform his life.
Wesley's eagerness to learn and change his perspective on life, the revelation of the value of food and its impact on well-being, and applying newfound knowledge to his diet and seeing positive results.

Coming Up:

In the next part of the series, we will explore Wesley's continued transformation, his advocacy work, and the valuable lessons he has learned from his remarkable journey.

Episode 53: Rennie McKinney, Administrative Director of Behavioral Health Services, AdventHealth Shawnee Mission Nov 21, 2023

Show notes

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Rennie McKinney"

Introduction: In this "Just A Mom" podcast episode, Susie engages with guest Rennie McKinney, Administrative Director of Behavioral Health Services at Advent Health Shawnee Mission. They delve into the evolving landscape of mental health, influenced by reduced stigma, younger generations' openness, and the media's role.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health is highlighted, with a focus on enduring effects and a call for increased mental health awareness.

Rennie discusses Advent Health's services, including inpatient units, assessment centers, and expansion plans. They touch on reduced licensing requirements for mental health professionals and introduce the 988 crisis helpline for immediate support.

The episode concludes with a strong message: seeking help is a sign of strength, and it's vital to break the stigma around mental health.

About Rennie McKinney:

Rennie describes her role as the leader of the behavioral health service line at Advent Health and her journey in the mental health field.

Acknowledging Rennie’s Impact:

The host acknowledges Rennie's impact on the community and their shared experiences on panels.

Importance of Sharing Information:

Rennie emphasizes the importance of sharing information and stories for the benefit of others.

Call to Action:

Both the host and Rennie stress the need for more people to join their efforts in addressing mental health issues.

Changing Landscape of Mental Health:

The discussion shifts to the increasing demand for mental health treatment and support.
Factors contributing to this change are mentioned.

Discussion on Changing Mental Health Landscape:

The conversation revolves around the changing landscape of mental health, including reduced stigma.
The impact of external pressures on mental health recognition is discussed.

Media's Role in Promoting Mental Health:

The podcast host acknowledges the role of media outlets in promoting mental health awareness.

Younger Generations Leading the Way:

The younger generations' role in normalizing mental health discussions is highlighted.
The impact of celebrities openly discussing mental health is mentioned.

Pandemic's Impact on Mental Health:

The impact of the pandemic on mental health is discussed.

Discussion on the Class of 2023:

The host highlights the unique experiences of the class of 2023 and the impact of the pandemic on students.

Impact of the Pandemic on Different Age Groups:

Personal experiences and observations regarding the pandemic's impact on different age groups are shared.

Long-Term Ramifications of the Pandemic:

The conversation underscores the long-term ramifications of the pandemic on mental health.

Overview of Services Provided by Advent Health:

An overview of mental health services provided by Advent Health is given.
The existence of an intensive outpatient program is teased, with further details to come.

Description of Mental Health Programs: