Honestly Mental, the podcast

Episode #14: NPE: Not Parent Expected - Bio Dad & PHP Updates

🎧 Episode #14: NPE: Not Parent Expected - Bio Dad & PHP Updates 🎧

 

Erika Diaz delves into her experience as an NPE (Not Parent Expected) from a recent direct-to-consumer DNA test. She was initially searching for information on her medical outlook when she discovered the unexpected surprise, turning her world upside-down.

 

Erika shares how she navigated this revelation, which led her to participate in a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for a second time. Through Marsha Linehan’s Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), the foundation of most PHPs, she was able to work through the difficult emotions she was experiencing.

 

Hear about Erika’s resilience and reclaiming of her mental wellness following the program, along with tools to add to your toolkit when experiencing a crisis. She explains how daily practice will help you recall those tools in distressing moments.

 

Episode Highlights:

🧠 Understand how dialectical thinking can shift negative thought cycles

🧘🏽‍♀️ Learn how to practice mindful self-compassion & loving kindness

✅ Checking the facts can help work through distressing emotions

💡 Use opposite action to assist in changing unhelpful behaviors for better

 

Please subscribe, rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you!

 

#honestlymental #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness

Episode #13: Turning Someday into Today - No Burnout Required: Self-Care & Support Systems

🎧 Episode #13: Turning Someday into Today - No Burnout Required: Self-Care & Support Systems 🎧

Erika Diaz and Amanda Riffee’s conversation centers around the crucial topics of self-care, burnout identification, and the pivotal role of seeking support. Amanda Riffee shares personal insights into her own experiences with burnout, detailing how she effectively manages it through a network of therapies, coaching sessions, and health guidance.

Both Erika and Amanda emphasize the significance of setting firm boundaries, steering clear of people-pleasing tendencies, and nurturing self-compassion as vital measures for both preventing and managing burnout. They explore these practices as essential pillars of resilience.

Amanda elaborates on her proactive decision-making approach, highlighting the efficiency gains and energy conservation achieved by promptly resolving choices, while acknowledging that individual preferences vary. Erika chimes in by discussing common dilemmas such as dinner decisions and reflecting on personal growth journeys, particularly in business ownership.

Amanda further underscores the transformative role of her coaches, who not only aid in business strategy but also provide invaluable support in mindset shifts and overcoming self-limiting beliefs. She underscores the value of a robust support network comprising therapists, business coaches, and health advisors, essential for balancing stress and achieving holistic wellness.

Throughout their discussion, Amanda emphasizes the profound non-monetary returns of coaching, likening it to investments in personal development akin to material purchases. Their dialogue encourages listeners to contemplate thoughtfully on decision-making, financial priorities, and the expansive benefits of coaching for personal growth.

Episode Highlights:
😞 Identifying burnout symptoms - both physical and mental manifestations
💪🏽 The importance of support systems in various facets of life
🧘🏽‍♀️ Fostering personal growth through self-care practices and professional guidance
🌟 Is coaching right for you? How to find the right coach

Please subscribe, rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you!

#honestlymental #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness 

Episode #12: Rage to Relief - Recognizing Atypical Depression in Men

🎧 Episode #12: Rage to Relief - Recognizing Atypical Depression in Men 🎧

 

Erika Diaz and Collin Williams address the critical issue of mental health and suicide prevention. Their conversation underscores the importance of openly discussing mental health to reduce stigma and improve statistics. Erika mentions that suicide is the seventh leading cause of death among men and suggests that this figure may have increased since the data was recorded.

 

Collin vulnerably shares about his personal experience with mental health and how his symptoms manifested in his situation. You’ll want to listen in to hear how he uncovered his atypical symptoms, along with how he addressed them on his journey. 

 

Collin supports Erika’s points by sharing that seeking help is crucial. He recalls how his general practitioner provided valuable support and medication, and referred him to recommended therapists. Erika and Collin emphasize that a general practitioner can offer comprehensive oversight of one’s health and guide patients through the overwhelming process of finding a therapist. Collin notes a positive trend where medical practitioners now routinely ask patients questions about depression, helping to normalize mental health discussions. He points out that emergency rooms can also be a resource for those without a general practitioner, providing necessary help and referrals.

 

Episode Highlights:

😞 Depression symptoms can vary wildly from person to person - and may seem atypical

🩺 Leverage your primary care physician for help if you are unsure where to start

💪🏽 Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness

🗣️ Therapy can help individuals unlock the best version of themselves

 

Please subscribe, rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you!

 

#honestlymental #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness 

Episode #11: Sweat & Self-Esteem - Conquering Self-Doubt

🎧 Episode #11: Sweat & Self-Esteem - Conquering Self-Doubt 🎧

 

Erika Diaz and Christie Heintz take a deep dive into their personal journeys with therapy and the profound impact it has had on their lives.

 

Christie shares her experience with marriage counseling during her divorce process some time ago. She reflects on how therapy provided her with invaluable tools to navigate the complexities of ending a marriage while maintaining mutual respect and understanding. Despite the ultimate decision to divorce, Christie underscores the therapist’s role in facilitating communication and helping her and her ex-husband navigate their new relationship as co-parents.

 

Erika shares her perspective on therapy as well, emphasizing its role in her personal growth and understanding of herself. She discusses how therapy has helped her develop healthier coping mechanisms and manage stress more effectively. Both Erika and Christie highlight the importance of therapy not only in times of crisis but also as a tool for continuous self-improvement and introspection.

 

Christie expresses gratitude for her supportive husband and family, who have been instrumental in her emotional well-being throughout her journey. She describes how their understanding and encouragement have been crucial in helping her navigate challenges and pursue personal goals.

 

They conclude by emphasizing the value of community and supportive networks in promoting mental health and overall happiness. Whether through fitness communities or personal relationships, Erika and Christie stress the importance of surrounding oneself with understanding and supportive individuals who contribute positively to one’s well-being.

 

Overall, their discussion highlights the transformative power of therapy and supportive relationships in fostering personal growth, resilience, and happiness.

 

Episode Highlights:

💪🏽 Healthy coping mechanisms support mental wellness and personal growth

💞 Importance of a supportive community and relationships

🗣️ Therapy can help individuals unlock their best version of themselves

💻 Prioritizing mental health in the workplace is demonstrated by leading by example

 

Please subscribe, rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you!

 

#honestlymental #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness 

Episode #10: Work Became My Identity - Then It Broke Me

🎧 Episode #10: Work Became My Identity - Then It Broke Me 🎧

 

Erika recently had the esteemed honor of speaking at the American Staffing Association’s THRIVE Virtual event in May. She delivered a compelling speed talk titled “How Work Became My Identity - Then It Broke Me.” This week’s podcast episode features her speech, allowing everyone to hear her cautionary tale.

 

In this episode, Erika shares her journey of how her identity became intertwined with her work persona, leading to a mental health crisis in 2023. She reflects on the experiences that shaped her, beginning with her entry into the workforce at just 14 years old.

 

Erika opens up about her personal story and highlights warning signs that you might be tying your identity too closely to your work. She also offers tools and strategies to help separate your work persona from your true self, aiming to help others avoid the struggles she faced.

 

As always, with her characteristic vulnerability and honesty, Erika delivers a message you won’t want to miss. Tune in to learn from her experiences and insights.

 

Episode Highlights:
🫶🏽 You are born worthy, loved, and enough!
⚠️ Warning signs of tying your identity to work
⛓️‍💥 Learn how to untether your self-worth from work and productivity
💁🏽‍♀️ Leaders can impact mental wellness by fostering an environment of empathy

 

Please subscribe, rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you!

Episode #9: The Impact of Mental Health on Marriage & Family

🎧 Episode #9: The Impact of Mental Health on Marriage & Family 🎧 Erika and her husband, Sergio, host this special episode to offer an honest look into their marriage and how mental health has shaped their lives and family. They delve into how Erika’s suicidal thoughts and ideation have affected Sergio as a husband and father to their two boys, Jude, 11, and Oliver, 3. Erika and Sergio emphasize the importance of having open, age-appropriate conversations about mental health with their children to foster a safe environment and break the stigmas surrounding mental health. Reflecting on their 15 years together, they share stories of perseverance and courage in maintaining their relationship. They candidly discuss overcoming challenges, including a potential divorce following a trial separation and a cross-country move to save their marriage and keep their family intact. Tune in to this episode for an authentic look at the real impacts mental health has had on their relationship and family. Episode Highlights: 🫶🏽 Mental illness affects the whole family, especially the immediate family unit  👦🏽 Age appropriate conversations with children regarding mental health ✨ Marriage isn’t easy, adding in mental illness can complicate relationships 💞 Leveraging your support system is essential to mental wellness Please subscribe, rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you!  

Episode #8: Betting On Yourself?

🎧 Episode# 8: Betting On Yourself? 🎧

Therese Gopaul-Robinson and Erika Diaz engage in a profound exploration of personal and professional growth, touching on various themes such as vulnerability, imposter syndrome, self-belief, resilience, and authenticity. Therese shares her insights and experiences from her entrepreneurial journey, offering valuable lessons learned along the way.

They explore the significance of vulnerability as a catalyst for building genuine connections and fostering meaningful relationships, both in personal and professional spheres. Therese emphasizes the transformative power of vulnerability in creating spaces for authenticity and empathy to thrive.

The conversation also addresses imposter syndrome, a common challenge faced by many individuals, especially in competitive environments or when venturing into new endeavors. Therese and Erika discuss strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, such as reframing negative self-talk and seeking support from mentors and communities.

Therese’s entrepreneurial journey serves as a backdrop for exploring themes of resilience and self-belief. She shares the challenges she encountered when starting her business and underscores the importance of perseverance and self-confidence in navigating obstacles and seizing opportunities for growth.

Throughout the dialogue, there is a recurring theme of embracing change and viewing life as a continuous journey of self-discovery and reinvention. Therese encourages listeners to approach life with a growth mindset, recognizing each chapter as an opportunity for personal and professional development.

Episode Highlights:

🫶🏽 Navigating the grief associated with being laid off

👊🏼 Strategies for overcoming self-doubt & embracing vulnerability

✨ Exploring the paradox of imposter syndrome

💞 Belief in oneself and the ability to overcome challenges is essential for personal growth

Please rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you!

Episode #7: Challenging the Status Quo - Men’s Mental Health

🎧 Episode# 7: Challenging the Status Quo: Mens Mental Health 🎧

I loved this conversation with Mickey Pelletier! It was rich and diverse, covering various aspects of emotions, resilience, and mental health. We shared personal anecdotes, including experiences of job loss and its emotional impact, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and processing such events. 

We delved into the complexities of mental health, particularly focusing on destigmatization and the need for increased awareness, especially concerning men’s mental well-being. Empathy emerged as a central theme, with discussions on its role in providing support and fostering personal growth. 

Overall, we explored how acknowledging and understanding our emotions can lead to greater resilience and well-being, underscoring the importance of building strong support networks and seeking professional help when needed.

Episode Highlights:

👤 Societal & generational pressures regarding men’s mental health

💪🏽 Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness

🫶🏽 Navigating the grief associated with being laid off

👧🏼 Vulnerability in parenthood & wanting to be the best for our children

Please rate and review Honestly Mental. It helps the show grow. The more people we can reach, the more people we can help. That is our overall goal, to help as many people as we can. Thank you!