S8E1 - A Journey Through Mental Health and Identity; Paula's Reflections on Spirituality, Community, and Healing #MayIsMentalHealthAwarenessMonth

There are moments when the weight of our personal battles can feel unbearable, particularly when dealing with the complexities of mental health so join me, Paula, as I share my emotional journey with Depression that fueled my commitment to Mental Health. I'll take you through the peaks and valleys of my mental health touching on the raw experiences that have shaped me—from battling depression to finding strength in God and spirituality. 

This isn't just my story; it's also shared moments from the advice of friends across cultures, the sanctuary I found in faith, and the empowering sense of community built through 'Life with P' as the journey through the labyrinth of identity, culture, and mental well-being can be a solitary one; yet, when shared, it becomes a beacon of hope and understanding. 

I'll unravel the nuanced relationship between my upbringing and my current self, celebrating the transformative power of setting healthy boundaries and maintaining friendships that encourage growth. The formation of 'Life with P' stands as a testament to authenticity, solidarity, and the courage to embrace oneself, unapologetically. 

Through personal anecdotes and the support of those around me, I've navigated breakups, global crises, and the stark reality of depression without medication, finding solace in therapy and the simple act of starting my podcast which turned to be therapeutic.

As we step into Mental Health Awareness Month, I extend an open invitation to you, my listeners, to join me in fostering a space where we can heal and grow together. 

I'll share the benefits of therapy, self-care techniques for combating stress, and the power of intentional actions that pave the way to a more fulfilled life. Whether it's taking a walk to clear your mind or finding peace in 'trash TV,' remember that it's okay to not be okay. 

& Together, let's embrace the color green in solidarity and engage in conversations that destigmatize mental health struggles. Here’s to a month of reflection, connection, and support.

Nami “National Alliance on Mental Illness” has a Social Media Mental Health Awareness Campaign:- Share why or how you are taking moment to prioritize your Mental Health. Use the hashtag #TakeAMenta

Chapters

• 0:00 Mental Health Awareness and Personal Journey
• 6:29 Navigating Depression and Uncertainty
• 15:09 Navigating Depression and Faith Journey
• 31:27 Navigating Depression and Healing Journeys
• 45:26 Learning to Grow and Let Go
• 50:16 Mental Health Journey and Growth