Unlearn The Lies About Mental Health

Mental health is a multidimensional aspect of our well-being, encompassing emotional, psychological, and social facets. Hence, it prompts us to view individuals not through the narrow lens of diagnoses but as complex beings with diverse emotional, psychological, and social needs.

However, many people fail to separate the person who struggles with their mental health from the labels imposed by diagnoses. As our guest speaker aptly points out, changing the narrative from "that person is a drug addict" to "that person struggles with addiction" is a pivotal shift in language that reflects a more compassionate and accurate understanding. By acknowledging the struggle rather than defining the person by it, we break down the misconceptions surrounding mental health. Together, let's contribute to breaking down barriers, nurturing connections, and ultimately, creating a world where mental health is viewed with empathy, openness, and a commitment to holistic well-being.

In this episode, we want to help listeners gain a deeper understanding of the critical components involved in fostering mental health and well-being, both at an individual and community level. We aim to unravel the intricacies of mental health services, the impact of personal stories, and the significance of breaking down stigmas surrounding mental health conditions. Through the exploration of real-life examples and practical advice, we aspire to empower our audience with the tools needed to identify signs of struggle in youth, create a supportive environment, and contribute to the unlearning of prevalent misconceptions about mental health. Join us on this enlightening journey as we navigate the complexities of mental health, challenge stereotypes, and provide valuable insights that can foster a more compassionate and understanding society.

Today, we're joined by Nathalie Williams, a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with over a decade of experience in mental health and substance abuse services. She has worked with individuals of all age groups, offering support for a wide range of diagnoses across various treatment settings, including in-home, outpatient, inpatient crisis stabilization, and residential care. Nathalie's expertise extends to co-occurring disorders, trauma survivors, high utilizers of behavioral health services, PTSD, offenders, homeless individuals, and those with developmental disabilities. She provides individual and family counseling, group counseling, crisis prevention, assessments, and case management.

In addition to her clinical work, Nathalie has extensive management experience, overseeing programs such as outpatient services, case management, residential group homes, psychiatric support services, and an intensive in-home program for at-risk youth. As the Director of Outpatient Services and Case Management at Lakeview Center of Walton County, Nathalie is dedicated to improving the well-being of her clients. Her career is characterized by a commitment to using evidence-based therapies, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to provide effective and transformative techniques. Throughout her journey, Nathalie's work embodies the resilience and strength of the human spirit, empowering individuals to overcome even the most challenging circumstances.

“Learning how to make our language more accepting and warmer and making a person feel like the individual that they are, it is a key component to breaking the stigma around mental health.” – Nathalie Williams

Show Highlights:

(00:00:00) Episode disclaimer, highlight, and introduction

(00:02:11) Welcoming today's guest, Nathalie Williams.

(00:04:41) How did you go from Chicago to Pensacola?

(00:06:25) How did Nathalie’s purpose change?

(00:09:11) Importance of self-awareness

(00:11:13) Nathalie’s role in Lakeview Center

(00:14:17) The Baker Act

(00:17:00) The difference of inpatient and outpatient care

(00:20:34) Transitioning between the different levels of care.

(00:24:40) Prioritize safety

(00:26:12) The Community Action Program

(00:28:37) Stigma and shame around seeking mental health services

(00:31:08) This episode is powered by Speaks to Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses nationwide.

(00:31:58) Starting a girls group home

(00:34:29) Treat people as human beings

(00:36:33) How can we eradicate mental health stigma?

(00:33:29) Separates the person from the diagnosis

(00:41:15) What is mental health to Nathalie Williams?

(00:42:50) How can parents and teachers better support their youth

(00:45:00) Where to connect with Kate?

(00:47:03) Free Guide: https://speaks2inspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Speaks-2-Inspire-guide_14-ways-to-support-your-students-mental-health.pdf

(00:47:23) If you need that support for your mental health, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 9-8-8 now. For local and national resources, go tohttp://www.speaks2inspire.com/resources. Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group:https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

Key Takeaways:

“Everyone has an individual experience, a unique story. They need unique support. And in order for us to really meet those needs, collaboration must be a part of the picture.” – Abraham Sculley

“If someone you know, or love is talking about things in a way that's a safety concern immediately, get help. Take it seriously.” – Nathalie Williams

“I think one of the challenges that we hear or see a lot is not necessarily that there's a lack of resources, but there is no awareness of what resources are accessible. And so, we're not taking advantage of these resources because we don't even know they exist.” – Abraham Sculley

“We are not our addiction. We are a person who struggles with those things just like you might struggle with diabetes.” – Nathalie Williams

“It's being observant, it's making people feel heard and being aware of how our communication and language impacts one another.” – Nathalie Williams

“Mental health is our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It's how we think, it's how we feel, it's how we act, it's how we relate to other people and that is a full picture, the full person which we go back to from the beginning.” – Nathalie Williams

“Be present, be mindful on how a small act of kindness goes a long way for here.” – Nathalie Williams

Connect with Nathalie via the following:

· Website: https://www.lifeviewgroup.org/

· Email: [email protected]

. LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathalie-williams-7232a816/

. CTA: https://www.lifeviewgroup.org/

Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health is Hosted by Abraham Sculley.

· Contact Speaks 2 Inspire to learn about S2I programs:https://speaks2inspire.com/services/.

· Mental health resources for students:https://speaks2inspire.com/resources/.

· Connect with Abraham on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/abrahamsculley/.

· Order a copy of Unlearn the Lies athttps://amzn.to/32B2jRh.

· Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group:https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

• 14 Ways to Support Your Students' Mental Health [free guide] -https://bit.ly/mentalhealthguide4

This episode is powered by Speaks 2 Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses across the nation. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Crisis Text Line by texting "Home" to 741741 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255.

Schools are the hub of a community. In our present era, understanding the holistic well-being of students, from academic to personal struggles, becomes paramount. However, the disconnect between parents, students, and schools is a widespread issue that impedes this whole-child growth. This disconnection often arises from a lack of understanding about the challenges students face, particularly regarding family issues and mental health concerns.

To address this disconnection, we must adopt a whole-child approach that goes beyond academic achievements, believes that education should focus on the social, emotional, and psychological aspects of students' lives, and recognizes that a student's overall well-being is intertwined with their academic success. Hence, as we navigate the complexities of the educational landscape, the whole-child approach serves as a guiding principle, urging educators, parents, and schools to embrace a more comprehensive perspective. By acknowledging the needs of students, we pave the way for an educational experience that not only imparts knowledge but also nurtures emotional intelligence, resilience, and a profound sense of connection among parents, students, and schools.

In this episode, we want to help listeners gain a deeper understanding of the challenges students face when dealing with family issues and mental health concerns and also to explore ways on how we can bridge the gap between parents, students, and schools. To equip our audience with practical strategies in supporting students facing adversity at home, we empower educators and parents through a role-play scenario on how effective communication helps students overcome challenges. Join us in this episode as we navigate the complexities of student well-being, learn the importance of validating students' experiences, fostering open communication, and the significance of maintaining a balance between home and school dynamics. Tune in today as we embark on this enlightening exploration, providing valuable insights and empowering knowledge.

Today, we're joined by Kate Estefan, a current school counselor with 20 years of experience in public education. Mission-driven and whole-child-centered, Kate is committed to building a positive school climate and culture for students to achieve academically, socially, and emotionally. Through her tenure in this profession, Kate has provided individual and small group counseling, developed a counseling curriculum, led crisis management teams, advised student leadership groups, and has been involved in the implementation of MTSS and SEL content delivery. In addition to NH Educator Certification, Kate is a National Certified Counselor and National Certified School Counselor.

"Mental health is whole health, it's part of our daily health. It's all in the same boat and I don't think you can have one without the other." – Kate Estefan

Show Highlights:

(00:00:00) Episode disclaimer, highlight, and introduction

(00:02:21) Welcoming today's guest, Kate Estefan.

(00:03:34) The passionate School Counselor: Who is Kate Estefan?

(00:07:04) Backstory: How Kate became a school counselor

(00:11:55) The whole-child approach

(00:13:45) Considering various aspects in addressing student’s challenges

(00:16:59) Educators are in a tough role.

(00:18:24) The Counseling Role Play

(00:26:13) Curiosity

(00:27:00) Offer a safe place

(00:29:36) This episode is powered by Speaks to Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses nationwide.

(00:30:23) The disconnection between parents, students, and schools

(00:33:12) How can we eradicate mental health stigma?

(00:33:54) What is mental health to Kate Estefan?

(00:35:08) Where to connect with Kate?

(00:35:50) Free Guide: https://speaks2inspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Speaks-2-Inspire-guide_14-ways-to-support-your-students-mental-health.pdf

(00:36:38) If you need that support for your mental health, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 9-8-8 now. For local and national resources, go to http://www.speaks2inspire.com/resources. Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group: https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

Key Takeaways:

"Having that figure of an individual in our lives where we see them as a superhuman as they inspire the trajectory of our lives and the direction that we choose to take." – Abraham Sculley

"My plan was all laid out as a college student until life happened and the plan completely changed, but it changed for the better." – Abraham Sculley

"Children are not just their academics, they're not just kind of their peer relations, they're not just their environment at home, they are the entire piece and everything impacts them." – Kate Estefan

"A lot of challenges I hear from educators is that they're afraid to even have the conversation because they don't know what may come up." – Abraham Sculley

"Educators are in a tough role, especially in the classroom to meet the needs of all of their students and it's hard to know how far to go, and where to go." – Kate Estefan

"You have to come from a standpoint of not being judgmental and just being open and listening and meeting the person where they're at." – Kate Estefan

"A lot of times people aren't looking for us to fix things, they're just looking to be heard." – Kate Estefan

"It is the school's responsibility to increase that communication with the community and with home." – Kate Estefan

Connect with Kate via the following:

· Website: https://maitricounselingcenter.com/

· Email: [email protected]

. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kgestefan/

. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-greene-estefan-ms-ncc-ncsc-a0611893/

Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health is Hosted by Abraham Sculley.

· Contact Speaks 2 Inspire to learn about S2I programs: https://speaks2inspire.com/services/.

· Mental health resources for students: https://speaks2inspire.com/resources/.

· Connect with Abraham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abrahamsculley/.

· Order a copy of Unlearn the Lies at https://amzn.to/32B2jRh.

· Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group: https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

• 14 Ways to Support Your Students' Mental Health [free guide] - https://bit.ly/mentalhealthguide4

This episode is powered by Speaks 2 Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses across the nation. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Crisis Text Line by texting "Home" to 741741 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255.

Trauma is a complex phenomenon that goes beyond just the stereotypical "big" events. It encompasses a wide range of experiences, including what some might consider smaller stressors. In its broader definition, trauma includes any experience that overwhelms us, whether it's too much, too soon, too much for too long, or too little for too long.

Moreover, it is vital to recognize that the impact of trauma is not limited to mental health but also has a profound physical effect on the body. To foster a more trauma-informed society, we must create a supportive and sensitive environment where people can receive the understanding and care they need to heal.

In this episode, we want to help listeners gain valuable insights into the transformative power of trauma-informed care and bottom-up approaches to mental health. We'll explore success stories, practical techniques, and ways to overcome stigma, all to foster a deeper understanding of how these approaches can bring about positive change in individuals' lives. The discussion also touches on the importance of recognizing and understanding trauma, the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and the significance of having a safe and supportive person or environment to process trauma. Tune in today as we embark on this enlightening exploration, providing valuable insights and empowering knowledge.

Today, we're joined by Kerry Whiteley, a pre-licensed professional, counselor, facilitator, and engaging speaker guiding individuals on a journey of uncovering hidden strengths, rewriting narratives, processing trauma, and honing new skills. With a unique blend of Somatic Integration and Processing, Mindfulness-based CBT, EMDR, Complex Trauma Treatment, and an array of other transformative techniques, Kerry's approach is a wellspring of healing. Kerry firmly believes in the unconquerable human spirit, showcasing the resilience that empowers individuals to conquer even the most daunting circumstances.

"The broad definition of trauma is anything that is too much too soon, too much for too long, or too little for too long." – Kerry Whiteley

Show Highlights:

(00:00:00) Episode disclaimer, highlight, and introduction

(00:03:01) Welcoming today's guest, Kerry Whiteley.

(00:06:00) Who is Kerry Whiteley?

(00:11:28) Reconsider the diagnosis approach.

(00:13:44) The importance of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders

(00:15:52) What truly is trauma?

(00:19:58) The Adverse Childhood Experiences

(00:22:12) The Body Keeps the Score

(00:23:49) What does it mean to be trauma-informed?

(00:28:51) This episode is powered by Speaks to Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses nationwide.

(00:29:36) How can educators create a safe place for their students?

(00:32:25) Introduce journaling as a therapeutic practice

(00:36:32) Exploring trauma-informed care

(00:39:42) How can EMDR transform trauma?

(00:43:15) Not all therapists are created equally.

(00:46:55) How has Kerry's counseling impacted people's lives?

(00:51:20) How can we eradicate mental health stigma?

(00:54:38) What is mental health to Kerry Whiteley?

(00:56:20) Where to connect with Kerry?

(00:59:13) If you need that support for your mental health, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 9-8-8 now. For local and national resources, go tohttp://www.speaks2inspire.com/resources. Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group:https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

Key Takeaways:

"Everyone experiences some level of trauma, and that trauma affects not just our mental state and psychological state, but it manifests within the body as well."– Abraham Sculley

"Trauma is anything that overwhelms the system, and the nervous system can't seem to get regulated."– Kerry Whiteley

"When we have an adverse childhood experience, it's been linked to chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance misuse in adulthood. The higher your ACE score, the higher your chance of suffering from psychological or medical problems in adulthood."– Kerry Whiteley

"If you had somebody supportive and secure to process and hold you through that, that could mitigate the effect of trauma. We can truly experience almost anything if we have someone to navigate it with us."– Kerry Whiteley

"Being a teacher in a school doesn't ensure that a student will watch it, walk into your classroom, and feel safe. It was something about your presence."– Kerry Whiteley

"I want to be mindful of what I say so that it's not triggering for anyone."– Abraham Sculley

"Life doesn't have to be the way that it's always been for you."– Abraham Sculley

"If we can step back and give people space to have their own experience and be potentially that supportive soft place to process things, I feel like that would make a difference."– Kerry Whiteley

"Mental health is developing an intimate relationship with yourself, getting to know who you are from the bottom up."– Kerry Whiteley

Connect with Kerry via the following:

· Website: https://maitricounselingcenter.com/

· Email: [email protected]

. Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kwhiteley78/

. LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-whiteley-36b40315a/

. CTA: Mental Health Resource List: https://speaks2inspire.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/PDF-Mental-health-resources-Created-by-Speaks-2-Inspire.pdf

Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health is Hosted by Abraham Sculley.

· Contact Speaks 2 Inspire to learn about S2I programs:https://speaks2inspire.com/services/.

· Mental health resources for students:https://speaks2inspire.com/resources/.

· Connect with Abraham on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/abrahamsculley/.

· Order a copy of Unlearn the Lies athttps://amzn.to/32B2jRh.

· Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group:https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

• 14 Ways to Support Your Students' Mental Health [free guide] -https://bit.ly/mentalhealthguide4

This episode is powered by Speaks 2 Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses across the nation. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Crisis Text Line by texting "Home" to 741741 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255.

How can we create a world where kindness and empathy for mental health challenges are the norm? How often do we overlook the intrinsic connection between our mental and physical health?

Mental health is physical health. Mental health is not an isolated facet of our existence but an integral component of our physical well-being. Unfortunately, this crucial connection is often overlooked since mental health issues plague our society. The stigma around mental health remains a challenging barrier, preventing many from seeking the help they desperately need.

In light of these challenges, the solution lies in promoting compassion and empathy to everyone, regardless of who they are and what they can give back. We must seek and strive to create a culture where people feel safe sharing their struggles without fearing shame and judgment. Remember that mental health is just as vital as physical health, and it is about time that it receives the attention and care it deserves.

In this episode, we want to help listeners gain valuable insights about mental health advocacy, the importance of self-awareness, prioritizing self-care, suicide prevention, and the positive impact of caring gestures. Tune in as we discover the value of collective efforts in promoting mental well-being and how incorporating fun and engaging activities promotes a culture of open conversation around mental health. Be enlightened by Melanie's passion for mental health awareness and her remarkable work in breaking down barriers and reducing stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Today, we're joined by Melanie Gilson, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, passionate mental health advocate, and dedicated college educator who has made significant contributions to mental health awareness and suicide prevention. With a background in counseling and a solid commitment to improving the well-being of students, Melanie has become a prominent figure in the mental health community.

Melanie has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing how mental health is approached on college campuses. Her innovative Mental Health Awareness Festivals have brought together community agencies and students to create a supportive environment for tackling mental health challenges. She is dedicated to reducing stigma and promoting self-care to impact the lives of students and faculty alike profoundly. Through her deep commitment to education, Melanie's approach integrates self-care, resilience, and cultural sensitivity into mental health initiatives, emphasizing kindness, empathy, and self-awareness to empower others to impact the mental health field positively.

"On the way down to your gut, check in with your heart because everything is connected."- Melanie Gnaiza-Gilson

Show Highlights:

(00:00:00) Episode disclaimer, highlight, and introduction

(00:02:06) Welcoming today's guest, Melanie Gnaizda-Gilson.

(00:03:03) Who is Melanie Gnaizda-Gilson?

(00:05:54) The impact of educators passionate about mental health

(00:07:47) How did Melanie develop her passion for mental health awareness?

(00:11:14) It's okay not to be okay.

(00:12:47) Your pain impacts your loved ones.

(00:15:10) What does being a mental health advocate for your students mean?

(00:17:07) Treat everyone with kindness and empathy

(00:19:04) This episode is powered by Speaks to Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses nationwide.

(00:20:09) The Mental Health Awareness Festival

(00:24:13) The professional certification was resilience

(00:26:39) Goals and success of the QPR Suicide Prevention Training

(00:29:30) The GLS Campus Suicide Prevention Grant

(00:31:26) Improving Access to Mental Health Services

(00:34:26) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

(00:36:04) How can we eradicate mental health stigma?

(00:39:14) What is mental health to Melanie Gnaizda-Gilson?

(00:41:33) Where to connect with Melanie?

(00:43:03) If you need that support for your mental health, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 9-8-8 now. For local and national resources, go tohttp://www.speaks2inspire.com/resources. Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group:https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

Key Takeaways:

"Unfortunately, not everyone in education comes with great passion and desire for creating a significant impact on campuses." - Abraham Sculley

"To give to others and to teach them that their worth is the most important thing has been something that I've grown from." - Melanie Gnaiza-Gilson

"There are some people that need help, and there are people that help others, and that's you."- Melanie Gnaiza-Gilson

"A huge component of maintaining your mental health does have to do with helping other people." - Melanie Gnaiza-Gilson

"Being a mental health advocate means that I understand that it's okay not to be okay."- Melanie Gnaiza-Gilson

"We can't let ourselves fall down that rabbit hole of struggling and pain."- Melanie Gnaiza-Gilson

"Your pain gets transferred to the loved ones when you take that step of attempting to hurt yourself or completing suicide."- Melanie Gnaiza-Gilson

"Everyone needs to have compassion and empathy for others regardless of who they are because you don't know what they're going through inside."- Melanie Gnaiza-Gilson

Connect with Melanie via the following:

· Website: https://www.broward.edu/

. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-gilson-l-m-h-c-47575a76/

The awareness and prevention campaigns and events are made possible, in part by grant number1H79SM084082-01 funded by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The views and opinions expressed arethose of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of SAMHSA or HHS.

Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health is Hosted by Abraham Sculley.

· Contact Speaks 2 Inspire to learn about S2I programs:https://speaks2inspire.com/services/.

· Mental health resources for students:https://speaks2inspire.com/resources/.

· Connect with Abraham on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/abrahamsculley/.

· Order a copy of Unlearn the Lies athttps://amzn.to/32B2jRh.

· Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group:https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

• 14 Ways to Support Your Students' Mental Health [free guide] -https://bit.ly/mentalhealthguide4

This episode is powered by Speaks 2 Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses across the nation. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Crisis Text Line by texting "Home" to 741741 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255.

Mental health is discovering and embracing your authentic self while equipping yourself with the tools to stand in your truth confidently. It's an ongoing process of self-discovery, self-care, and maintaining a balance that allows you to thrive. Just as you can't pour from an empty cup, taking care of your mental health ensures you can support not only yourself but also those around you. It's about acknowledging the importance of inner well-being and actively nurturing it.

In this episode, Victoria passionately discusses the unique challenges Black students face regarding mental health and explores the intertwining factors of stigma, lack of resources, and cultural nuances that impact mental health conversations within the Black community. Join us as we gain a deep understanding of how the Unapologetically Free initiative is making a difference through partnerships, awareness campaigns, and research in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Be encouraged into this enlightening episode that unpacks the significant impact of prioritizing our mental health in nurturing holistic growth within the Black community and empowering future generations.

Today, we're joined by Victoria works alongside the Director of Strategy to help develop strategies that improve the resilience and sustainability of Black colleges and universities, as well as the cultivation of ICB's mission and vision. Specifically, Victoria oversees emerging initiatives, including those related to mental health and the future of work.

The daughter of two educators, Victoria, has experience as an attorney. She uses her experience with researching, innovative thinking, attention to detail that she honed as a lawyer and love for education to propel her drive to strategize creative ways to lead HBCUs to continue to lift as we climb. Victoria holds a bachelor's degree from Howard University. She earned her Juris Doctorate from The University of Georgia School of Law.

"You can't fill up anybody else's cup if you're on empty." – Victoria Smith

Show Highlights:

(00:00:00) Episode disclaimer, highlight, and introduction

(00:02:33) Welcoming today's guest, Victoria Smith.

(00:03:19) Who is Victoria Smith?

(00:05:35) State of Black Mental Health at HBCUs

(00:08:17) Factors Supporting Mental Health at HBCUs

(00:09:21) The existing sense of community

(00:10:23) How does the TRIO program help Abraham?

(00:11:47) Abraham's personal experience with depression and stigma

(00:13:22) Depression is a real thing.

(00:14:24) Barriers to Seeking Help

(00:15:30) Lack of knowledge, access, and trust in the medical field

(00:19:24) What is an endowment?

(00:20:29) The significant disparity in endowments between HBCUs and PWIs.

(00:23:16) This episode is powered by Speaks to Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses nationwide.

(00:23:59) What does the Unapologetically Free do?

(00:25:34) Providing an inclusive environment for students to learn and thrive.

(00:26:17) What kind of assistance does unapologetically free provide to black colleges?

(00:27:00) Upcoming event: The Unite 2023

(00:29:50) The legacy and connections of UNCF within the HBCU community.

(00:32:21) How can we eradicate the mental health stigma?

(00:34:37) Increasing black people's access and utilization of mental health support.

(00:36:17) Eradication is the ultimate goal.

(00:36:30) What is mental health to Victoria Smith?

(00:37:04) Mental health is a journey of self-discovery and self-care.

(00:38:04) Unapologetically Free resources available on the website: https://www.unapologetically-free.org/

(00:40:06) Where to connect with Victoria?

(00:41:01) The 14 Ways to support your students' mental health guide

(00:41:47) If you need that support for your mental health, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 9-8-8 now. For local and national resources, go to http://www.speaks2inspire.com/resources. Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group: https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

(00:43:13) Outro

Key Takeaways:

"I believe in the importance of HBCUs in the Black community. I believe in their legacy." – Victoria Smith

"Thinking of everybody else in your family who you're there for and the legacy can sometimes be overwhelming as well, and so, you tend not to put yourself first." – Victoria Smith

"Being able to see yourself experience different cultures within your cultures, certain things you don't have to worry about because there's already a level of understanding that exists and the sense of community is there." – Victoria Smith

"I remember going from being this enthusiastic student to being super down and isolating myself. And I didn't know I was depressed because I didn't have a name for it." – Abraham Sculley

"There's the stigma of religion being the way that you do fix anything wrong." – Victoria Smith

"When you have a lack of resources, you almost have to figure out how can I get creative with what I do have?" – Abraham Sculley

"The dedication and the legacy precede us, so that makes outreach a little bit more seamless than if we didn't have that." – Victoria Smith

"With the lack of trust in the medical field, seeing somebody like you in the room that you were talking to brings a sense of ease." – Victoria Smith

"Being able to speak on the story on platforms like this and bringing people into knowing the impact that their partnership will have on the greater community as a whole." – Victoria Smith

"I'm trying to remain optimistic that we at least move the needle in a positive direction. Eradication is the ultimate goal, and that would be a dream." – Victoria Smith

"Mental health is promoting the journey of finding your true self and learning the tools to stand firmly in learning who you truly are." – Victoria Smith

"When we are in that abundance, we have an opportunity to recognize those who need that support and support our students." – Abraham Sculley

"You don't even have to be in crisis to reach out." – Abraham Sculley

"It's best to have the resource and not need it than to need it and not have it." – Abraham Sculley

Connect with Victoria via the following:

· Website: https://www.unapologetically-free.org/

· Email: [email protected]

. Twitter: https://twitter.com/UNCFICB

. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncficb/

. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncficb/

. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-a-smith-esq/; https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/uncf-institute-for-capacity-building/

Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health is Hosted by Abraham Sculley.

· Contact Speaks 2 Inspire to learn about S2I programs: https://speaks2inspire.com/services/.

· Mental health resources for students: https://speaks2inspire.com/resources/.

· Connect with Abraham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abrahamsculley/.

· Order a copy of Unlearn the Lies at https://amzn.to/32B2jRh.

· Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group: https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

. 14 Ways to Support Your Students' Mental Health [free guide] - https://bit.ly/mentalhealthguide4

This episode is powered by Speaks 2 Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses across the nation.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Crisis Text Line by texting "Home" to 741741 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255.

Diversity is a factual reality, equity is a conscious choice, inclusion requires proactive action, and belonging is the ultimate result. The episode highlights the significance of choosing equity to create a just and inclusive environment.

In this episode, we want to help individuals better understand diversity, equity, and inclusion. As we live in a highly diverse society, encompassing various backgrounds and identities. Equity, on the other hand, is a choice, and it involves treating individuals fairly and providing them with what they need to succeed, rather than treating everyone the same. Join us as we discover how we can create a sense of community and self-assuredness, where individuals feel wanted and needed for their unique talents and contributions.

Today, we're joined by Blane Allen Harding, the former Director of Diversity Engagement for the Office of Inclusion and Diversity at Virginia Tech University and currently serves as a national consultant. He also served as the Director of Advising, Recruitment, and Retention for the College of Science at the University of Nevada, Reno from 2017-2020 as well as the Director of The Cultural Center at the University of Nevada Reno from 2015-2017. He retired from Colorado State University, after 24 years of service, in 2012 where he served as the Director of Advising, Recruitment, and Retention for the College of Liberal Arts as well as a professor in the Ethnic Studies Department. 

Blane served as a retention faculty member with the Council for Opportunity in Education which oversees the national TRIO programs as well as a faculty member, for 16 years, and past Chair of the Summer Institute Advisory Board for the National Academic Advising Association and Chair of their Multicultural Concerns Commission. In 2018 he was recognized as the Leading Light Award Winner presented to a NACADA member in recognition of significant contributions to diversity within NACADA.

"Belonging is an outcome. There's got to be a feeling of community, self-assuredness, and the feeling that people not only want you there, but they need you there." - Blane Harding

Show Highlights:

[00:04:54] Exploring Interests in Auburn, New York: Blane's Involvement with Community College and Cougar Museum.

[00:07:08] Unplanned Career Shift: Blane's Story of Becoming a Teacher at Colorado State University.

[00:11:08] The Importance of Genuine Student Relationships.

[00:13:30] Embracing Flexibility: Blane's Message to Young People on Seizing Opportunities.

[00:16:17] Defining Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

[00:19:23] Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

[00:22:52] Measuring Outcomes: Blane Highlights the Significance of Belonging.

[00:24:06] Learn how you can bring a Speaks 2 Inspire speaker to your campus by visiting www.speaks2inspire.com/speakers.

[00:25:15] Importance of having sufficient staffing and funding for effective DEI efforts.

[00:25:45] Recognizing the value of knowledge and experience in the field.

[00:26:22] The significance of convincing those on the fence about the importance of DEI.

[00:27:27] The need for tangible results and benefits for the institution.

[00:28:36] Advocating for collaboration and partnership in developing effective DEI programs.

[00:29:27] Highlighting the need to include student voices in DEI initiatives.

[00:30:03] Discussing the need for customized approaches for different audiences.

[00:32:05] Emphasizing the value of authentic relationships with students.

[00:34:01]  The need to break down the stigma around mental health in certain communities.

[00:38:33] Open conversations without judgment.

[00:42:59] Recognizing the value of mental health support for everyone, regardless of background.

[00:45:26] The importance of cultural competence in mental health services.

Key Takeaways:

"You learn from everybody. If you're not learning from them, then your interactions with them are not being very productive." - Blane Harding

"Just use the skills you have. We all have different skills, and it's all different too. My way of presenting isn't other people's ways of presenting." - Blane Harding

"Diversity is a fact. Equity is a choice. Inclusion is an action. Belonging is an outcome." - Abraham Sculley

"Equity is fairness, and equality is sameness." - Blane Harding

"If you're of good character, you believe in fairness, and if you believe in fairness, then you believe in equity." - Blane Harding

"If it's personal and emotional, it's a choice. If you are of good character, you believe in fairness, and if you believe in fairness, then you believe in equity." - Abraham Sculley

"You've got to take your time, and it's going to be, it's going to happen, but you gotta take your time. You always gotta check in." - Abraham Sculley

"You would never put one person in charge of anything else on a college campus that's that large, except diversity and equity." - Blane Harding

"So I think it's the staffing. I think it's the financing to be quite honest. I also think it's the education." - Blane Harding

"Do we really want you here? Do we really need you here? Do we really need your talent and your skills and your experience and everything that you can contribute? And the obvious answer is yes. Why leave people out?" - Abraham Sculley

"I think the work I do is really important. I think I contribute as much as I can or as little as I can at any time." - Blane Harding

"There are so many people out there that have no clue what they're doing. If you go to that type of a presentation, you will never ever go back." - Blane Harding

"Anybody can put together a presentation, but can you answer questions afterwards?" - Blane Harding

"Getting people on board that are on that fence, that really don't know which way they're going to go. I'm either going to hate it, or I'm going to love it." - Blane Harding

Connect with Blane via the following:

• Email: [email protected] 

• LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/blane-harding

Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health is Hosted by Abraham Sculley.

• Contact Speaks 2 Inspire to learn about S2I programs: https://speaks2inspire.com/services/.

• Mental health resources for students: https://speaks2inspire.com/resources/.

• Connect with Abraham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abrahamsculley/.

• Order a copy of Unlearn the Lies at https://amzn.to/32B2jRh.

• Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group: https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

• 14 Ways to Support Your Students' Mental Health [free guide] - https://bit.ly/mentalhealthguide4

This episode is powered by Speaks 2 Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses across the nation.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, don't hesitate to get in touch with the Crisis Text Line by texting "Home" to 741741 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255.

Have you ever wondered how we can break down mental health's complexities into a language everyone can understand? Do you want to be part of a movement that embraces mental health and empowers individuals to seek support and understanding?

Mental health is a deeply personal journey that is unique to each individual. It is essential to recognize that mental health is not a one-size-fits-all concept. What works for one person may not work for another. It includes medications, therapies, and the overall healing and recovery process. Embracing the individuality of mental health treatment requires acknowledging the need for personalized approaches and understanding that it often involves a trial-and-error process. Consequently, it can be a challenging and disheartening process, but it is crucial to maintain hope and resilience. Understanding that setbacks are a normal part of the journey allows individuals to persevere, learn from their experiences, and seek strategies that bring about positive change. 

In this episode, we want to help individuals recognize the importance of addressing mental health and the supremacy of peer support with those that struggle with mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. Join us as we discover strategies to break down mental health into a language that anyone can understand to lead us to create a society that values and supports the mental well-being of its people, especially our young generation. Prepare to be enlightened as we uncover strategies that broaden our understanding of mental health, equipping us to support ourselves and others better.

Today, we're joined by Jasmin Kotek, the Miss South Central, Partner of CultureChange, and Brand Ambassador of You Matter MN. Jasmin is a Minnesota State University Mankato graduate and is currently a mathematics teacher at Faribault middle school. She is also an 8-year coach, the head coach of the Northfield Hiliners Dance Team, Tri-City United Cheer Team, and the Cannon Falls Fall Dance Team. Jasmin is also the author of a children's book, "Believe, Bella," which strives to break mental health down to the vernacular that any age can understand. When she isn't in the classroom or coaching, she serves as Miss South Central and will compete for the title of Miss Minnesota this coming June.

With mental health being one of her passions, deriving from her personal experiences and the experiences around her, she helped co-found a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, CultureChange, in which she helped pass a 4-part initiative at universities across the midwest providing access to mental health resources. Today she is a partner of theirs aiming to provide mental health resources through education and policy change. She also works with Change to Chill programming to promote her community service initiative as Miss South Central across Minnesota.

"Mental health is not one size fits all. A medication that works for me won't work for someone else. If a therapy's right for me, that might not work for someone else either. And it was a lot of trial and error, and it got a lot worse before it got better." – Jasmin Kotek

Show Highlights:

(00:00:00) Episode disclaimer, highlight, and introduction

(00:02:22) Welcoming today's guest, Jasmin Kotek.

(00:02:53) Who is Jasmin Kotek?

(00:04:21) A children's book: Believe, Bella

(00:06:09) The Minnesota State University Mankato experience

(00:07:52) How did Jasmin start to become a mental health advocate?

(00:08:58) Mental health is not one size fits all.

(00:11:00) The desire to get over the depression and forget

(00:12:45) The Suicide of Brandon

(00:14:06) How does Brandon's suicide affect little Jasmine?

(00:16:02) Helping children process their emotions.

(00:18:22) Having no safe place to express anxiety is painful.

(00:19:28) Depression is a real thing.

(00:21:17) What does it mean to be a mental health advocate?

(00:22:19) What did mental health support look like for students at Minnesota State University?

(00:26:13) The perfect timing of investing in student mental health

(00:28:12) What did having conversations on campus about mental health look like?

(00:29:41) How can educators support the students that they serve?

(00:31:14) Come to Jasmine's meeting 

(00:33:38) Peer support is powerful.

(00:34:47) The struggle of not being perfect

(00:36:17) Strive for progress, not perfection.

(00:37:30) I am enough and will always be.

(00:38:21) Celebrating our survival and resilience 

(00:39:12) Don't compare yourself to others.

(00:42:00) How can we eradicate mental health stigma?

(00:42:53) What is mental health to Jasmin Kotek?

(00:43:21) This episode is powered by Speaks to Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses nationwide.

(00:45:28) Where to connect with Jasmin?

(00:46:14) The Exhale Project: Positive Word Bracelets

(00:48:36) The 14 Ways to support your students' mental health guide

(00:49:20) If you need that support for your mental health, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 9-8-8 now. For local and national resources, go to http://www.speaks2inspire.com/resources. Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group: https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity. 

Key Takeaways:

"Any transition and change are hard, but I knew I wanted more and different opportunities." – Jasmin Kotek

"Mental health needs to be changed, and we must be the people that do that. Because you can't change what you can't see, and you can't see mental health. It's not like a cut where you see blood, and you can put a band-aid on it; it's something internal." – Jasmin Kotek

"Most of the time, we desire to get over our depression and then forget about it. How can I no longer be depressed? How can I no longer struggle with anxiety? And then as soon as we feel any ounce of relief, we forget about that and act like it never happened." – Jasmin Kotek

"As a man, it's so hard to express emotion outside of being happy or angry. I didn't even know that the emotion or feeling of betrayal was a thing. I didn't know what it looked like to process the feeling of being sad or hurt." – Abraham Sculley

"The more you suppress your emotions, the more it takes you down to this downward spiral, and then it leads to things like mood disorders." – Abraham Sculley

"A mood disorder essentially is the inability to manage your moods effectively." – Abraham Sculley

"Depression is a real thing; it doesn't mean you're weak and don't have the mental and emotional strength. It's a mood disorder that affects the way you think, the way you feel, the way you behave." – Abraham Sculley

"50% of mental health disorders are prevalent before the child turns the age of 14." – Jasmin Kotek

"To be the mental health advocate is to be that person for others that I once needed myself. It's being an educator, giving them the resources, tools, and anything that can help someone else's journey become a little bit easier and letting them know that they're not alone." – Jasmin Kotek

"It's okay to reach out for help, that you don't have to fight it alone." – Jasmin Kotek

"It was hard to develop the ideas we wanted to put out there. But putting it into action, people were much more open to hearing what we had to say than I expected, at least." – Jasmin Kotek

"All of the student body saw that mental health was needed, and we advocated for it. So, I feel when they brought it; it was the perfect timing because they saw that this was needed and just the timeframe of everything in the middle of Covid." – Jasmin Kotek

"There's a lot more going on that I don't see what's there because mental health is invisible. You can't physically see it. And I saw the struggles of my athletes, so knowing that these young teenage girls were struggling, I knew that these students on campus were also struggling." – Jasmin Kotek

"I will never forget the tears running down my face because I didn't realize like what these girls are struggling with that I didn't know." – Jasmin Kotek

"67% of students are more likely to open up with a friend than they are with an adult and a mental health professional." – Abraham Sculley

"One of the easiest things that anyone can do is to listen. So, if many of my athletes are dealing with depression, how amazing would it be if they could support each other? Because peer support is powerful." – Abraha

How can we create a more compassionate and supportive environment that prioritizes mental health and wellness? Are you ready to join the effort to build communities of care that promote mental wellness and create a better future for all students?

Mental health is an essential aspect of overall health, and it is crucial to take care of our mental health as we do with our physical health. Hence, there is a growing recognition of the importance of mental health in society, and efforts are being made to improve access to mental health care. Unfortunately, many individuals struggling with their mental health are met with judgment, stigma, and dismissal from those around them, including friends and family members. Consequently, it intensifies their struggles and creates barriers to seeking help.

Therefore, it's essential to create a culture that prioritizes mental health and wellness, encouraging individuals to seek support and offering resources to help them manage their struggles. It involves providing access to mental health services, promoting awareness and education, and creating safe spaces where individuals can express themselves without fear of judgment. Ultimately, it's critical to listen to individuals' experiences and challenges without judgment and offer support and resources to help them through their struggles. Doing so can create a more compassionate and inclusive society that prioritizes mental health and wellness. However, it requires a collective effort from everyone and a commitment to creating a more humane and inclusive environment. With these efforts, we can create a brighter future for all students.

In this episode, we want to help people, especially education leaders, affect positive change and cultivate a healthier environment for children and themselves. It is to give them some strategies and steps to support our children holistically. Join us as we learn how to shift our language and mindset in ways that allow us to be competent and carry the vision for the next generation with care, compassion, and bravery.

Today, we're joined by Dr. Anglin-Taylor; she's been in the K-12 educational arena for over 20 years serving as an administrator and teacher leader intent on improving student achievement. She also advocates for children, equity in education, and promoting healthy school cultures in both public and private educational sectors. Her work has consisted of a multifaceted approach to leadership in urban and rural school systems.

Her talents include but are not limited to, expertise in creating programs and professional learning designs for administrators and teachers. She has done extensive work recruiting, developing, and retaining highly qualified teachers and leaders of color to address the needs of urban schools.

In 2021, Dr. Anglin-Taylor released her first book. Demystifying the Angry Black Woman Stereotype through Self-Actualization: A Discussion about Strong Black Women is a self-help, inspirational book comprised of anecdotes and stories from and about black women in leadership and their journeys. The book provides readers insight into what women of color experience as they navigate the professional arena and how their historical underpinnings aid them in overcoming age-old obstacles. Dr. Anglin-Taylor also owns an educational consulting business, Taylor Instructional Leadership Coaching and Consulting Services, LLC.

"I love the work that we can do for children, and I like to see the change in children's growth. There are lots of opportunities in education, and at the end of the day, it's worth navigating even though many things in education aren't so pleasant." – Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor

Show Highlights:

(00:00:00) Episode disclaimer, highlight, and introduction

(00:02:35) Welcoming today's guest, Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor.

(00:03:59) A Black Woman in Education: Who is Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor?

(00:07:44) What is the current state of Faculty and Staff mental health and well-being?

(00:10:14) What came positive out of Covid?

(00:11:02) Adults also need access to mental health and self-care.

(00:12:15) A mental health crisis

(00:14:20) What are some ways that administrators can help in supporting their educators?

(00:15:13) The necessity for open conversations

(00:15:52) Partnership and Collaboration: You can't run a school alone.

(00:19:54) Advertisement: This podcast is powered by Speaks2inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks2Inspire promotes mental wellness by creating safe spaces for young people to learn and connect through the art of storytelling. Learn how to bring a speaks-to-inspire speaker to your campus by visiting https://speaks2inspire.com/speaker/. 

(00:20:38) Think about yourself without being selfish.

(00:22:00) Accountability mindset: What level of accountability are we willing to own and accept?

(00:24:42) Change starts when we shift our language.

(00:27:08) How do we all work together to help our students succeed academically and holistically?

(00:28:07) Have a reserved judgment. 

(00:31:03) Education is a partnership.

(00:32:33) Be a steward of resources without judgment.

(00:34:34) The Book: Demystifying the Angry Black Woman Stereotype through Self-Actualization: A Discussion about Strong Black Women

(00:36:10) The most painful experience of an educator.

(00:39:20) Keep our children safe and provide them with a great education.

(00:40:29) Accessing mental health doesn't make us weak.

(00:42:43) Shift how you see strength and vulnerability.

(00:43:28) Males and females exhibit depression in different ways.

(00:46:22) The Morning Duty

(00:49:18) What is mental health for Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor?

(00:50:11) Our mental health drives our perception.

(00:51:55) Connect with Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor.

(00:52:21) 14 Ways to Support Your Students' Mental Health [free guide] - https://bit.ly/mentalhealthguide4

(00:53:18) If you need that support for your mental health, reach out to the National Suicide 

Prevention Lifeline by calling 9-8-8 now. For local and national resources, go to 

http://www.speaks2inspire.com/resources. Join the Unlearn The Lies About Mental Health 

Facebook group: https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

Key Takeaways:

"The reason we continue to persevere through the challenges, adversities, and everything else that comes with it is that we realize it's worth it." – Abraham Sculley

"Adults in education have gotten more comfortable and concerned and are advocating more for their resources in mental health, as in teachers and administrators. We're talking a lot now about self-care." – Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor

"It's important for us to hold ourselves accountable as adults, as we recognize and acknowledge that we, adults too, need to engage in self-care. And that we need to access mental health and make sure that we're okay." – Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor

"The energy that we're giving into advocating for ourselves and our resources around mental health is the same energy we need to continue to give in advocating for our children." – Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor

"If we recognize a lot of these problems have been existing, then it helps us to understand the level of harm and the level of the challenges that COVID has added to what was already existing." – Abraham Sculley

"Be open to listening to different ways to reach the same intended outcome." – Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor

"You can't run a school. You can't fix it all by yourself, so you have to partner, collaborate, and be open to other ideas from people." – Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor

"Sometimes making shifts in when you communicate and how you communicate can relieve a whole lot of stress." – Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor

"I think you have to think about yourself without being selfish. If it's not good enough for you, your family members, people that you love, and people that are very close to you, it should not be acceptable for the children and the families and the communities in which you serve." – Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor

"I learned that if you just listen and trust the people that you hire, trust that they are competent." – Dr. Angela Anglin-Taylor

"When you take ownership of everything, you now have the power and the ability to change things. And a lot of people are not willing to take that ownership because it hurts." – Abraham Sculley

"Every parent that does not show up to the student conference, it doesn't mean that they don't care or that they're not interested in their child's well-being or their academic progress."

How can we be more effective at enhancing and becoming more conscious of our mental health? How can we come together to ensure everyone has the best mental health possible, regardless of how it manifests itself?

According to the World Health Organization, Half of all mental health conditions start by the age of 14. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse are common among young people. Advocating for young people's mental health is crucial since it can significantly impact their well-being, academic and social functioning, and long-term outcomes.

Mental health is an essential aspect of overall health and well-being, and individuals need access to resources and support to help them manage their mental health. However, mental health education is not always a formal part of traditional education. Thus, educational institutions and organizations must recognize the importance of mental health education and take steps to integrate it into their curriculums.

In this episode, we want to help individuals recognize the significance of reinforcing discussions about a particular issue most people are uncomfortable with mental health. And also to spread awareness on how to be compassionate, empathetic, and kind to people experiencing mental health challenges. Join us as we learn about the importance of mental health education in improving the lives of teenage students' lives, assisting teachers in incorporating discussions about mental health into their classes, and providing resources and support for students struggling with mental health issues.

Today, we're joined by Seth Nilsen, the student organization "Mental Health Mankato" founder in college who founded CultureChange after Mental Health Mankato was awarded "Student Organization of the Year" in 2020 by Minnesota State University, Mankato.

CultureChange began by advising university student leaders on how to successfully advocate for legislative advancements and sending volunteer teachers to teach their mental health curriculum (K–12). The Mankato Clinic Foundation sponsored their curriculum.

Seth has developed the curriculum to align with the National Health Education Standards and has designed the lessons to be activity-based. Through CultureChange, he has also been able to advise university mental health policy. Thus, CultureChange has formally passed and implemented a bill at Minnesota State University-Mankato and is working with multiple other schools to adopt similar bills.

"The best thing about teaching mental health is that it teaches kids compassion and empathy. Nothing is more important than learning the importance of being kind at a young age. And there's no better way to learn how to be kind than to practice supporting people and understanding them who may be facing challenges that you are not facing." Seth Nilsen

Show Highlights:

(00:00:00) Episode disclaimer, highlight, and introduction

(00:02:05) Half of all mental health illnesses appear before age 14.

(00:03:29) Welcoming today's guest, Seth Nilsen

(00:04:30) A mental health advocate: Who is Seth Nilsen?

(00:06:08) What makes Seth passionate about being a mental health advocate?

(00:08:04) Being motivated by the inspiring journeys of people overcoming their mental health battles

(00:09:15) Mental health hasn't been a part of traditional education.

(00:10:43) How can we help and encourage students dealing with mental health challenges?

(00:13:21) A careful teaching method: destigmatizing mental health through mindful conversations.

(00:15:14) Self-awareness: Empowering students with self-awareness about mental health

(00:16:02) Why is teaching mental health education in the K–12 curriculum crucial?

(00:17:15) The Individual Stress Response Tracking Chart

(00:18:34) You don't have to be an expert to be able to help.

(00:21:15) Learning the importance of kindness through mental health education

(00:23:14) This episode is powered by Speaks to Inspire, the mental health solution for young adults suffering in silence. Speaks 2 Inspire works with colleges and universities to create and implement safe, comprehensive programs for campuses nationwide.

(00:24:00) The School Mental Health Framework: What does it entail?

(00:27:15) What does mental health mean to Seth Nilsen?

(00:28:00) Find ways to live your happiest life.

(00:29:59) CultureChange: School Mental Health Framework (Curriculum, Screening Tool Recommendations, Policy Recommendations)

(00:32:16) Where to find Seth to connect and learn from him?

(00:34:02) We can end the mental health crisis through proper education.

(00:35:12) What is dual programming?

(00:37:37) If you need that support for your mental health, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 9-8-8 now. For local and national resources, go to http://www.speaks2inspire.com/resources. Join the Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health Facebook group: https://bit.ly/UTLcommunity.

(00:38:49) There is no shame in having a mental health condition.

Key Takeaways:

"One thing I find with those who become advocates in mental health is that it hits close to home, whether it's a personal experience that we've had or a loved one that was affected by mental illness or any mental health condition." – Abraham Sculley

"I knew that I wasn't going to be able to be successful and just live the life that I wanted to live if I didn't address my social anxiety." – Seth Nilsen

"I don't remember ever taking a class or learning anything about mental health in school, nothing about anxiety, depression, or managing stress. It wasn't a part of the education that we received." – Abraham Sculley

"Let your students know you're a person they can go to. It's something that can be really meaningful to someone, whether it's a kindergarten kid or, in my case, a college student." – Seth Nilsen

"Being conscientious about the methods of teaching is the most important thing because it's all about practicing an open conversation about mental health and destigmatizing mental health through that." – Seth Nilsen

"Being able to identify your emotions is the first step in learning how to handle your emotions." – Seth Nilsen

"A stress response tracking chart gives the students a way to practice the concepts that the teachers are teaching, and it works in the best teaching practices as opposed to just a worksheet and lecture." – Seth Nilsen

"There is often a hesitation to talk about mental health or bring it up in conversation because many people believe that you have to be an expert to help." – Abraham Sculley

"We may not all have a mental health disorder, but we all have mental health, which is simply a state of well-being. It's how we think, how we feel, how we behave, how we interact in the world, how we overcome stressors and challenges, and how we interact with others." – Abraham Sculley

"The first step in solving our mental health crisis is creating the best possible social-emotional learning environment. It means incorporating comprehensive mental health education and educator's professional development courses." – Seth Nilsen

"It's important to be kind because being kind allows oneself to be happy. It also creates a community that is happy to be around each other." – Seth Nilsen

"We can end the mental health crisis through education and getting to a solution-oriented impact." – Abraham Sculley

"There is no shame in having mental health conditions or talking about mental health." – Abraham Sculley

Connect with Seth via the following:

• Website: https://culturechangecc.org/ 

• Email: [email protected] 

• Facebook: CultureChange | Facebook

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-nilsen-689500183 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/culturechangecc/?hl=en

Unlearn the Lies About Mental Health is Hosted by Abraham Sculley.

• Contact Speaks 2 Inspire to learn about S2I programs: