As a society, it appears we are simply not coping with today’s work and life demands, and the pandemic has further amplified what seems to be an epidemic of stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns in our population. This week on Voice and Beyond, we welcome back to the show Heidi Moss Erickson, an acclaimed performer, voice educator, and scientist who first appeared on the show two years ago in episode no. 35. Since then, both Heidi and I have struggled with the grief of losing loved ones, and in this interview, we speak frankly about the impact of our loss, our grieving journeys as survivors of suicide, and our own personal struggles with anxiety and depression.

 This is a two-part conversation about healing, the resilience of the human spirit, and shining a beacon of light on these difficult topics, from the perspective of two people who are not healthcare experts, medical practitioners, or psychologists, but rather we speak from a place of experience, neuroscience, and an understanding of biology. Heidi will explain the difference between the brain and the mind, how the two are interrelated, and share science-based information on how we can improve our brain health to optimize our mind health.

It is our intention to give hope to others who are struggling with their own grief or mental health issues; however, I would like to stress that some of the content may be triggering; therefore, if you or someone you know is struggling, we have included links to where you can seek help in the show notes. This episode serves as a timely reminder, as we head into the festive season, to check in and connect with loved ones. Remember, this is part one of a two-part interview with Heidi Moss Erickson, and part two will be released after the holiday season.

In This Episode
1:15 - Introduction
5:59 - Grief and mental health after a suicide loss
15:57 - Mind vs brain
21:08 - Mental health and circadian rhythms
28:39 - Mindset, emotions, and self-regulation
34:14 - Brain health, mindset, and mental health
38:38 - Trauma and lifestyle interventions

Find Heidi Online

• Website
• Facebook

Support

• Australia - Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636
• Australia- Lifeline: 13 11 14 - Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention.
• USA - Suicide and Crisis Lifeline call 988
• UK - Crisis Text Line -Text 'SHOUT' to 85258

For more, go to drmarisaleenaismith.com/146.

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