Ask A Therapist

In part two of our Indian Matchmaking mini-series, Nikita & Zameena share the different problematic narratives of classism, sexism, colourism, and toxic shame that we saw in the show, and continue to see in the wider South Asian cultural context.

We're sure you have heard all the rave about Netflix's new show, Indian Matchmaking. In today's episode, Nikita & Zameena share their favourite characters, their reactions, what they enjoyed about the show, the parallels between the show and the larger Indian culture! Stay tuned for Part II next week, where we talk about the problematic narratives present in the show.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!! We have immensely enjoyed recording this podcast the few months, and are so humbled by your listenership. Thank you for supporting our passion project! We will be back next week with another episode!

Since we had so much to say, we're back with another episode! Tune in if you'd like to know how therapists manage their emotions, whether they have their own therapists, and how they keep functioning even after bearing witness to emotionally exhausting stories.

Have you ever felt curious about what your therapist gets up to before or after your session? Curious about their personal lives, and daily routines? In today's episode, Zameena & Nikita spill the tea on all that and more! Listen in to learn more about these two therapists, and how they navigate life outside the sessions.

Are you feeling stressed? Tired? Tightly wound? In today's episode, Nikita guides you though a quick but effective guided breathing exercise that can de-escalate any overwhelming feelings. Give it a try!

LIFE AFTER LOCKDOWN 

Do you feel like you're experiencing a lot of anxiety, guilt or fear at going out? Not sure how to strengthen your mental health during "re-entry" into the world? Don't worry, because Nikita & Zameena have been feeling similarly. Listen to this episode to hear about their personal experiences, and much more: 

3 things to watch out for in during life after lockdown 

Most common emotional reactions and how you can ease them

This week Zameena guides us through a relaxing guided breathing exercise, to help reduce stress and anxiety. Let us know if you enjoy, so we can create similar meditations for you!

If you liked the episode, please don't forget to rate and subscribe!

In today's episode, Zameena and Nikita demystify suicide from a South Asian lens, and bust the following 5 myths about suicide: 

1. You shouldn't talk about suicide 

2. It happens suddenly or out of the blue 

3. Suicidal ideation doesn't effect people who are high functioning or educated 

4. Someone who is feeling better is outside the risk of suicide

5. Someone who attempts suicide is selfish 

Tune in to hear us bust these myths, and discuss how you can support a loved one through these difficult, dark thoughts!

Resources: 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4978432/#!po=0.746269

https://www.distresscentre.com/2017/01/5-steps-to-help-someone-who-is-having-suicidal-thoughts/

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bbcthree/article/d5c05bec-dc47-4ec3-aba6-057db48cf76f

ASSIST training - Greater Toronto Area:

https://toronto.cmha.ca/asist-applied-suicide-intervention-skills-training/

Today's episode is a continuation of the last one. In this episode, Nikita & Zameena discuss their experiences of racism, shadeism, anti-darkness phobia in the South Asian communities, and some practical tips on how you can call out racism in your homes and social groups. 

A helpful reading on racial gaslighting: https://www.buzzfeed.com/lizmrichardson/racial-gaslighting-instagram-explainer 

If you liked the episode, please don't forget to rate and subscribe!