Kéthia's Kitchen Table Talk (...on Mental Health)

Our March podcast episode is my March 4th lecture and discussion with students at D.C.'s  American University creating healthy boundaries for stress management.

This episode (recorded through ZOOM) is more interactive, as the students engage with me during the second half with their thoughts, questions, and concerns. I'm fortunate to have been entrusted with creating a safe space to learn and share. 

In Mutual Aid systems, neighbors work cooperatively to meet the needs of everyone within the community.  There is help  with resources, e.g., food, money, skills, transportation, running errands, etc.— which are then redistributed to those in the community who are in need.

Altruism simply means selflessness: the concern for the wellbeing of others. There are four main types of altruism, including reciprocal altruism (or mutualism). 

For me, Mutual Aid has lessened the harmful mental health consequences of being shut in and shut out from others, such as loneliness, depression, and anxiety. I've regained my purpose, and feel a stronger connection to my immediate community and the DC community overall.

In this episode of "Kéthia's Kitchen Table Talk (...on Mental Health)",  Mr. Tariiq Omari Walton, Licenced Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT),  joined me for a discussion on how to create loving, healthy romantic relationships. 

Tariiq shares his wealth of knowledge of generational trauma, emotional regulation, setting healthy boundaries, and individuation.  He also leads us in an effective, calming 1-minute mindfulness exercise.

Be well, friends. 😊

In this episode, Marsha Banks-Harold and I gather at the kitchen table to discuss the unmet needs and unhealed trauma that linger from complex PTSD. We also explore microaggressions and psychological safety in the workplace, particularly during the current pandemic. 

Marsha is an electrical engineer; Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT); Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga Facilitator (TCTSY-F); and Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT 500)!

"...owner of PIES Fitness Yoga Studio, [Marsha] is an intuitive healer called to empower clients to fortify one’s strength of awesomeness; to learn to rely on one’s authentic self; and to cultivate everlasting physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual (PIES) peace...She thrives in creating a supportive, inclusive, diverse, adaptive and accessible yoga and yoga therapy experience for all.

"Marsha, a wife of 27 years, is a mother to two sons and a legal guardian to two additional sons thriving after early childhood complex trauma. She also works as an electrical engineer and serves as an officer in her church. Marsha’s passion in life is serving those impacted by trauma, those living with special needs and conditions, special population clients and those seeking lifestyle management guidance."

On Sunday, September 6th I hosted Juneous Pettijohn, MPH, RYT-500, EYT-200, for a discussion on the benefits of meditation, self-compassion, and journaling. Here, we center Black men and explore the unique mental health challenges that this demographic faces. But we also provide ways in which all men (and people in general) can adopt healthy coping mechanisms. 

Throughout history, being a black person in America has meant breaking boundaries, being nimble, and pivoting in the face of adversity. But where does that leave your mental health?

Stay strong, friends. Be well and be encouraged. xoxo

On Sunday, August 2nd I hosted registered nurse (RN ) and public health expert DW Scott for a discussion on mental health (specifically depression and anxiety); the benefits of psychotherapy; and adopting healthy coping mechanisms. 

Throughout history, being a black person in America has meant breaking boundaries, being nimble, and pivoting in the face of adversity. But where does that leave your mental health?

Stay strong, friends. Be well and be encouraged. xoxo