Mental Illness and Me

35 year old Melody learned she had bipolar disorder with hypomania when she was in her twenties. She also deals with trichotillomania and anxiety, dating back to her childhood. In Monday’s episode, she eloquently shares her thoughts about mental illness from the lens of her own experiences as a Chicana and a mental health advocate.

Samuel remembers suffering from anxiety as early as elementary school age. His anxiety progressed to full-blown panic attacks by the time he reached high school. He was diagnosed with anxiety, and later with ADHD as a young adult. As a naturally extroverted person, Samuel met particular challenges with his anxiety during the Covid pandemic. On Monday’s episode, he talks about techniques that help him manage both his anxiety and ADHD, and he also addresses the importance of men talking more openly about mental health.

Mer was in college when she first entered a treatment center for Bulimia Nervosa, after battling depression and anxiety previously. This physical and mental illness is characterized by binge eating followed by one of a few different purging rituals (not just throwing up, as many people think). Mer explains what engaging in binge eating behaviors really looks looks like and points out the dangers of diet culture in this fantastic episode of Mental Illness and Me. Her passion is contagious.

Seasonal Depressive Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that is initiated by the change in seasons. Michael is a father, teacher, author, and composer and he struggles with SAD during the winter season. Through the years, he learned to prepare for the inevitable difficulties that come each year and now is proactive in preventing the disorder from derailing his life every winter.

As a graduate student and soon-to-be mom, Stacey was overwhelmed to the point of debilitating depression. She sought treatment to help her navigate through this difficult time; yet, the depression returned during pregnancy and postpartum. In the years since, Stacey has learned ways to manage her depression so it doesn’t control her life and happiness.

Though it started in her teenage years, it wasn’t until she was an adult that Vanessa realized she suffered from Skin Picking Disorder, also known as Dermatillomania. Since connecting with others with similar struggles, Vanessa found ways to manage it and live her life without shame. In this episode, she shares the raw emotions she experiences as she battles with the disorder.

Nisha Sathiyanathan graduated from Weber State University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. She then went on to graduate from the University of Utah with a Master of Social Work. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Nisha has experience working with OCD, Anxiety Disorders,Depression, Troubled Youth, Trauma, Couples, Families, and adolescents. Nisha works at her own private practice in Utah and loves bringing her Goldendoodle named Sunny with her to work. In this episode, she talks about mental illness misconceptions and she shares some of her own experiences that have helped her better understand her clients.

In March of 2020, Tatiana’s little sister died by suicide at the age of 20 after a long battle with mental illness. Consumed with grief, Tatiana scoured books and the Internet, looking for resources for loved ones dealing with suicide grief. She shares her story in hopes of helping others find healing after tragic loss. To those struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the national suicide/mental health crisis line 1-800-272-8225 or text TALK to 741741. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at AFSP.org is a great support resource for loss survivors.

Genesis Eve deals with severe depression that began in her youth. On Monday’s episode, she shares how it affects many aspects of her life, including her relationships, career, and her involvement in theater arts.

At age 20, Jane survived an unexpected and very dangerous ectopic pregnancy. In the aftermath of her traumatic experience, Jane suffered from PTSD. She shares her road to healing.