Mentally STRONG with Dr. B

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the intricacies of supporting grieving mothers with compassion and sensitivity. Dr. B navigates the challenging terrain of conversations surrounding loss and grief, offering valuable insights on what to say and, perhaps more importantly, what to avoid.

Supporting a grieving mother requires sensitivity and thoughtfulness. By reframing questions and responses, we can create a space that allows for meaningful conversations, fostering healing and understanding. 

1. Avoid Asking "What Happened?"

When engaging with a grieving mother, resist the impulse to inquire about the details of the child's death. Asking "What happened?" can be perceived as selfish, fueled by curiosity rather than genuine concern.
Instead, focus on the positive aspects of the child's life by asking, "Tell me about your child." Encourage the mother to share memories, preferences, and the child's unique personality, shifting the conversation towards celebration rather than the circumstances of their passing.
2. Skip the Generic "How Are You?"

Especially in the immediate aftermath of grief, asking a grieving mother, "How are you?" may not yield an authentic response. The complexity of emotions during this time makes it challenging to encapsulate one's feelings in a simple answer.
Instead, inquire about their thoughts and feelings at the moment. Ask, "What is going through your mind right now?" This opens the door for a more nuanced and honest conversation, allowing the mother to express the various emotions she might be experiencing on any given day.
3. Avoid Saying "I Understand"

Grieving is a deeply personal experience, and each person's pain is unique. Refrain from asserting that you understand the specific pain a grieving mother is going through.
Instead, express your willingness to support by asking, "How can I help you?" or inquire about their preferences regarding discussing the loss. Avoid comparisons, such as equating the loss of a child to other experiences, as this might hinder genuine connection and vulnerability.

Dr. B welcomes Carmina Blasko LPC, a mental health counselor with over 10 years of experience, to discuss strategies for navigating the holiday season with grace, resilience, and joy.

Carmina shares her insights on the importance of prioritizing self-care during the holidays, emphasizing the need to balance festive preparations with personal well-being. She highlights the benefits of mindfulness and gratitude practices in cultivating inner peace and appreciating the joys of the season.

Drawing from her clinical experience, Carmina emphasizes the significance of nurturing meaningful connections with loved ones during the holidays. She encourages listeners to engage in quality conversations, shared activities, and expressions of appreciation to strengthen their bonds.

Carmina also addresses the topic of stress management, providing practical tips for identifying signs of stress and implementing healthy coping mechanisms. She reminds listeners that seeking professional support is a valuable resource when needed.

Throughout the conversation, Carmina weaves personal anecdotes and expert advice, offering a holistic perspective on maintaining mental well-being during the holiday season.

Highlights:

Prioritize Self-Care: Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, remember to take time for yourself. Engage in activities that promote relaxation and rejuvenation, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.

Embrace Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness techniques to stay present in the moment and appreciate the joys of the season. Savor the sights, sounds, and smells of the holidays, and express gratitude for the blessings in your life.

Nurture Relationships: Foster meaningful connections with loved ones by making time for quality conversations, shared activities, and expressions of appreciation. Engage in activities that bring joy and strengthen your bonds.

Manage Stress Effectively: Recognize signs of stress and implement healthy coping mechanisms, such as deep breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, or seeking professional support when needed.

Seek Balance: Strike a balance between holiday preparations and personal well-being. Delegate tasks, set realistic expectations, and avoid feeling overwhelmed by the demands of the season.
 

 #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong 


👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
             ❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1

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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.

https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong

In this heartfelt and empowering podcast, Cristi Bundukamara shares a deeply personal journey of grief and the pursuit of gratitude in the face of unimaginable loss. With a story marked by the passing of three beloved children, the speaker offers genuine insights into the challenges of finding gratitude amid profound sorrow.

Timestamps:
00:01 Introduction
01:03 Personal Story
02:45 Struggles and Triumphs
04:51 Why Focus on the Positive

Key Insights:
1. Keep it Simple: The speaker advises against overthinking and encourages simplifying the search for gratitude, focusing on the loving relationships that bring joy.
2. Believe That You Can: Discussing the impact of self-improvement and the law of attraction, the speaker highlights the power of belief in shaping one's ability to find gratitude.
3. Win the Fight with Negative Thoughts: Acknowledging the internal battle, the speaker provides practical advice on overcoming negative thoughts and achieving a balance between grief and gratitude.

Conclusion:
In a world often driven by self-improvement and positive thinking, this video offers a raw and authentic perspective on finding gratitude while grieving. It's a testament to the speaker's resilience and the transformative power of simplicity, belief, and overcoming negative thoughts in the pursuit of healing.

Watch this video to discover a unique approach to navigating grief and uncovering gratitude amidst life's most challenging moments. If you're on a journey of healing or supporting someone in grief, this powerful narrative provides valuable insights and practical guidance.

#grief  #gratitude  #healingjourney  #copingwithloss  #selfimprovement  #positivethinking  #lawofattraction  #PersonalStory #mentalhealthmatters  #empowerment 
  #selfcare  #mindfulness  #personalgrowth  #empowerment  #mentalhealthmatters  #cristibundukamara  #painandpurpose  #mentalstrength  #mentallystrong  
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👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss and more...
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👉Help me turn my pain into purpose: Follow my public grief journey
            ❤️ www.mentallystrong.com/grief

👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
             ❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1

__________________________________________________________
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.

https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong

In this heartfelt podcast, join me on a journey of self-discovery and resilience as I, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, share my personal experiences with unimaginable pain and loss. Together, we'll explore how joy and pain can coexist and practical ways to find joy, even in the midst of grief and trauma.

Key Points:
- Understanding the choice of joy amidst pain
- Acknowledging the coexistence of joy and pain
- Practical strategies for navigating grief and trauma
- The significance of balance and separating elements from grief
- The importance of processing and cherishing the relationship

Whether you're grappling with your own grief or supporting someone through it, these insights provide valuable perspectives and actionable steps. Join the conversation and let's discover the strength to choose joy in the face of life's challenges.


🕐 Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: The coexistence of joy and pain
01:51 - Acknowledging the strength of pain and the choice of joy
02:49 - Practical steps to navigate pain and find joy
04:04 - Dialectical thinking in psychology and its role in processing grief
05:24 - Examples of dialectical thinking in personal experiences
07:17 - Balancing responsibility and processing controlled grief
09:15 - Discovering what truly brings you joy
10:45 - Reflecting on activities that bring joy, even in pain
13:01 - Striving for balance in the intensity of grief
14:45 - Separating elements from grief for effective processing
15:54 - The essence of processing grief as movement and cherishing the relationship

👍 If you found this video helpful, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more content on navigating life's challenges and finding joy through adversity.

#GriefAndJoy #MentalHealth #SelfDevelopment #Psychology #ChooseJoy #Resilience #PersonalGrowth

Listen as Dr. B demonstrates the process of a Mentally STRONG Method session.

Join Dr. Cristi Bundukamara in a heartfelt discussion about the complexities of grief and the journey towards healing. Drawing from personal experiences of losing three children over 17 years, Dr. Bundukamara challenges conventional grief theories and shares her insights on transforming pain into purpose.

🕰️ Timestamps:

00:00 Grief is Pain
01:21 Passion for Turning Pain into Purpose
02:40 Personal Experiences with Grief
04:30 Grief Theories Explored
06:52 Addressing Spiritual Conflict
08:54 Committing to the Grieving Process
09:55 Learning and Planning for the Future

🤔 Key Insights:
- The intensity of grief is linked to the strength of attachment.
- Exploring the concept of continuing bonds for spiritual connection.
- Challenging traditional grief theories and finding validation in personal pain.
- The dual process model of grief: A scientific perspective on the complicated nature of grieving.
- The importance of addressing spiritual conflicts during the grieving process.

📚 Recommended Resources:
- [Grief and Attachment Theory]
- [Continuing Bonds in Grief]
- [Dual Process Model of Grief]

🙏 Advice from Dr. Bundukamara:
1. Commit to the grieving process - acknowledge the pain.
2. Learn about yourself and others to find what works for you.
3. Make plans for the future, embracing the possibility of joy amidst pain.

🔗 Connect with Dr. Cristi Bundukamara:
- www.mentallystrongacademy.com
- www.cristibundukamara.com

🌈 Join the Conversation:
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let's support each other on the journey to mental strength and resilience.

🔔 Subscribe for More Insights:
Stay tuned for upcoming discussions on grief, mental health, and turning challenges into opportunities. Subscribe for regular updates.

#GriefAndHealing #TurningPainIntoPurpose #MentalStrength #DrCristiBundukamara #GriefTheories #PersonalGrowth #subscribenow 
 #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong 
________________________________________________________
👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss and more...
           ❤️www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong

👉 Stay Up To Date on our Mission: Join our mailing list!
          ❤️  http://eepurl.com/g2ya99

👉Help me turn my pain into purpose: Follow my public grief journey
            ❤️ www.mentallystrong.com/grief

👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
             ❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1

__________________________________________________________
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.

https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong

Welcome to an enlightening and thought-provoking podcast conversation that will take you on a journey to happiness, self-discovery, and enhanced mental fitness. In this engaging discussion, Suzanne Faber and Cristi Bundukamara share their insights into the intricacies of the human psyche, exploring how a deeper understanding of concepts like inner saboteurs and sage brains can pave the way for a more fulfilling and joyous life.

During this insightful conversation, you'll gain valuable insights into the complexities of our inner worlds. Suzanne Faber, a remarkable advocate for mental strength and a passionate executive health and wellness coach, shares her personal journey, drawing from her experiences as a special needs mom. She delves into the emotional toll of advocating for a child with unique needs and the resilience required to navigate life's challenges.

Cristi Bundukamara, an expert in cognitive behavioral psychology, offers her perspective on the vital role that mental strength plays in our contemporary society. Together, they explore the concept of inner saboteurs, those self-defeating thought patterns and behaviors that can hinder our progress and happiness.

As the conversation unfolds, you'll discover the transformative power of embracing inner saboteurs and fostering a sage brain, which is synonymous with greater wisdom and insight. By understanding and conquering these internal obstacles, you can open doors to a life brimming with purpose, fulfillment, and joy.

So, whether you're seeking personal growth, looking to overcome challenges, or simply intrigued by the fascinating realms of the human mind, this podcast will provide you with valuable takeaways and inspiration for your own journey toward a happier and more mentally fit life. Join us on this path of self-discovery and empowerment as we unlock the keys to your inner happiness.

00:00 Introduction
01:26 Suzanne Faber shares her personal story.
04:01 The emotional toll of advocating for a child with special needs.
07:30 Discussing the mentally strong method and cognitive behavioral psychology.
10:11 Suzanne's passion for making a difference in people's lives.
11:09 The need for mental strength and life coaching in today's society.
13:00 Exploring inner saboteurs and understanding their impact.
14:30 Uncovering the impact of saboteurs on behavior.
15:24 Cristi's perspective on the importance of understanding saboteurs.
16:33 Suzanne's resilience and journey as a special needs mom.

 #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong 

Find Suzanne Faber:
Instagram: Suz_FaberWellness
Facebook: Suzanne Faber https://www.facebook.com/suzanne.faber.798/

________________________________________________________
👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss and more...
           ❤️www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong

👉 Stay Up To Date on our Mission: Join our mailing list!
          ❤️  http://eepurl.com/g2ya99

__________________________________________________________
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.

https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong

My son is dead.

October 30th 2016, it's been 7 years. 

In this deeply moving video, we hear the heartfelt and harrowing journey of a mother who lost her beloved son, Reggie, seven years ago. October 30th marks the anniversary of his passing, and the pain remains as poignant as ever.

Cristi Bundukamara, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, shares her heart-wrenching experience and offers three invaluable tips for those who are navigating intense grief. Reggie was born as a healthy and happy child, but as he grew, signs of a more profound issue began to surface. The video recounts the distressing moments when Reggie's health took a devastating turn, leading to a diagnosis of catastrophic epilepsy.

Cristi's tale takes us through the tumultuous path of her son's health struggles, hospitalizations, and her relentless quest for healing solutions. She shares the fateful day when she called 9-1-1, not knowing that it would be the day she'd lose her beloved son. Her raw account of the paramedics' actions and her own emotional turmoil is both heartbreaking and incredibly brave.

Throughout the video, Cristi Bundukamara imparts her wisdom gained from her seven-year journey through grief. Her three essential tips for those enduring similar pain are:

1. Do Not Give Up (Timestamp: 05:57): She encourages those in the midst of anguish to keep holding on, even when the pain seems insurmountable.

2. Feel the Pain (Timestamp: 04:51): Acknowledge and embrace the pain that comes with anniversaries and holidays, allowing it to be a part of the healing process.

3. Address Spiritual Conflict (Timestamp: 05:57): Whether you believe in a higher power or not, explore the spiritual aspect of your grief. It can be a significant part of the healing process, even if it involves feelings of anger or confusion.

Cristi Bundukamara's story is an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable loss. Join her as she embarks on her annual 45 days of grief journey, offering practical advice and support for those seeking to navigate their own paths of grief and healing.

Please take a moment to watch this powerful and heartwarming video, and if you find it valuable, consider subscribing to Cristi's channel for more insightful content on dealing with grief and cherishing the memory of loved ones.


00:00 - Introduction to Cristi Bundukamara's story of loss and grief.
01:15 - The early years of Reggie's life and the signs of an underlying issue.
02:59 - The devastating diagnosis of catastrophic epilepsy and the challenges that followed.
04:51 - The heart-wrenching day when Cristi called 9-1-1, not knowing it would be her son's last.
05:57 - Three essential tips for coping with intense grief
07:55 - Cristi Bundukamara's inspiring journey through grief and healing.
08:42 - Join Cristi's annual 45 days of grief journey for practical advice and support

Feel free to use this list as a reference in the YouTube description to help viewers easily find specific moments in the video.

__________________________________________________________
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.

https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong

Join Cristi Bundukamara, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, as she delves into the world of hypersomnolence, a condition where individuals experience excessive daytime sleepiness. Cristi provides valuable insights into how healthcare professionals can diagnose and differentiate hypersomnolence from other conditions. She emphasizes the importance of self-reported sleep schedules and the impact of sleep patterns on daily life.

Cristi also highlights the significance of ruling out underlying medical conditions and substance use, as both can contribute to hypersomnolence. Her expert knowledge shines through as she discusses conditions such as narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and the effects of substance abuse on sleep patterns. Cristi also touches upon the link between hypersomnolence and mental health issues, reminding us that addressing the whole person is essential for effective treatment.

If you or someone you know is struggling with excessive sleepiness or related symptoms, this video is a must-watch. Cristi Bundukamara's expertise provides clarity and guidance for those seeking to understand and manage hypersomnolence.

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful content from Cristi Bundukamara, your trusted source for psychiatric healthcare information.

 #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong 

__________________________________________________________
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.

https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong

In this heartfelt and informative podcast, Cristi Bundukamara, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and grief expert, shares her profound insights on the complex emotions and challenges associated with grief. She discusses the fight or flight response, self-love, and the importance of separating grief from trauma and negative thoughts. Cristi also explores spiritual conflict and how to find meaning after loss.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Fight or Flight Response in Grief
00:01:00 - The Importance of Self-Love and Grace in Grief
00:02:30 - Separating Grief from Trauma
00:03:30 - Coping with Spiritual Conflict in Grief
00:06:00 - Addressing Negative Thoughts in Grief
00:09:00 - Finding Spiritual Connection and Meaning
00:12:00 - The Coexistence of Joy and Pain
00:16:00 - Taking Action to Transform Pain into Purpose

Cristi shares personal stories and valuable advice for those dealing with grief. If you or someone you know is navigating the challenging journey of grief, this video offers guidance, support, and hope.

Please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more insightful content on mental health and well-being.

#griefsupport  #fightorflight  #mentalhealthmatters #copingwithloss  #PsychiatricNurse #GriefExpert #selfcare  #mindfulness  #personalgrowth  #empowerment  #mentalhealthmatters  #cristibundukamara  #painandpurpose  #mentalstrength  #mentallystrong  
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👉 READ MY STORY: Pain & Purpose: My Journey to Mental Strength
           ❤️https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJYMDG1D

👉 Stay Up To Date on our Mission: Join our mailing list!
          ❤️  http://eepurl.com/g2ya99

👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
             ❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1

__________________________________________________________
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.

https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong