In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Nya Buom, a clinical psychologist and model, to explore the intersection of mental health and the modeling industry. As the first woman from South Sudan to earn a PhD in clinical psychology, Dr. Buom brings a unique perspective on the pressures of perfection, body image, and resilience.

We discuss the hidden mental health struggles that exist behind success in any high-pressure field, the impact of social media and unrealistic beauty standards on self-esteem, and how to separate self-worth from external validation. Dr. Buom also shares practical strategies for handling rejection, preventing burnout, and building confidence—whether you're navigating the demands of modeling, academics, corporate life, or any other competitive environment.

Time Stamps:

0:00 - Introduction to Dr. Naya's Journey

2:59 - The Realities of Modeling

6:09 - Processing Rejection in the Industry

8:48 - Balancing Dual Careers: Modeling and Psychologist

11:53 - Dealing with Burnout

14:48 - Building Support Systems in Competitive Environments

17:50 - Navigating Social Media and Its Impact

20:47 - The Importance of Authenticity

24:03 - Addressing Equity and Inclusion in the Industry

27:11 - Actionable Tips for Mental Health

30:14 - Conclusion and Resources

Follow us on Instagram: @mhen2.mentalhealth

Check out Dr. Nya on Instagram: @drbuom

Do you have a unique perspective to share or have any questions, topic suggestions, or general inquiries? Email @[email protected]

If you need immediate mental health assistance please connect with available resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (chat also available on their website) https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/ Crisis Text Line by texting "HOME" to 741741 2nd Floor Youth Helpline (NJ teens only) at 888-222-2228 (call or text) The Trevor Project (specializing in LGBTQ+) call at 1-866-488-7386, or text "START" to 678678. Chat also available on their website.https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

In this episode, a group of high school boys interview Dr. Justin Garber PsyD, a clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience practicing psychotherapy. In addition to currently running his own private practice, "Restorative Psychological Services," Dr. Garber has worked in a variety of settings ranging from outpatient private practice to inpatient psychiatry units at the Department of Veterans Affairs. For years, Dr. Garber specialized in helping people struggling with the effects of trauma.

Time Stamps:

0:00 - Introduction and Background of Dr. Garber

3:21 - The Mental Health Crisis and the Role of Therapy

11:23 - The Impact of Societal Changes on Mental Health

20:54 - Treating the Person, Not Just the Symptoms

29:21 - Supporting Someone Resistant to Seeking Help

35:24 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Follow us on Instagram: @mhen2.mentalhealth

Any questions, topic suggestions, or general inquiries? Email @[email protected]

If you need immediate mental health assistance please connect with available resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (chat also available on their website) https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/ Crisis Text Line by texting "HOME" to 741741 2nd Floor Youth Helpline (NJ teens only) at 888-222-2228 (call or text) The Trevor Project (specializing in LGBTQ+) call at 1-866-488-7386, or text "START" to 678678. Chat also available on their website.https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

In this episode, a group of high school boys interview Michael Leubling, a licensed counselor who works for Care Plus NJ. Michael is an experienced counselor who provides fantastic insight into the current mental health crisis that is upon the world. He first talks about what he has witnessed regarding men's mental health as well as mental health as a whole. Next, Michael describes his experience as a clinician at Care Plus NJ, describing how mental health treatment has adapted in positive ways since COVID. In addition, he conveys that there are still many barriers and problems preventing mental health treatment from being easily accessible to all individuals, no matter where they live, their background, or their financial status. Finally, Michael gives advice on how individuals can provide care and support to friends and loved ones who are struggling.

Follow us on Instagram: @mhen2.mentalhealth

Any questions, topic suggestions, or general inquiries? Email @[email protected]

If you need immediate mental health assistance please connect with available resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (chat also available on their website) https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/ Crisis Text Line by texting "HOME" to 741741 2nd Floor Youth Helpline (NJ teens only) at 888-222-2228 (call or text) The Trevor Project (specializing in LGBTQ+) call at 1-866-488-7386, or text "START" to 678678. Chat also available on their website.https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

In this episode, a group of high schoolers interviews Mr. Klump, a Student Assistance Counselor, and Mr. Torres, a school social worker. Mr. Klump and Torres share their experience creating and working in a Wellness Center, a physical location in school dedicated to supporting all students' mental health needs. Additionally, Mr. Klump and Torres talk about their work towards improving the mental wellness of the staff at their school and provide guidance on ways that mental wellness can be incorporated into any environment from the workplace to sports teams.

Follow us on Instagram: @mhen2.mentalhealth

Any questions, topic suggestions, or general inquiries? Email @[email protected]

If you need immediate mental health assistance please connect with available resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (chat also available on their website) https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/ Crisis Text Line by texting "HOME" to 741741 2nd Floor Youth Helpline (NJ teens only) at 888-222-2228 (call or text) The Trevor Project (specializing in LGBTQ+) call at 1-866-488-7386, or text "START" to 678678. Chat also available on their website.https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

In this episode, a group of high school boys interview Matthew John Bocchi, a survivor of devastating loss, emotional and psychological trauma, and sexual assault. Through sharing his moving story and experiences, Matthew delivers a message of hope and perseverance. Additionally, Matthew shares guidance on how to deal with trauma in a healthy way and how to properly provide support to a friend, family member, or loved one who is going through some kind of mental health or substance use disorder.

Matthew is also the author of a wonderfully written memoir, SWAY, the first story told by a child of 9/11. The link to purchase Matthew's book can be found here: https://a.co/d/7Tw88Em or on his website: https://www.matthewjohnbocchi.com

Feel free to reach out to MHEN2 and Matthew on Instagram: @mhen2.mental health and @mattyboch

Any questions, topic suggestions, or general inquiries? Email [email protected]

If you need immediate mental health assistance please connect with available resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (chat also available on their website) https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/ Crisis Text Line by texting "HOME" to 741741 2nd Floor Youth Helpline (NJ teens only) at 888-222-2228 (call or text) The Trevor Project (specializing in LGBTQ+) call at 1-866-488-7386, or text "START" to 678678. Chat is also available on their website.https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

In this episode, a group of high school boys interview Dan Joseph, a Former United States Army Combat Engineer, author, and psychology master's graduate, about leadership and the importance of proactively strengthening one's mental health and resilience. Dan first shares how mental health issues have affected himself and those around him in the military. Then, Dan uses his expert knowledge and experience to answer questions and share the secrets of how to be an effective leader. Finally, Dan shares healthy ways to deal with mental challenges.

Link to purchase Dan's book "Backpackj to Rucksack: Insight Into Leadership and Resilience From Military Experts": https://www.amazon.com/Backpack-Rucksack-Leadership-Resilience-Military/dp/B0BRQB8HSY

Follow us on Instagram: @mhen2.mentalhealth

Any questions, topic suggestions, or general inquiries? Email [email protected]

If you need immediate mental health assistance please connect with available resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (chat also available on their website) https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/ Crisis Text Line by texting "HOME" to 741741 2nd Floor Youth Helpline (NJ teens only) at 888-222-2228 (call or text) The Trevor Project (specializing in LGBTQ+) call at 1-866-488-7386, or text "START" to 678678. Chat is also available on their website.https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

In this episode, a group of high school boys get together and discuss the mental health challenges that they and many other students like them currently face when starting the college application process. It is extremely taxing on one's mental health to have to worry about visits and getting the perfect standardized test score, while still trying to manage summer responsibilities and regular schoolwork. It is important for all upcoming Seniors to take a step back and try to manage the unavoidable load without destroying one's mental health in the process.

Follow us on Instagram: @mhen2.mentalhealth

Any questions, topic suggestions, or general inquiries? Email @[email protected]

In this episode, a group of high school guys get together and discuss the mental health challenges that face athletes. Most athletes only focus on how they are physically because that is the only thing they think affects how they play. However, there is also a huge psychological aspect at play. Oliver, Mike, Ryan, and Ethan have a general conversation about how mental health issues affect almost every athlete, share past and current personal struggles they have faced through their years of playing sports, techniques they have used which have helped them, and much more.

Follow us on Instagram: @mhen2.mentalhealth

Any questions, topics suggestions, or general inquiries? Email @[email protected]