My Feelings Over Tea Podcast

In this episode, we dive into the critical conversation of normalizing mental health within minoritized communities. Dr. NaKaisha expands upon Episode 5, where she and guest Junko Yamauchi, LMFT, discussed stigma in the Asian community. She explores the importance of removing stigma and fostering an environment where open dialogue is welcomed. Listening without judgment can be a powerful tool for supporting those facing mental health challenges. Dr. NaKaisha discusses how you can support those experiencing isolation and highlights avenues for change. Join Dr. NaKaisha as she shines a light on the struggles and strengths within minoritized communities, empowering listeners to be allies in promoting mental wellness and building supportive networks.

It's okay not to be okay, and it is also okay to seek help for your mental health concerns. Let's normalize mental health conversations in our families, workplaces, churches, and communities. One conversation can change someone's life! 

In today's episode, we dive deep into the stigma surrounding mental illness, particularly within minority communities. Join Dr. NaKaisha and her special guest, Junko Yamauchi, LMFT, as they explore the challenges faced in the Asian community, where stigma often prevents open discussions about mental health. It’s crucial to remember: it’s okay not to be okay.

Together, they’ll discuss how we as a community can work to eradicate this stigma and why speaking up about our struggles is essential for healing. Ms. Yamauchi will share insights on how the younger generation is actively speaking out in support of mental health awareness by engaging in treatment within the Asian community. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that empowers us all to support one another in our mental health journeys. Don’t miss it!

In this episode of My Feelings Over Tea, Dr. NaKaisha discusses a recent conversation she engaged in regarding “being seen.” She will explore the profound meaning of visibility in our lives. What does it truly mean to be seen, and what challenges arise when we feel invisible? Join Dr. NaKaisha as she delves into the mental health impacts of feeling overlooked versus being acknowledged. How does one cultivate connection and recognition in a world that often overlooks us and folks feel isolated. Discover strategies to help you feel seen, valued, and understood. Everyone longs for visibility—tune in to navigate this complex journey and embrace the power of being truly seen.

In this episode, Dr. NaKaisha explores the golden nuggets unearthed during the challenging pandemic of 2020. Despite the tragic loss of millions worldwide and the profound devastation caused by COVID-19 through 2023, this episode highlights how finding hope and hidden treasures amidst hardship can uplift and inspire one’s soul. Why do you think it is essential for one to explore and utilize what keeps them mentally healthy during challenging times in life? Join Dr. NaKaisha as she delves into practices for soul-searching and discovering the good in life, offering guidance on how to find and cherish these golden nuggets and support someone else in a challenging circumstance.

This episode is dedicated to slowing down and finding peace through meditation. In today's fast-paced world, it is so easy for us to feel overwhelmed and stressed by the many things life has to offer. Join Dr. NaKaisha as she explores the transformative power of mindfulness through conversation and a guided meditation. Her calming nature is just what the doctor ordered. Just a few minutes of mindful presence a day, can do wonders for your mental health. Whether you are new to meditation or you are a seasoned practitioner, prepare your tea to sip while Dr. NaKaisha invites you to pause, breathe, and connect to the present moment.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the My Feelings Over Tea podcast. In today’s episode I’m going to let you in on how this podcast came to be, what we will be discussing during the episodes, and how I hope this podcast can help you and lessen the stigma attached to mental illness.

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 20 years and am also a Certified EmpowerMEnt Life Coach and Certified Laughter Yoga Leader. Through all that I have done, I have been deeply connected to advocating for mental health. When people around me encouraged me to start podcasting, I resisted at first, until I realized the awareness I could raise and the connections I could make with people. 

Mental health is our foundation. Without self-awareness of your thoughts and feelings as it pertains to your mental health, various aspects of your life can be impacted. Throughout the course of this podcast I want to help you talk through important topics and dispel mental health myths. I will talk about tough topics like being black in America, mental health in the black community, and the impact of mental health on maternal health and many other issues. These are things we absolutely need to talk about. 

If you can take away anything from this first episode, I hope it’s that you allow your feelings to flow freely; they are valid and so are you. Take time to honor yourself for self-care. Remember that change is the law of life and always respect others, even if you don’t agree with them. I hope to see you in the next episode as we continue to learn and grow together over a cup of tea.

Find out more on my website: https://www.nakaishatolbertbanks.com