Understanding Mental Health and Disability: A Conversation with Lea Gaffen-Kessel

In this episode of 'BlindSight', host Bill Lundgren engages in a comprehensive discussion with guest, Lea Gaffen-Kessel, who shares her experiences dealing with blindness and the journey towards becoming a social worker. They highlight the importance of mental health, and refute societal stereotypes surrounding disabilities. They also delve into the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals in their professional and personal lives, including negative stigma, social isolation, and the struggle for accessibility in various sectors. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of being assertive, not aggressive, to break barriers and normalize disabilities. It ends with encouragement for those with disabilities who might need mental health support to seek help, shedding the shame associated with it.

If you would like to follow along with the transcript of this episode, please click on the link below.

https://share.descript.com/view/3lq3bMp0KWn

00:00 Introduction to BlindSight

00:20 Welcome to the Show and Introduction of Guest

00:59 Discussing the Challenges of Marketing to Optometrists

02:21 The Struggles of Networking and Outreach

03:42 Overcoming Prejudices and Misconceptions

05:22 The Importance of Assertiveness and Confidence

06:21 Addressing Internal Prejudices and Limiting Beliefs

06:31 Challenging Limitations and Encouraging Risk-Taking

08:48 The Future of Accessibility and Independence

10:33 The Struggles and Triumphs of Being a Social Worker with Vision Impairment

11:04 The Power of Technology in Enhancing Accessibility

13:33 The Role of Support Groups and Technology in Overcoming Isolation

14:36 The Importance of Mental Health Support

14:56 The Impact of Assertiveness and Confidence on Quality of Life

25:18 The Importance of Assertiveness in Achieving Accessibility

28:53 The Struggles and Triumphs of Being a Therapist with Vision Impairment

32:16 The Importance of Mental Health Support for People with Disabilities

44:25 Conclusion and Farewell

Thank you for listening to this episode of Blindsight. If you enjoyed this episode, please like and share it with everyone you come in contact with. If you have any questions or comments, we would love to hear them, and you can contact us at feedback at after sight.org or give us a call at 720-712-8856.