In this special episode of "Raising a Beautiful Mind," we're talking with Isreal and Jenn, youth mental health advocates. They share their profound insights and personal journeys, shedding light on the complex process of diagnosing bipolar disorder in young people and the profound effects it has on their lives and development. Isreal and Jenn will also share their thoughts on how schools, doctors, and communities can improve at helping young people who are struggling. This conversation is important for anyone who wants to learn more about helping friends, family, or anyone else who might be facing similar challenges.

Links mentioned in segment:

More about Mensana & Jen:

In this pivotal episode of "Transforming School Mental Health" we have the honor of welcoming Dr. Sharon Hoover, Co-Director of the National Center for School Mental Health (NCSMH). With a profound dedication to enhancing mental wellness in educational environments, Dr. Hoover brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our conversation, shedding light on the essence of school mental health. Join us as we delve into a comprehensive discussion that explores the multifaceted nature of mental health support within our schools, confronting the barriers and unveiling the opportunities that lie in creating resilient, supportive, and inclusive educational communities.

More about Dr. Hoover: https://www.medschool.umaryland.edu/profiles/hoover-sharon/

National Center for School Mental Health: https://www.schoolmentalhealth.org/

NCSMH Annual Conference: https://www.schoolmentalhealth.org/annual-conference/

More about Mensana & Jen: www.mymensana.com

Parent of a child with mental health needs: https://mymensana.com/raising-a-beautiful-mind/

Organizations wanting to start to exceed outcomes for your youth, staff, and families? https://mymensana.com/system-wide-change/

Professional Development Opportunities: https://mymensana.com/system-wide-change/

Challenging Behavior Academy: https://mymensana.com/challenging-behavior-academy/

Online Courses: https://mymensana.com/online-mental-health-courses/

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On Raising a Beautiful Mind, we sit down with Elena Breese, founder of Still Blooming Me, mental health advocate and survivor of the Boston Marathon bombing. In this episode, Elena shares her intimate battle with PTSD and her transformative journey towards healing. Her story is a testament to resilience, the power of support, and the strength found in vulnerability. Tune in to discover how Elena's experience has propelled her to champion mental wellness for others, inspiring hope and change within our communities. This is a must join episode.

 More about Elena:

Still Blooming Me: https://www.stillbloomingme.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stillbloomingme/

Mensana & Jen:

Mental Health Justice Storytelling Project- A chance to tell your story anonymously: https://forms.gle/Pg5MNvJrzENynWEEA

Mensana Social Media

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mymensana

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mymensana/

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/mymensana

Website https:www.mymensana.com Newsletter https://mymensana.mykajabi.com/newsletter

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Nikki Fynn, an expert in mental and relational health, to explore the world of challenging behaviors in youth. Dr. Fynn unravels what these behaviors signify and equips us with effective strategies to address and guide them positively. Whether you're a parent, educator, or mental health professional, join us to gain a deeper understanding of the young minds we're nurturing and learn how to navigate their complexities with compassion and skill.

More about Dr. Nikki Fynn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-fynn-writerandhealtheducator/

More about Mensana & Jen: Mental Health Justice Storytelling Project- A chance to tell your story anonymously: https://forms.gle/Pg5MNvJrzENynWEEA

Mensana Social Media Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mymensana

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mymensana/

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/mymensana

Website https:www.mymensana.com

Newsletter https://mymensana.mykajabi.com/newsletter

Dive deep into the world of mental health advocacy with Dr. Jennifer Ulie in the debut episode of Raising a Beautiful Mind  @mymensana  As a seasoned expert and passionate advocate, Jennifer shares her personal journey, laying the foundation for what this podcast aims to achieve. Explore the power of stories and voices in shaping the mental health narrative and understand why amplifying them is crucial for lasting change. This isn’t just a journey for professionals or those directly affected—Jennifer extends a hand to all listeners, offering essential tips every parent can employ. Join us in this groundbreaking episode as we embark on a mission to redefine and revolutionize the conversation around mental health.

Learning Lab: www.mymensana.com/learning-lab

Toolkit for Parents Navigating Schools & Mental Health: https://mymensana.com/parent-back-to-school-mental-health-checklist/

How to Find a Therapist: https://medium.com/raising-a-beautiful-mind/therapy-for-kids-9-essential-steps-for-parents-in-finding-the-right-therapist-ce37baee7dc

Key Takeaways:

3:01 Why a podcast?

8:46 The reality of mental health by the numbers

15:30 Why it's time to take mental health voices out of the shadows

19:20 How do our systems invest in mental health vs. other medical conditions

28:15 Re-evaluating to invest in what works

34:25 Recommendations for parents/caregivers on mental health journey

45:02 If you need help with schools and mental health

48:30 What I wish someone would have handed me decades ago