Mental Health and Blindness Feat. Lea Gaffen-Kessel

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Blindsight, a podcast focused on addressing mental health, especially in the context of blindness. Hosted by Bill Lundgren, the episode kicks off with essential announcements regarding the change of the show's sponsorship agency to Aftersight. Our guest today is Lea Gaffen-Kessel, a clinical social worker with vast experience in dealing with vision-related health issues and mental health. Lea shares personal anecdotes about her vision deterioration due to retinitis pigmentosa, her dealings with anxiety and depression as a result, and how she learned to cope with the changes in her life. The discussion extends to the need for mental health support for the visually impaired, the importance of adapting and accepting the changes that come with vision loss. Make sure to send in your feedback at [email protected] or call us at 720 712 8856. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this enlightening discussion next week.

To follow along with a transcript of this show, please click on the link below

https://share.descript.com/view/J3EDT2o9Hn6

00:02 Introduction to Blindsight

00:20 Welcome to the Show and Announcements

01:42 Introducing the Guest: Lea Gaffen-Kessel

02:14 Lea's Journey with Vision Loss and Mental Health

04:06 The Intersection of Mental Health and Vision Loss

07:56 The Challenges of Being Blind in the Mental Health Community

12:35 Lea's Personal Struggles and Coping Mechanisms

22:23 The Impact of Acceptance and Adaptation

30:36 Lea's Support Group and Future Plans

32:39 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Thank you for checking out our show. Please like and share your comments about this show or any of our other shows. Have a great week!