Mentally STRONG Academy Podcast: Recent Episodes
Mentally STRONG Academy
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, ED.D PMHNP-BC is the founder of Mentally STRONG, outpatient mental health facility, Mentally STRONG Academy, training and education on The Mentally STRONG Method, and creator of The Mentally STRONG Method, a cognitive behavioral approach. Join Dr. B and other guests as they explore how the method makes you Mentally STRONGer.
🧠💪Start Healing with This Powerful Self-Reflection Tool: Think Organize Choose Worksheet: https://mentallystrong.ac-page.com/thinkorganizechoose
It's hard to even speak about the news coming out of Texas – my heart aches for those families. As a mother who lost my son, Johnny, in a drowning accident years ago, this story cuts deep. In this video, I share my initial reaction as both a grieving mother and a psychiatric NP, and I walk through how the "think, organize, choose" method can help us process these heavy emotions. If you're feeling the weight of this tragedy, please know you're not alone. Let's try to navigate this together.
📘 Want to learn the Mentally STRONG Method? Visit https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
🧠 Free tools and downloads:https://mentallystrong.ac-page.com/thinkorganizechoose
🗣 Subscribe for weekly insights on mental health, resilience, and living mentally STRONG.
PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
🧠💪Start Healing with This Powerful Self-Reflection Tool: Think Organize Choose Worksheet: https://mentallystrong.ac-page.com/thinkorganizechoose
What if everything you’ve been told about depression only tells half the story?
In this video, Dr. B—psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of the Mentally STRONG Method—breaks down what most doctors don’t explain:
👉 Depression is not just a chemical imbalance.
👉 It’s not just negative thinking.
👉 It’s a whole-person experience—where biology, psychology, and personal meaning collide.
We’ll unpack:
The brain chemicals involved (serotonin, dopamine, GABA, glutamate—and more)
The major psychological theories (Beck, Seligman, attachment, and beyond)
Why true healing must go beyond pills or talk therapy alone
How to start reclaiming mental strength through integrated understanding
Whether you're struggling with depression or supporting someone who is, this video will give you a clearer, deeper view—and hope.
📘 Want to learn the Mentally STRONG Method? Visit https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
🧠 Free tools and downloads:https://mentallystrong.ac-page.com/thinkorganizechoose
🗣 Subscribe for weekly insights on mental health, resilience, and living mentally STRONG.
Depression #MentalHealth #MentalStrength #WhatDoctorsDontTellYou #Serotonin #Psychology #Neuroscience #DrB #MentallySTRONG
PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
🧠💪Start Healing with This Powerful Self-Reflection Tool: Think Organize Choose Worksheet: https://mentallystrong.ac-page.com/thinkorganizechoose
What Therapists DON'T Tell You About Trauma
Are you stuck in your trauma story? You've likely heard that talking about it helps—but what if that's not the full truth?
In this powerful video, Dr. B, founder of the Mentally STRONG Method, reveals what most therapists don’t tell you: repeating your trauma story without a strategy can actually re-traumatize you. It’s time for a different approach—one that empowers you to think clearly, organize your pain, and choose healing.
✅ Download the FREE Think, Organize, and Choose Worksheet
This practical worksheet walks you through a 3-step mental processing framework so you can stop spinning in your story—and start breaking free.
👉 https://mentallystrong.ac-page.com/thinkorganizechoose
🎯 In this video, you’ll learn:
Why trauma gets “stuck” in your mind and body
How traditional talk therapy can keep you looping
The Mentally STRONG way to process trauma without reliving it
How to use the “Think, Organize, Choose” worksheet in your healing journey
⚡ Stop coping. Start choosing.
Your trauma is real—but it doesn’t define your future.
👇 Watch now and take the first step toward authentic mental strength.
TraumaHealing #MentalStrength #TherapistTruths #MentallySTRONG #DrB #EmotionalHealing #CPTSD #ThinkOrganizeChoose#mentallystrong #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
🧠💪Start Healing with This Powerful Self-Reflection Tool: Think Organize Choose Worksheet: https://mentallystrong.ac-page.com/thinkorganizechoose
After 26 years of marriage, I found myself alone — a widow, grieving, and forever changed. In this video, I share what I’ve learned on this journey of grief and growth, using the Mentally STRONG Method as my guide. If you are walking through loss, transition, or quiet moments that echo with the past, this message is for you.
💬 What I learned:
👉How to THINK through the fog of grief and find clarity
👉How to ORGANIZE the emotional chaos that loss brings
👉How to CHOOSE to live again with purpose and strength
This isn’t about moving on — it’s about moving through with strength and grace. You can find healing, even in your deepest pain.
🔔 Subscribe to the Mentally STRONG YouTube Channel
Get tools, stories, and strategies that build real mental strength: youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
mentallystrong #griefjourney #widowstory #healingafterloss #mentalhealthawareness #CristiBundukamara #drb #emotionalresilience #selfgrowth #PowerOfChoice #ThinkOrganizeChoose #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
🧠💪Start Healing with This Powerful Self-Reflection Tool: Think Organize Choose Worksheet: https://mentallystrong.ac-page.com/thinkorganizechoose
Sometimes, a movie can hit you harder than you ever expect, unearthing emotions you thought were buried. That's exactly what happened to me with Tyler Perry's new film, Straw. As a grieving mother, it brought up so much, and I want to share my raw, honest experience with you, hoping it helps you feel less alone in your own journey with triggers and loss.
In this video, I talk about:
Triggers & Confronting Pain
The movie Straw was a huge trigger for me. I teach that we need to learn to respond to our triggers, not run from them. How do we confront our pain? Triggers are just a reminder of our pain.
I didn't think Straw would trigger me. I wasn't a single mother, which is how the film was presented. But it delivered a huge punch to my gut, physically, mentally, and emotionally. We all feel overwhelmed by life sometimes, like we could snap.
A Grieving Mother's Perspective
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, and more importantly, a mother who has lost three children and my husband, my experience comes from real life. When I watched Straw, I empathized with the single mother, but I didn't realize it would be a trigger.
Running Into the Storm
You can't control grief triggers; they will come at you. But you can learn to expand and confront that pain.
Dissociative States & PTSD
When our pain is intense, like losing a child, we can experience dissociative states – moments of lapsed time, where we don't know what's real. For a year after finding my child had died, I'd relive it every morning. This movie is a powerful example of a dissociative state, and the separation from reality that can happen when you break.
My Healing Journey & Helping Others
I reach out to others who have lost children, like a beautiful girl named Michaela, who died in her sleep, just like my Miah. By pouring my heart into that mother, I'm confronting my own grief and hoping she can find some of the healing I have found.
The Work is Yours
Just like a caterpillar pushes through the cocoon to become a butterfly, the muscles gained by pushing through pain allow us to fly. No one can rescue you from your pain. While a strong support system is vital, the actual work of confronting and working through your pain is yours. If you can work through that pain, you can find beauty and joy in it. My journey led to a new spiritual awakening, a realization that time and space aren't real, and that my loved ones are still with me.
Don't Run From Your Triggers
Don't run from your triggers. If you know they're coming, prepare for them, just as I do when connecting with a mother who lost her child in the same way I lost mine. This movie was an unknown trigger, but that's life. It hit hard because I wasn't expecting it. This film's power comes from its unexpected reveal of a dissociative state – that feeling of having snapped, a reality for many who have experienced profound loss. Please don't give up on yourself or your purpose. It is possible to find joy and purpose through the pain.
If you're navigating loss and seeking to understand your triggers, I hope my story resonates. You can learn to build strength and find purpose, even in the deepest pain.
mentallystrong #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
Straw #StrawMovie #StrawTylerPerryMovie #StrawEndingExplained #StrawMovieReaction #StrawMovieReview #StrawTwistExplained
I’d love to share a free worksheet I created to help with reflection during hard moments:
👉 https://mentallystrong.ac-page.com/thinkorganizechoose
When you're a grieving mother, the world can feel completely upside down. People often ask me how I manage to keep going, to find the strength to continue living when a piece of my heart is missing. The truth is, there's no magic answer or quick fix for the immense pain of child loss. But there are choices we can make, even in the darkest moments, that can help us navigate this incredibly difficult journey.
In this video, I'm sharing my personal story of grief and healing after losing my son Johnny, then my son Reggie, and most recently, my daughter Miah. Each loss presented its own unique challenges and depths of despair, but through it all, I've clung to two core principles that have become my anchors. This isn't about pretending the pain isn't there, or being "over" your loss. It's about finding a way to choose life and purpose, even when every fiber of your being wants to give up. My hope is that by sharing my vulnerability, you'll feel seen, understood, and a little less alone on your own path of healing from loss.
If you're a grieving mother or someone navigating profound loss, I hope my story resonates with you. Remember, you're not alone, and even small choices can make a difference.
Please subscribe to my channel for more honest conversations and practical guidance on navigating grief and building mental strength. And if this video spoke to you, please leave a comment below and share your thoughts.
#PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
In this episode, Dr. B explains how emotional transformation isn’t about a breakthrough moment… it’s about building strength month by month. Using the Mentally STRONG Method, you’ll learn how to shift your thinking, process what’s holding you back, and start making decisions that align with peace, purpose, and healing.
💡 What you’ll learn:
Why emotional pain stays stuck — and how to move it
The monthly building blocks to regain mental clarity
How the Mentally STRONG Method helps you think, organize, and choose on purpose
🎁 Get your FREE copy of Dr. B’s book “Pain and Purpose”
👉 mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
🎥 Want more guidance? Join Dr. B live to learn the Mentally STRONG Method
👉 https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/IWZX4oS-tFqrubKQSIf_kUdPoiCmwwEiZoWg8SMbhZrXrdyiXWyTJPX_o1eJZkn3.qjEvYpBrYt1zL9Bm?startTime=1747767027000
EmotionalHealing #MentallySTRONG #DrB #MentalHealthJourney #GriefRecovery #SelfHealing #mentallystrong #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
Are your mornings chaotic, heavy, or just emotionally flat?
Dr. B, mental strength expert and creator of the Mentally STRONG Method, shares 5 powerful morning habits that help you reset emotionally, mentally, and spiritually — even if you're not a “morning person.”
These are the real habits — not hustle routines.
You’ll learn how to regulate your circadian rhythm, care for your mental health, check in with your emotions, move with purpose, and align spiritually — all in less than 30 minutes a day.
✅ You don’t have to wake up inspired — you can train peace and confidence.
Watch now to upgrade your mornings and reconnect with who you really are.
👇 FREE GIFT – Get Dr. B’s book “Pain and Purpose” (Learn how to build mental strength from the inside out)
[mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
👉FREE GIFT – Get Dr. B’s book “Pain and Purpose” (Learn how to build mental strength from the inside out) mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
Are you tired of saying affirmations that don't really change how you feel?
In this powerful session, Dr. B shares healing affirmations that actually transform your mind and body — because they are built on one essential truth: you have to believe what you say.
In a world flooded with "fake it till you make it," it's time to create a deeper, authentic healing experience. These affirmations are grounded in your reality, helping you step into true mental strength, emotional resilience, and self-empowerment.
✨ In this video, you’ll discover:
Why affirmations often fail (and how to fix it)
How believing your words accelerates healing
A set of healing affirmations you can say with confidence and conviction
🧠 Ready to transform your inner world authentically? Start your journey today.
🔔 Don't forget to subscribe for more powerful tools on mental strength, resilience, and purpose-driven living.
➡️ Click link to download a free copy of Dr. B's Book: Pain and Purpose → mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
#PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
👉FREE GIFT – Get Dr. B’s book “Pain and Purpose” (Learn how to build mental strength from the inside out) mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
Feeling stuck and unmotivated? In this video, Dr. Cristi Bundukamara shares how past, present, and future thinking shape your ability to change behavior—and why releasing the past is essential for stepping into a more purposeful future.
You’ll learn:
Why external motivation often fails
How to shift into positive, future-focused thinking
The key to finding self-motivation that actually lasts
How the Mentally STRONG Method helps you align decisions with what you truly want
If you’re tired of starting over, this is where your real transformation begins.
📘 Want to go deeper? Get your free copy of Pain and Purpose → mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
🧠💪FREE E-BOOK - How to Be Mentally STRONG
https://mentallystrong.activehosted.com/f/10
BehaviorChange #SelfMotivation #MentalStrength #PurposeDriven #MindsetShift #DrB #MentallySTRONG #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
👉FREE GIFT – Get Dr. B’s book “Pain and Purpose” (Learn how to build mental strength from the inside out) mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
🧠💪FREE E-BOOK - How to Be Mentally STRONG
https://mentallystrong.activehosted.com/f/10
You’ve heard it a million times: “Just believe in yourself!”
But no one tells you how.
In this video, I’m breaking down a real-world guide to building self-belief — not through hype or empty affirmations — but through self-esteem and self-agency.
→ If you’ve ever struggled with confidence, second-guessed every decision, or felt stuck waiting to “feel ready,” this video is for you.
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about practice.
0:00:04 - The Skill of Self-Esteem
0:00:19 - Self-Esteem vs. Self-Agency
0:00:36 - My Personal Journey Through Loss
0:01:16 - What is Believing in Yourself?
0:02:30 - The Development of Self-Esteem
0:03:29 - Beyond Positive Affirmations
0:04:22 - The Uniqueness of Our Inner World
0:04:51 - If You're Still Watching...
0:05:27 - The Mentally Strong Method
0:05:58 - The Power of Self-Agency
0:06:13 - When Life Knocks You Down
0:07:46 - Self-Esteem vs. Self-Agency: A Deeper Look
0:08:14 - The Spiritual Aspect of Self-Agency
0:09:49 - Finding Your Own Words and Power
1:11:25 - Building Self-Esteem and Self-Agency Together
1:12:30 - Listener Question: Imposter Syndrome
1:14:18 - Listener Question: Pain and Confidence
1:16:08 - Listener Question: Manifestation and Bad Things Happening
1:19:22 - Sitting with Pain: Grief vs. Trauma
1:19:44 - A Reminder to Believe in Yourself
PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
👉FREE GIFT – Get Dr. B’s book “Pain and Purpose” (Learn how to build mental strength from the inside out) mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
🧠💪FREE E-BOOK - How to Be Mentally STRONG
https://mentallystrong.activehosted.com/f/10
Everyone wants to be mentally strong… but most people go about it the wrong way.
In this video, I reveal the real secret to becoming mentally strong — and it’s not about suppressing your emotions or pretending to “have it all together.” Mental strength is built through intentional thought, radical self-honesty, and the daily practice of choosing growth over avoidance.
I’ll walk you through how to:
Understand what true mental strength actually looks like
Reframe your pain into purpose
Break through the emotional patterns holding you back
Use the Mentally STRONG Method to take control of your thoughts, behaviors, and emotional reactions
This is more than mindset — this is your roadmap to long-term resilience, confidence, and clarity.
If you’re ready to stop coping and start building, this video is your first step.
👇 Drop a comment and let me know what part hit home for you — I’d love to hear your story.
MentalStrength #SelfGrowth #MentallySTRONG #EmotionalResilience #DrB #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
👉FREE GIFT – Get Dr. B’s book “Pain and Purpose” (Learn how to build mental strength from the inside out) mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
Grief Intensive
👉 http://mentallystrong.com/start-your-grief-journey/
You’re strong. You’re successful. You’ve held it together for everyone else. But if you’re honest… this isn’t the life you imagined.
In this Episode, I speak directly to the high-achieving, resilient woman who has experienced heartbreak, unexpected loss, or quiet disappointment—and is still showing up every day. You don’t need another motivational pep talk. You need purpose, clarity, and emotional strength that lasts.
✅ In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why it’s okay to grieve the life you thought you’d have
What purpose really looks like in real life (not on a vision board)
How to rebuild from a place of intention, not exhaustion
This message is for the woman who’s smart, spiritual, and silently struggling. You’re not lost. You’re being realigned.
PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
FREE GIFT – Get Dr. B’s book “Pain and Purpose” (Learn how to build mental strength from the inside out) mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
Losing a child is a crippling and unimaginable pain—one that shakes your ENTIRE world and belief system. In this Episode, I share my raw and personal journey through grief, the difference between grief and trauma, why it's important to separate the two and what truly helped me keep going after loss. If you're struggling to process your own grief or searching for a way forward, you are not alone.
You can also watch the unfiltered footage of my early days after losing my third child—where grief was at its rawest. And if you're ready for deeper support, I invite you to join my Grief Intensive course, where I walk alongside you through the hardest parts of this journey.
➡️ https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhbzZf3gqt8BzW6rJOr9cyRPtfiZ6v-LY
➡️ http://mentallystrong.com/start-your-grief-journey/
Grief is overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
👉FREE GIFT – Get Dr. B’s book “Pain and Purpose” (Learn how to build mental strength from the inside out) mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
Grief Intensive
👉 http://mentallystrong.com/start-your-grief-journey/
Feeling exhausted, sleepless, or having no appetite? This video focuses on the most common physical symptoms of grief, offering practical tips and self-care strategies to help you cope.
Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
👉FREE GIFT – Get Dr. B’s book “Pain and Purpose” (Learn how to build mental strength from the inside out) mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
Grief Intensive
👉 http://mentallystrong.com/start-your-grief-journey/
Grief isn't just emotional; it takes a physical toll. This video explores the surprising ways grief can manifest in your body, from fatigue and sleep problems to appetite changes and more. We'll discuss the mind-body connection and offer tips for coping.
PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
Grief Intensive
👉 http://mentallystrong.com/start-your-grief-journey/
If you've ever felt like pain has no purpose, like suffering is just a random part of life, I want you to know you're not alone. I've lost three children and my husband, and I know what it feels like to search for meaning in the midst of heartbreak. But I've also learned that even in the deepest pain, we can find our purpose.
In this episode, I share my story and how I found purpose after unimaginable loss. It's not about minimizing your pain, but about empowering you to find your own meaning.
👉FREE GIFT – Get Dr. B’s book “Pain and Purpose” (Learn how to build mental strength from the inside out) mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction: Finding Joy After Loss
0:32 - Grit and Resilience: My Story
02:26 - My Son Reggie: Finding Purpose in His Life and Death
05:30 - Expanding Through Brokenness
07:01 - My Son Johnny: Bringing His Sisters to Us
08:21 - My Daughter Miah: Love and Spiritual Connection
11:44 - Purpose is at the End of the Journey
13:16 - My Reason for Sharing
14:02 - Turning Your Pain into Purpose
If you're looking for hope, healing, and a path forward, I hope my story encourages you. If you'd like to learn more about my journey and how I can help you find your purpose, check out the links below.
Don't forget to subscribe for more videos on grief, loss, and finding strength in difficult times. I'd also love to hear your story in the comments – let's build a community of support and healing.
PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
You ever get that weird, anxious feeling when someone you love leaves? Maybe your partner goes on a trip, or a friend doesn’t text back fast enough, and suddenly your brain is spiraling!
What if they’re pulling away? What if I can’t handle being alone?
That’s separation anxiety, and yeah, it’s not just a kid thing. Adults deal with it too, sometimes in ways we don’t even realize.
In this podcast, we’re breaking down what separation anxiety really is, X signs you might have it, and how to start managing it so it doesn’t take over. Let’s get into it.
PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong #SeparationAnxiety #AdultAnxiety #AnxietyRelief #MentalHealth #AttachmentTheory #EmotionalWellness #CopingStrategies #MentalHealthTips #anxietymanagement
Are you wrestling with overwhelming pain and a persistent voice telling you it's your fault? In this powerful episode of The Mentally Strong Podcast, Dr. B, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who has navigated unimaginable loss, offers a deeply empathetic and practical approach to healing. She understands the pervasive self-blame that can accompany tragedy, having personally experienced the loss of three children and her husband.
Dr. B challenges the conventional narrative of grief and introduces her "Mentally Strong Method," a framework designed to help you organize the chaos of negative self-talk, process trauma, and embark on a profound spiritual journey. This isn't about simply "getting over it"; it's about acknowledging your pain, separating it from self-blame, and growing around your grief to find contentment and peace.
In this episode, you'll discover:
- Why "It's Not Your Fault" is more than just a saying: Dr. B shares her raw, personal stories of loss, illustrating how even with perceived contributions to an outcome, the ultimate responsibility for tragedy is often not yours.
- The flawed concept of the "5 Stages of Grief": Learn why this traditional model doesn't apply to complex pain and how to move beyond it.
- Understanding Trauma beyond the obvious: Discover Dr. B's definition of trauma as anything that changes your perception of reality, and how to identify and address its impact on your healing.
- The power of a spiritual journey in healing: Explore how connecting with a spiritual context can transform your experience of pain and lead to profound growth.
- Practical steps for managing negative self-talk: Learn how to rate your belief in negative thoughts and begin to gently dismantle them.
- When to seek professional help: Crucial advice for recognizing the signs that your pain is heavier than you can manage alone.
If you're ready to quiet the voice of self-blame and begin your journey toward lasting healing and contentment, this episode is a must-listen.
Topic Highlights:
- Overcoming Self-Blame in Grief
- The Mentally Strong Method
- Redefining Trauma & Its Impact
- Spiritual Healing & Loss
- Challenging Negative Self-Talk
- Beyond the 5 Stages of Grief
- Finding Peace After Profound Loss
- When to Seek Professional Support
Don't miss out on this transformative conversation. Listen now and take the first step towards deserving to heal.
🔗 Get your FREE copy of “Pain and Purpose” mentallystrong.ac-page.com/freebook
Join us for an emotional and inspiring conversation with Liana, author of "Shining Through," as she shares her journey navigating the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with a rare genetic disorder.
Liana opens up about the initial trauma and grief of receiving her daughter's diagnosis, and how she learned to balance fear with faith. She discusses the importance of redefining resiliency, finding strength in struggle, and discovering the superpower within.
This episode offers a raw and honest look at the realities of special needs parenting, including:
- Torn Between Fear and Faith: Liana shares how she grappled with her faith while facing her daughter's challenges.
- Redefining Resiliency: Discover how Liana learned to adapt and find new ways to thrive as a family.
- From Struggle to Superpower: Hear how Liana found strength in the face of adversity and emerged even stronger.
- God Must Hate You: Liana addresses the spiritual conflict and questions that arise when raising a special needs child.
- Redefining Yourself: Learn the importance of self-care and finding your own joy as a special needs parent.
Liana's story is a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and finding happiness even in the most difficult circumstances. This episode is a must-listen for any parent or caregiver seeking inspiration and hope.
Don't miss this powerful episode!
Link to book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Shining-Through.../dp/1990461743
Join us for a deeply moving conversation with grief expert Lisa Robinson, author of "Beyond Grief: A Warrior's Guide to Heal." Lisa shares her personal journey through the devastating losses of her parents, three brothers, and her first husband. She opens up about the profound impact these experiences had on her and her children, and how she found strength and resilience through holistic healing practices.
Lisa's story is a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. She offers invaluable insights into navigating the grieving process, emphasizing the importance of:
- Connecting with nature: Finding solace and healing in the natural world.
- Embracing spirituality: Exploring the spiritual dimension of grief and finding comfort in rituals and ceremonies.
- Creative expression: Utilizing writing, art, and music to process emotions and find meaning.
- Building community: Seeking support and connection with others who have experienced loss.
Lisa also discusses her unique approach to grief recovery, including the creation of legacy books, virtual ceremonies, and her "Unleashing Grief" program. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has experienced loss or wants to support others through the grieving process.
Topic Highlights:
- [00:00:47] Lisa's personal journey through grief, including the loss of three children and her husband.
- [00:03:08] The concept of traumatic grief and its impact.
- [00:07:44] Alternatives to traditional therapy for healing grief.
- [00:17:18] Connecting with nature, spirituality, ceremony, and creative projects as tools for healing.
- [00:20:03] Lisa's "Unleashing Grief" program and how it helps people navigate the grieving process.
- [00:23:24] Lisa's book, "Beyond Grief: A Warrior's Guide to Heal," and the importance of a warrior mindset in overcoming adversity.
- [00:29:13] Grief resources and support for children and families.
Human trafficking is a global epidemic, and it's happening closer to home than you might think. In this poignant episode, we delve into the realities of human trafficking with Jason and Charlotte from Bakhita Mountain Home, a safe haven for women survivors in Colorado.
Prepare to be moved as we discuss:
- The insidious nature of human trafficking: Jason and Charlotte shed light on the manipulative tactics used by traffickers, emphasizing the roles of fraud and coercion.
- The profound impact on victims: We explore the complex psychological and emotional trauma experienced by survivors, including guilt, shame, and the struggle to rebuild self-worth.
- Bakhita Mountain Home's holistic approach to healing: Discover their unique three-phase program that provides comprehensive support, from stabilization and restorative care to community reintegration.
- How you can join the fight: Learn practical steps to recognize potential signs of trafficking, report suspicious activity, and support organizations like Bakhita Mountain Home.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to:
- Understand the complexities of human trafficking.
- Learn how to identify and support potential victims.
- Get involved in making a difference in their community.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Bakhita Mountain Home: https://bakhitamountainhome.org
- National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
Ever wondered about the difference between channeling and mediumship? 🤔 Join Christy as she interviews Ingrid Turner, a psychic medium and spiritual teacher, about connecting with loved ones who have passed and tapping into your own intuition. They dive deep into the world of ghosts 👻 vs. spirits, the power of healing ✨, and how to navigate grief. Ingrid, founder of the Bhava Spiritual Mission, shares incredible stories from her work and reveals how YOU can develop your psychic potential! ✨
https://www.ingridhturner.com/
00:03:52 - Everyone is Psychic!
00:04:54 - "What about demons?!" Overcoming the fear of psychic abilities.
00:13:46 - Sensing a loved one's presence after passing.
00:29:51 - Developing your intuition: It's a playground!
00:33:13 - Learning to grieve and heal.
Have you ever wondered what happens when we die? Chris Jankulovski has been to the brink and back – multiple times. In this captivating interview, he shares his extraordinary near-death experiences and the profound impact they've had on his life.
Chris's story is one of resilience, transformation, and discovering purpose in the face of immense challenges. Diagnosed with a terminal illness at 19, he has navigated grief, fear, and uncertainty with remarkable courage and positivity.
In this episode, you'll discover:
- The nature of near-death experiences: Chris's vivid descriptions of crossing over and encountering his deceased father.
- The power of choosing life: How Chris shifted his mindset from victim to empowered individual.
- The importance of purpose: Finding meaning and motivation beyond ourselves.
This episode is perfect for:
- Anyone seeking inspiration and hope during difficult times.
- Those interested in exploring spirituality and near-death experiences.
- Individuals looking to live a more purposeful and fulfilling life.
About Chris Jankulovski:
Chris is the author of "Near Death Lessons" and a successful entrepreneur. His story is a beacon of hope and a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome. Learn more at https://neardeathlessons.com/
NearDeathExperiences #Inspiration #Motivation #OvercomingAdversity #LifeLessons #ChrisJankulovski"
Have you ever wondered how to truly embrace life's journey, even when faced with immense grief and loss?
Join us as we sit down with Mark Rollins, author of "The Evolving Man," for a raw and honest conversation about navigating life's ups and downs. Mark shares his incredible personal experiences with loss, including the passing of his parents and brother, and how these events shaped his unique perspective on grief and spirituality.
In this episode, you'll discover:
- Mark's inspiring philosophy on evolving and growing throughout life. [00:00:48]
- A powerful story about connecting with loved ones who have passed on. [00:06:38]
- The importance of vulnerability and open communication in relationships. [00:21:40]
- How to cultivate gratitude, even in the face of adversity. [00:30:48]
- Practical strategies for forgiveness and letting go of regrets. [00:27:23]
- The transformative power of human connection and embracing your life journey. [00:36:34]
Get ready to be inspired by Mark's story and gain valuable insights on how to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Tune in now and embrace the journey with us!
If you've ever felt the weight of grief, this video is for you. Amy Pickett Williams, a 25-year veteran grief therapist, courageously shares her story of loss and the incredible power of somatic healing.
It's not just talk therapy, it's about connecting with your body, breath, and spirit to find strength and peace during life's most difficult moments.
Let's come together and support each other on this journey. Watch, share, and let me know in the comments what resonates with you most. #griefsupport #somatichealing #yourenotalone
https://www.facebook.com/lightmvmt
Grief is a journey, not a destination. In this episode, Amy Pickett Williams, a seasoned grief therapist, opens up about her own experiences with loss and the profound impact of somatic healing. Learn how to harness the mind-body connection to navigate grief, find your window of tolerance, and cultivate inner strength. This episode is a source of hope and empowerment for anyone seeking to grow through life's inevitable challenges. #griefsupport #somatichealing #mentalstrength
Ever wondered how to optimize your brain for peak performance, overcome trauma, or simply find more peace?
Join us in this captivating episode as we delve into the world of neurofeedback with Raquel Younglove, a certified Advanced Trainer and Mental Health Care Provider with 20 years of experience. Raquel shares her incredible journey from rescuing wolves in the Michigan wilderness to becoming a leading expert in neurofeedback. 🐺✨
In this episode, you'll discover:
- The evolution of neurofeedback: Learn the difference between linear and non-linear approaches, and why Raquel favors the gentler, more holistic neuroptimal method.
- The power of neuroptimal neurofeedback: Discover how this technology helps your brain self-correct and optimize its functioning, leading to profound improvements in mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
- Raquel's personal transformation: Hear how neurofeedback helped Raquel overcome grief, trauma, and the challenges of being a single mom.
- Neurofeedback for children: Raquel shares the amazing story of how neurofeedback helped her son overcome significant challenges and achieve peak performance.
- Practical tips for incorporating neurofeedback into your life: Learn how to get started with neurofeedback and what to expect during sessions.
Tune in now and unlock your brain's full potential! 🎧
In this insightful episode of the Mentally Strong Podcast, Dr. B engages in a heartfelt conversation with Dr. Mike Ghali, a licensed psychologist specializing in individual, couples, and marriage counseling. Dr. Ghali opens up about his personal and professional experiences navigating grief, loss, and the challenges of maintaining mental strength.
Topic Highlights:
- Embracing Emotions, Building Resilience: Learn to accept and express your feelings, fostering emotional resilience in the face of life's challenges.
- Taking Ownership of Your Mental Well-being: Discover the power of personal responsibility in your mental health journey, moving beyond reliance on external validation.
- Communication: The Key to Strong Relationships: Gain valuable insights into effective communication within relationships, fostering understanding and connection even during difficult times.
- Navigating Grief and Loss: Hear Dr. Ghali's personal story of grief and how it shaped his therapeutic approach. Uncover strategies for coping with loss and finding moments of joy amidst sorrow.
- Discovering Your Passions, Fueling Your Soul: Explore the importance of identifying and prioritizing activities that bring you joy and contribute to your overall well-being.
Don't miss this powerful episode filled with expert advice and practical strategies for embracing life's journey and cultivating mental strength.
Guest: Dr. Mike Ghali, Licensed Psychologist and Owner of Ink Therapy
Contact Dr. Ghali:
- Website: https://www.inctherapy.org
- Phone: 719-500-1831
Remember: It's okay to not be okay. Reach out for help when you need it, and take the first step on your journey towards mental strength and emotional well-being.
In this insightful episode of "Embrace the Journey," Dr. Raquesh Jain, a psychiatrist and former oncologist, challenges the traditional reliance on medications for mental health. Drawing from his personal struggles and professional experience, Dr. Jain emphasizes the importance of holistic mental wellness.
Topic Highlights:
- The limitations of psychiatric medication: Discover how medications can aid recovery but may not lead to flourishing.
- The HERO Wellness Scale: Learn about this innovative, research-backed tool to measure and track mental well-being.
- Wildfire Wellness: Explore an accessible, 30-day program based on "Ancient Practices for Modern-Day Living."
- Men's mental health: Understand the cultural barriers preventing men from seeking help and the importance of vulnerability.
- The role of spirituality: Appreciate how spiritual health, regardless of religious affiliation, plays a vital role in mental well-being.
- Psychedelics and mental health: Get insights into the promising research on psychedelics like psilocybin, along with the importance of medical guidance.
- The patient-provider relationship: Discover how empathy, patience, and a focus on long-term growth can revolutionize mental health treatment.
Join us as we redefine mental health, moving beyond symptom management towards a journey of growth and flourishing.
Parenting is a journey full of challenges, especially when a child's mental health is involved. In this episode, we gain valuable insights from Laura Olson, owner of Pelmy Child and Family Specialists, as she shares her expertise on navigating the complexities of family systems and supporting children's mental well-being.
Topic Highlights:
- Understanding Family Systems: (01:30) Learn how a child's mental health affects the entire family dynamic and how to address the system as a whole, not just the identified patient.
- Trauma and Its Ripple Effects: (02:40) Explore the various forms of trauma and their impact on children, siblings, and parents, including the unique challenges faced by adoptive families.
- The Power of Attachment: (16:50) Discover the critical role of attachment in child development and its connection to self-regulation, self-worth, and healthy relationships.
- Navigating Manipulation and Setting Boundaries: (07:00) Learn effective strategies for addressing manipulative behaviors while prioritizing mental health concerns and fostering a safe and supportive environment.
- The Importance of Connection and Influence: (19:30) Understand that parenting is more about influence than control and how building strong relationships can empower children to make healthy choices.
- Parenting with Grace: (04:10) Embrace the learning process of parenting and find solace in the fact that you're not alone in this journey.
Whether you're a parent seeking guidance or a professional working with families, this episode offers invaluable insights and tools for supporting child mental health and strengthening the family unit.
Visit Palame's website or contact them directly for information on their services, including individual, group, and family therapy, in-home services, parenting classes, and more.
Jason shares heart-wrenching stories that underscore the profound impact of loneliness on seniors and reveals how Silver Key's innovative programs combat this silent epidemic. From companionship and affordable housing to fostering connections with the community, discover how Silver Key empowers older adults to find hope, resilience, and purpose in their golden years.
This conversation also delves into the importance of end-of-life planning and open discussions about grief and death. Jason's personal experiences with loss offer a touching reminder that connection and compassion are crucial at every stage of life.
Tune in to discover:
- The hidden mental health crisis facing seniors
- How Silver Key is transforming the lives of older adults in Colorado Springs
- Practical strategies for supporting seniors in your community
- The power of embracing life's final chapter with dignity and purpose
Don't miss this powerful episode! Subscribe now and share with loved ones. Together, we can build a stronger, more compassionate community for everyone.
Ready to explore the fascinating intersection of mental health and physical well-being? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Ryan Shroyer of Holisticare Bodyworks, a massage therapist with a passion for energy work. Ryan shares his journey from feeling lost and depressed to discovering the power of healing through modalities like Reiki and CranioSacral Therapy.
- [01:25] Discover how trauma, grief, and emotions can become trapped in the body, leading to physical pain and tension.
- [06:39] Ryan reveals the science behind energy work, highlighting the interconnectedness of our physical, emotional, and spiritual selves.
- [13:11] Gain practical insights into how you can tap into your own energy centers, unlock healing, and experience greater balance in your life.
- [20:04] This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the profound impact of energy work on mental health.
Key Takeaways:
- The profound influence of the mind-body connection on overall well-being
- How trauma and emotions can manifest as physical pain and tension
- Understanding the science behind energy work and its impact on healing
- Practical tips for tapping into your own energy centers and unlocking healing
- The importance of finding support and resources on your mental health journey
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from an expert in energy work and gain a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection. Subscribe now and share this episode with anyone seeking a holistic approach to mental health.
Grief is often described as the final act of love, a beautiful sentiment that resonates with many. But what if grief isn't just love, but also pain, anger, confusion, and a host of other emotions? In this deeply personal episode, Dr. B, a mother who has experienced the profound loss of multiple children and her husband, explores the complexities of grief.
Timestamps:
- 00:00 - 02:00: Introduction – The poetic phrase "grief is the final act of love" and the reality of grief as a multifaceted experience.
- 02:00 - 05:00: Personal Story – Dr.B's journey through multiple losses, and the different ways grief has manifested in each situation.
- 05:00 - 08:00: The Dangers of Quantifying Grief – How comparing losses and pain can hinder healing.
- 08:00 - 12:00: The Individual Nature of Grief – How personality, life stage, relationship dynamics, and love all influence the grieving process.
- 12:00 - 15:00: Unpacking the Entanglement of Grief with Other Struggles – Addressing negative self-talk, anxiety, and spiritual conflict.
- 15:00 - 18:00: The Importance of Processing Grief and Finding Joy – How to move forward, embrace joy, and find purpose without denying the reality of grief.
- 18:00 - 20:00: Grief Resources and Support – Dr. B offers guidance and resources for those navigating their grief journeys.
Join us for a deeply moving and insightful conversation with Dr. Alina Garbuz, a trauma specialist and researcher with a unique perspective on grief and healing.
In this episode, Dr. Garbuz shares her personal and professional journey through the complex landscapes of grief and trauma, particularly around suicide loss. Drawing from her spiritual experiences and expertise in EMDR therapy, she offers a fresh perspective on:
- The Intersection of Spirituality and Mental Health: Discover how embracing the spiritual can enhance healing and provide comfort in the face of immense loss.
- Reframing Trauma: Learn how to differentiate between trauma and stress, and explore tools for building resilience in the face of life's challenges.
- The Power of Self-Love and Responsibility: Gain insights on how self-love, boundaries, and making good choices can lead to personal growth and healthier relationships.
- The Role of Playfulness in Healing: Explore how embracing childlike joy and wonder can help us navigate difficult experiences.
- Intensive Therapy as a Catalyst for Change: Understand the benefits of deep, focused work for transforming your relationship with grief and trauma.
Whether you've experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide or are simply seeking guidance on navigating life's inevitable hardships, this episode offers a message of hope, resilience, and the power of choosing love over fear.
In this raw and candid episode of Dr. B's YouTube series, Dr. B sits down with Donna Carlson, an executive and author, to dive deep into the complexities of self-worth, professional challenges, and personal growth. Donna opens up about her journey of self-discovery, from grappling with feelings of inadequacy rooted in childhood experiences to navigating the pressures of leadership roles as a CEO. Together, they explore themes of self-esteem, fear of failure, and the importance of seeking support and acceptance in both personal and professional spheres. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, Dr. B and Donna offer valuable insights and reflections on embracing one's journey, finding resilience, and fostering meaningful connections. Tune in for a profound and enlightening discussion on the realities of life, leadership, and self-discovery.
#Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
FREE CHOICE OPPORTUNITY DOWNLOAD: Feelings Log
https://mailchi.mp/mentallystrong/feelingslog
In this insightful episode of "Understanding and Conquering Depression," Dr. B shares invaluable guidance for navigating the complexities of depression. Emphasizing the personalized nature of this condition, Dr. B explores the biochemical, psychosocial, and learned behavioral aspects of depression, offering practical advice for healing.
From distinguishing between depressed mood and major depressive disorder to addressing biochemical imbalances and adopting cognitive-behavioral strategies, Dr. B provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and conquering depression. With compassion and expertise, she empowers viewers to take control of their mental health journey and find hope in resilience.
Subscribe now to gain valuable insights from Dr. B and embark on a transformative journey towards understanding and conquering depression.
empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
FREE Choice Opportunity Worksheet Download: Evaluate Triggers
https://mailchi.mp/fe589fc1af88/hh60s65nqp
Drawing from personal experiences of grief, trauma, and injustice, Dr.B shares compelling insights into how triggers can affect individuals differently. By categorizing triggers based on their origins, such as grief, trauma, negative self-talk, anxiety, and behaviors, individuals can gain a better understanding of their emotional responses.
Throughout the video, three key strategies are highlighted to help viewers navigate their triggers effectively:
Embrace the Journey of Mental Strength: Understand that mental strength is a lifelong journey that requires continuous evaluation and growth.
Gain Insight into Your Triggers: Take the time to understand why certain triggers elicit specific emotional responses, allowing for greater self-awareness and control.
Desensitize Your Reactions: Over time, work towards desensitizing your reactions to triggers by acknowledging them and actively managing your responses.
While the journey of evaluating triggers may initially provoke anxiety for some, additional resources are provided to help individuals manage their mental health effectively.
#SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
In this profoundly moving episode of "Heartstrings & Healing," Dr. B sits down with Suzanne, a woman navigating the complex waves of grief after the loss of her beloved mother. Set against the backdrop of her mother's final days in an English hospital, Suzanne shares a raw, intimate narrative of love, loss, and the tangled emotions that accompany saying goodbye to someone who is the center of your world.
From the shores of anger over unresolved conversations to the bittersweet realization of how much her daily routines were intertwined with her mother's presence, Suzanne's story is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability. Dr. B expertly guides us through Suzanne's emotional landscape, uncovering layers of unresolved feelings around not just her mother's passing but also the challenges of raising a child with special needs. This episode doesn't shy away from the hard questions about what it means to be heard, the struggle for justice, and the pursuit of understanding in a world that often turns a deaf ear.
GriefJourney #Understanding #BeingHeard #SpecialNeedsAdvocacy #HeartstringsAndHealing
🔗🧠💪FREE E-BOOK - How to Be Mentally STRONG
https://mailchi.mp/mentallystrong/howtobementallystrong
Join Dr. B, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and grief expert, as she shares her personal journey and professional insights into the complex world of grief, hospice care, and the heart-wrenching experience of losing a spouse.
👨⚕️ From Expertise to Personal Journey: Dr. B combines her professional knowledge with her own profound experiences of loss, offering a unique perspective on navigating grief.
🌿 Exploring Dialectical Thinking in Grief: Delve into the concept of dialectical thinking and how it can help manage the whirlwind of emotions experienced during the loss of a loved one, especially under the shadow of a degenerative disorder.
👪 A Personal Story of Love and Loss: With openness and vulnerability, Dr. B discusses her 26-year marriage, the upbringing of their seven children, and the anticipatory grief she faces, all while wrestling with feelings of love, guilt, and the desire for closure.
🧠 Psychological Insights into Grief: Learn how dialectical thinking serves as a mature approach to dealing with grief, allowing for the coexistence of seemingly opposite truths and leading to a state of peace amidst the chaos of loss.
💖 Empowering Guidance for the Grieving: Dr. B shares three critical pieces of advice for anyone navigating the stormy seas of grief: the importance of acknowledging and integrating conflicting emotions, the maturity in recognizing that opposing feelings can coexist, and the necessity of self-compassion and grace throughout the grieving process.
🌈 A Message of Strength and Resilience: Through her story, Dr. B aims to empower others to face their grief with courage, find strength in vulnerability, and ultimately discover a path to joy and resilience despite the depths of despair.
Subscribe for more heartfelt insights and guidance from Dr. B, as she continues to share her journey of healing and helping others find their way through grief. Remember, while no one can rescue you from the pain of loss, you have the inner strength to navigate through it. You are not alone.
Grief #HospiceCare #DialecticalThinking #ExpertInGrief #MentalHealth #Healing #EmotionalWellness #Resilience #PersonalJourney #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
Dr. Faust Ruggiero : https://www.faustruggiero.com/
🧠💪FREE E-BOOK - How to Be Mentally STRONG
https://mailchi.mp/mentallystrong/howtobementallystrong
Have you ever wondered what drives someone to dedicate their life to empowering others? Join Dr. B, your host, and guide on the path to self-discovery, as she sits down with the inspiring Dr. Faust Ruggiero, a leading figure in the world of psychology.
In this captivating episode, Dr. Faust unveils his powerful mission to equip individuals with the tools they need to take charge of their mental well-being and unlock their true potential. Through his groundbreaking work and impactful books, Dr. Faust has ignited a fire of transformation in countless lives.
This enlightening conversation explores:
The driving force behind Faust's mission to empower others
How to overcome adversity and cultivate resilience in the face of challenges
The importance of self-reflection, mindfulness, and conscious living
Practical tools and strategies for navigating the complexities of modern life
Whether you're seeking guidance on your own journey of self-discovery or simply intrigued by Dr. Faust Ruggiero's remarkable mission, this episode is a must-watch! Prepare to be inspired, uplifted, and ignited with the spark of transformation. ⚡️
personaldevelopment #mentalwellness #selfdiscovery #empowerment #wellbeing #FaustRuggiero #DrB #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
re you tired of feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Dr. B shares practical strategies to declutter your mind, navigate emotional extremes, and transform your thinking into organized, empowering choices. Drawing from her own journey of overcoming grief and trauma, Dr. B provides valuable insights to help you embark on a lifelong path towards mental resilience. Don't miss this transformative episode – learn to harness the power of an organized mind and confidently declare, "I am mentally strong." Watch now and embark on your journey to mental clarity and strength!
#SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
Join us for a powerful and inspiring conversation with Kelli Reinhardt, founder of BCC Evolution, a nonprofit dedicated to mental health and suicide awareness. In this interview with Dr. B, Kelli shares her deeply personal journey of loss and grief after her sister's tragic suicide, and how she transformed her pain into a purposeful mission to help others.
Discover Kelli's insights on the importance of mental health education, destigmatization, and community support in preventing suicide and supporting those in crisis. Learn about practical resources and actionable tips for navigating mental health challenges and supporting loved ones through difficult times.
Through vulnerability and resilience, Kelli's story reminds us that healing is possible, and no one has to face mental health struggles alone. Join us as we embrace the journey of hope, connection, and empowerment in the fight against suicide and mental illness.
https://www.bccevolution.org/
Need immediate support?
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Dial or text: 988 in the U.S.A. or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Safe 2 Tell Colorado 1-877-542-7233
Crisis Text Line "HOME" to 741-741
According to the CDC:
1 in 5 adults experience a mental illness in a given year.
1 in 25 Americans lives with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression.
Suicide as cause of death in Colorado was #1 for ages 10-14 and #2 for ages 15-44 in 2019.
According to the Colorado Health Institute:
1 in 10 people in Colorado did not receive proper health care in 2019.
Less than 1/3 of Coloradans who were diagnosed with a mental disorder (anxiety, depression, etc.) and who committed suicide received mental health care.
42% of Colorado youth (LGBTQIA) considered suicide in 2019 verses 13.4% of heterosexual youth.
Systemic Racism in Healthcare is a real issue nationally and in Colorado.
5 in 5 of us have mental health.
And almost everyone in the world has experience with someone that has attempted or completed suicide. Or has personally, or known someone who has lived with or struggled with a mental health challenge.
It is time to break the silence and stigma around talking about mental health and bring light to the epidemic of suicide. This world is in a mental health crisis, it is a global issue. More people now than ever are suffering, struggling, experiencing or living with a mental health challenge.
BCC Evolution was designed for those that want to get educated about mental health and suicide for more understanding and have the capability to help others when in need. Also a place to see the faces, names and stories of those that are ready to speak up and honor the lives of those lost or honor themselves for the journey they have survived. Everything we do is education based.
SuicidePrevention #MentalHealthMatters #Hope #Healing #EndTheStigma #Support #Community #Empowerment #BCCevolution #DrBInterview
SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
With remarkable vulnerability, Dr. B shares their journey towards healing, introducing the concept of "controlled grief" as a method of actively engaging with one's pain in a constructive manner. They offer insights into somatic practices and movement as transformative tools for releasing emotional burdens stored in the body.
As the episode unfolds, viewers are invited to witness Dr. B's journey of self-discovery and resilience in the face of unimaginable loss. Their message resonates with universal truths about the human experience of grief, offering hope and inspiration to those navigating their own journey of healing.
This powerful episode serves as a poignant reminder that grief is an integral part of the human experience and that by confronting it with courage and compassion, we can find strength, healing, and ultimately, a renewed sense of purpose.
Join Dr. B, as she delves into the complexities of inattention in her latest YouTube episode. In this insightful discussion, Dr. B addresses a concerning trend in clinical practice where individuals self-diagnose attention deficit disorder (ADD) or ADHD based on online assessments and seek stimulant medication treatment.
Through personal anecdotes and professional expertise, Dr. B uncovers the multifaceted nature of inattention, exploring its various underlying causes beyond the scope of ADD or ADHD. From depression to anxiety, she sheds light on how these mood disorders can significantly impact attention and executive function.
Drawing from neurobiology and neuroscience, Dr. B elucidates the role of the prefrontal cortex in attention and impulse control, providing a deeper understanding of the brain mechanisms involved. She emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach to treatment, including proper diagnosis, consideration of various treatment options, and active participation in training the brain to improve attention.
Moreover, Dr. B offers practical insights into managing expectations and navigating the complexities of treatment outcomes. Her holistic approach encourages viewers to take the time to understand the root causes of their inattention, learn to train their brain, and make informed decisions about medication use.
Whether you're struggling with inattention yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode provides invaluable insights and actionable strategies for cultivating mental strength and resilience. Subscribe to Dr. Cristi Bundukamara's channel for more empowering content on mental health and self-development. Let's embark on this journey to become mentally strong together.
Delve into Colonel Bob's remarkable journey spanning nearly 30 years of military service. From his commissioning during the Reagan era to deployments in various challenging environments, Colonel Bob shares insights into the values, camaraderie, and resilience that define the military experience.
In this episode, Colonel Bob opens up about the evolution of the military's approach to mental health and the importance of holistic care for service members. He discusses the impact of deployments on mental well-being and emphasizes the role of faith and spirituality in coping with adversity.
Discover Colonel Bob's perspective on post-traumatic stress and the need for personalized healing strategies, including peer counseling, alternative therapies, and medication when necessary. Through his own experiences and observations, Colonel Bob highlights the diverse paths to mental strength and emphasizes the importance of supporting veterans' mental health.
Don't miss this insightful discussion on military service, resilience, and the journey to mental well-being, featuring the wisdom and perspective of Colonel Bob. Subscribe now and join us on the journey of embracing mental health and honoring our veterans.
#SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
In this captivating conversation, Dr. B and Jen Musa of Fox21 Colorado Springs Loving Living Local explore the profound impact of mindfulness on our mental well-being, personal growth, and overall quality of life. From practical tips to profound insights, they uncover the secrets to harnessing the power of mindfulness in today's fast-paced world.
🎙️ Join us as we delve into:
The science behind mindfulness and its incredible benefits
Practical techniques to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine
Overcoming common challenges and misconceptions about mindfulness
Real-life success stories and testimonials of individuals transformed by mindfulness practices
Whether you're a seasoned mindfulness practitioner or just starting your journey to inner peace, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice for anyone seeking to enhance their mental clarity, emotional resilience, and overall happiness.
Don't miss out on this empowering discussion! Hit the play button now and embark on a journey towards greater mindfulness and well-being. ✨
Join Dr. B as she uncovers the hidden patterns of negative thinking and responses that often hinder our growth and achievement.
Through relatable anecdotes and practical advice, Dr. B explores the profound impact of childhood experiences, trauma, and grief on our mental strength. She reveals how these internal barriers can shape our self-perception and decision-making, ultimately influencing our overall well-being.
Discover the transformative power of thought mapping as Dr. B guides you through the process of uncovering unconscious patterns and making informed choices aligned with your goals. Learn how to navigate through negative energy, overcome rumination, and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity.
Whether you're an entrepreneur, business professional, or simply someone striving for personal growth, this episode offers invaluable insights and actionable strategies to help you break free from internal barriers and unlock your full potential.
Don't miss out on Dr. B's wealth of knowledge and practical tips. Subscribe to her channel, like, and share this episode with anyone who could benefit from mastering the art of mental strength. Let's embark on this journey together towards a happier, healthier, and more successful life.
#SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
In this insightful conversation, leadership expert Rebecca shares her journey and expertise in fostering a positive workplace culture. With over 13 years of experience in leadership roles, Rebecca delves into the importance of creating an environment where employees love coming to work every day.
From her personal experiences as a single parent navigating career challenges to her professional journey in leadership, Rebecca offers valuable insights into the intersection of workplace culture and mental health. She discusses the impact of trauma, the role of leadership in creating psychological safety, and practical strategies for promoting employee well-being.
Drawing on research and real-world examples, Rebecca sheds light on the detrimental effects of a command and control mindset in organizations and emphasizes the importance of adopting a coaching approach. She highlights the concept of VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) and its implications for employee mental health and productivity in today's rapidly changing world.
This conversation is a must-watch for leaders, HR professionals, and anyone interested in creating a supportive and resilient workplace culture. Join us as we explore actionable insights and best practices for fostering a positive work environment where employees thrive. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from a seasoned expert in leadership and workplace culture.
WorkplaceCulture #Leadership #EmployeeWellbeing #MentalHealth #PositiveWorkEnvironment #Resilience #CoachingMindset #VUCA #PsychologicalSafety #EmployeeEngagement
#SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
Join us as Dr. B delves into the heart of the matter, exploring why so many of us grapple with feelings of inadequacy and "not being good enough." Drawing from her extensive experience and personal anecdotes, she sheds light on the origins of these beliefs, often stemming from childhood experiences and societal norms.
In this thought-provoking discussion, Dr. B offers invaluable insights into understanding and embracing our true selves. Learn practical strategies for cultivating self-awareness, recognizing your strengths, and nurturing self-love.
Don't miss out on this eye-opening episode that promises to empower you to break free from negative self-talk and embrace your core connection. Subscribe now and join us on the journey to mental strength and self-discovery with Dr. B!
#SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
🌟 Join us for a candid and insightful conversation as we delve into the intricacies of the Mentally Strong Method. In this video, we explore the powerful process of identifying and organizing thoughts and emotions, with a particular focus on trauma and mental health.
👥 In this engaging discussion, we touch on various aspects, including childhood traumas, negative thought patterns, anxieties, and the impact of addiction. Heather opens up about her own challenges, highlighting the significance of separating and addressing these elements for effective processing and release.
💡 Learn valuable insights into the core connections that shape our self-perception and how to work towards positive affirmations. The conversation also touches on the intersection of spiritual conflict and mental health, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of our spiritual journey.
🌈 As we follow Heather's journey, we discuss practical strategies for dealing with trauma and fostering a strong mental health foundation. From trauma-informed yoga to gratitude practices, discover actionable steps towards healing.
🚀 Whether you're on your own mental health journey or aspiring to help others, this video provides valuable insights into the Mentally Strong Method. Gain a deeper understanding of the process, learn practical techniques, and find inspiration for your own path towards mental strength.
🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on our upcoming videos. Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know if you'd like more content on mental health, resilience, and personal growth.
MentalHealth #TraumaRecovery #MentallyStrongMethod #Resilience #SelfCare #HealingJourney #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
🧠 Ever wondered why behavioral change feels like such a complex puzzle? I'll break it down for you, shedding light on the neurobiological intricacies and the role of grace in this transformative process. It's about more than just positive thinking—it's about understanding the intricate dance of habits and emotions. 🌈
👁️🗨 Walk with me through the corridors of my own experiences as I share the difference between negative thoughts and core connections. Let's unravel those emotional imprints that shape our very essence, navigating the challenges of self-discovery and growth. Get ready for a candid and insightful conversation. 🤯🌌
🌿 Embark on my personal journey towards gut health, where I'll guide you through handling triggers and sifting through conflicting advice. Learn the art of discernment and find the sweet spot between self-help information and personal alignment. 🤔🔍
🎯 Crafting a personal vision is the compass to successful behavioral change. Together, we'll align your aspirations with your actions, steering away from societal pressures and embracing your unique path. No more generic resolutions—let's create a vision that truly resonates with you. 🚀🔮
🔑 Uncover the three foundational principles for effective behavioral change. I'll show you how to define your personal vision, manage expectations realistically, and most importantly, extend grace to yourself throughout the journey. As your companion on this path, my insights are rooted in both professional expertise and personal trials. 🌟💖
🔔 Ready to unlock your mental strength? Subscribe, follow, and explore the plethora of content on my YouTube channel. Let's embark on this empowering journey together, understanding the intricate tapestry of human complexity behind behavioral change. 🌐✨
👉 Click into the video now and let's kickstart your transformative journey! #BehavioralChange #MentalStrength #PersonalDevelopment #GraceInJourney
Join us for an eye-opening and inspiring discussion with Dane Crampton, a licensed psychologist and co-founder of Status Code Four, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting first responders and their families. 🚑👩⚕️🚒
Dane, a retired paramedic with 25 years of experience, shares his personal journey from the frontlines of emergency response to becoming a licensed psychologist. Alongside his wife Anne, they've created a game-changing nonprofit in Colorado, providing counseling, financial coaching, and relationship support tailored specifically for the unique challenges faced by first responders.
Discover the importance of breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health in the first responder community and the transformative impact of seeking help. 🤝💚
Learn about their innovative programs, including a support group for first responders, couples counseling, and a powerful film series capturing the voices of kids in first responder families. 🎬👨👩👧👦
Mark your calendars for their annual golf tournament in May, a fantastic opportunity to support this vital cause and raise awareness. ⛳🏌️♂️
Whether you're a first responder, a family member, or simply passionate about mental health advocacy, this conversation will leave you inspired and informed. 💙✨
🔗 Check out Status Code Four's website: https://www.sc4i.org/
👉 Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share to spread the word about mental health awareness among our heroes! 🌐👥
Together, let's break the silence and create a supportive community for those who dedicate their lives to keeping us safe. 🙌🚨 #StatusCodeFour #MentalHealthMatters #FirstRespondersStrong
emotionalwellbeing #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
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Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Kathy Sparnins grief specialist who shares her personal experiences, insights, and wisdom on navigating the complex terrain of grief.
- Personal Grief Journey:
- Kathy takes us on her own personal grief journey, highlighting pivotal losses that have shaped her unique approach to supporting others through the grieving process.
- Supporting Each Other:
- Delve into the importance of understanding diverse grief processes and discover how supporting one another during times of loss can be a transformative and healing experience.
- Grief Documentary:
- Explore a powerful documentary that sheds light on the varied ways individuals cope with loss. Featuring interviews with notable figures in the grief realm, this documentary offers poignant insights into the universal nature of grief.
- National Resources:
- Learn about national resources and support groups dedicated to helping individuals cope with grief. From hospice organizations to virtual programs, discover valuable collaborations that assist during challenging times.
- Grief Education:
- Gain insights into the significance of grief education, the role of grief groups, and how cultural perceptions of grief can impact our ability to process and heal from loss.
- The Alchemy of Grief:
- Explore the metaphor of the alchemy of grief, discussing the transformative power that arises when we allow ourselves to move through the pain and find hope within.
- Finding Meaning:
- Discover the importance of finding meaning in life after loss. Explore various ways individuals can honor their grief journey while cherishing the memories of their loved ones.
Connect with Voices of Grief Center:
- Website: Voices of Grief Center
In this compassionate and enlightening episode, we invite you to join us in exploring the depths of grief, understanding its nuances, and embracing the path to healing. Remember, you are not alone in your grief journey.
Share this Episode:
If you resonate with this episode, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and inspiration in these stories. Together, let's raise awareness about grief and the power of healing.
In this emotionally charged episode of "Mentally Strong," we sit down with Christina Starkey, a grieving mother who shares her harrowing experience navigating the mental health care system while seeking help for her daughter. Join us as she recounts the heartbreaking day that changed her life forever and fueled her determination to advocate for better mental health care.
Christina sheds light on the challenges she faced dealing with unprofessional healthcare providers, insurance constraints, and the gaps in knowledge that compounded her daughter's struggles with severe depression. Her story is a powerful testament to the urgent need for improved mental health awareness and accessible, compassionate care.
As a guest of Dr. B, Christina reveals the raw emotions and frustrations she encountered, both as a mother in crisis and as someone determined to make a difference in the mental health care system. Her journey led her to pursue a career as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, bridging the gap between firsthand patient experience and professional expertise.
Join us for this insightful episode as Christina discusses her role as a patient in the mental health system and her commitment to advocating for change. The pain of losing her daughter to suicide catalyzes fostering understanding, compassion, and reform within the mental health care landscape.
If you've experienced similar struggles or if you're passionate about mental health advocacy, share your thoughts in the comments below. Together, let's raise awareness, break the stigma, and work towards a more compassionate and effective mental health care system.
Join us as we embark on a mental health journey like no other. The mentally strong medical model is not your typical counseling experience; it's a transformative, educational adventure designed to empower you to master your mental well-being.
[01:20] - What Sets Us Apart:
In the mentally strong medical model, we embrace a psychoeducational counseling approach. It's not just a session; it's a class tailored just for you. Unlicensed counselors guide you through the mentally strong method, complete with homework and worksheets. Get ready to learn how to champion your mental health.
[03:45] - Personalized Care:
Your journey is uniquely yours. We're here to guide you, not just through mental health, but to treat mental illness with the care it deserves. Every encounter includes a visit from a psychiatric nurse practitioner for a full assessment, diagnosis, and treatment options. Yes, that includes medication management.
[06:12] - Beyond Traditional Therapies:
Ever heard of ketamine treatment and neurofeedback? We've got them covered. We're breaking new ground with innovative therapies that go beyond the norm. Our model isn't about traditional talk therapy on-site, but we're connected. Specialty therapy referrals ensure you get precisely what you need.
[08:30] - The Mentally Strong Challenge:
Different is good, and we challenge you to embrace the mentally strong medical model. It's not just about feeling better; it's about becoming mentally strong. Your journey, life, mental health – it's time to take control.
[10:15] - Closing Thoughts:
Thank you for joining us on this exploration of mental strength. The mentally strong medical model is changing the game, and we invite you to participate. Stay tuned for more empowering discussions on mental health. Remember, you have the strength to thrive.
Embark on a transformative journey with me, Dr. B, as I delve into holistic healing with therapist and coach Rachel Stiff. Explore the power of a systemic approach, the "both-and" mindset, and the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Join me in uncovering Rachel's inspiring story, her passion for growth, and her vision to impact lives through writing and speaking. Let's embrace the adventure of continuous mental and personal growth together.
Exploring Trauma Across Contexts:
- Dr. B opens up about her extensive journey, navigating the intricate landscapes of trauma. From working with abused teens in the foster care system to engaging with at-risk youth involved in gangs, her experiences span the spectrum of human resilience and vulnerability. She emphasizes the prevalence of both subtle "little 't'" traumas and life-altering "big 'T'" traumas that individuals encounter.
- Dr. B unveils her individualized approach to trauma therapy, stressing the paramount importance of establishing a strong therapeutic rapport. She shares her unique practice of summarizing each session on the board, allowing clients to focus on progress and growth. The metaphor of wearing a zipped hoodie resonates as she advocates for the creation of rituals at the session's commencement and conclusion.
- The journey through trauma involves understanding its impact on every facet of our being – mind, body, spirit, emotions, and actions. Dr. B introduces the concept of the "critter brain" as she explains the fight/flight/freeze response, offering a less intimidating perspective. Through story pauses and grounding exercises, clients learn to confront triggers, identify ingrained beliefs, and release emotions.
- Dr. B unfolds the intricate layers of the healing process, likening it to a continuum. She illuminates the brain's role in trauma, from the reptilian survival "lizard" brain stem to the emotional limbic system and the analytical neocortex. Identifying wounds, grieving, and challenging cognitive distortions are pivotal steps in the transformational journey.
- Central to Dr. B's approach is the concept of "SELT" – Surviving/Existing/Living/Thriving. She underscores the importance of a non-negotiable and realistic plan tailored to an individual's life season. Addressing mind, body, spirit, and emotions, she advocates for small, meaningful changes that pave the way for significant transformations. Dr. B emphasizes that self-nourishment is not merely self-care but a holistic investment that ripples positively into overall health and relationships.
Check Out Rachel Stiff:
- Online
- other
In this heartfelt episode, Dr. B delves into the profound journey of coping with intense grief and trauma. Dr. B shares personal experiences and challenges the notion of external rescues, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and self-love in the healing process.
Key Points:
- The Illusion of External Rescue:
- Reflecting on societal influences, Dr. B discusses the pervasive idea that someone or something should rescue us from pain.
- Examining the impact of movies and cultural narratives that often portray a hero rescuing individuals from difficult situations.
- The Spiritual Conflict:
- Dr. B candidly explores the spiritual conflict that arises when faced with profound grief and trauma.
- Discussing the struggle with the belief that a higher power, in this case, God, should intervene and alleviate the pain.
- Separating Trauma and Grief:
- Sharing personal experiences of losing a child and the dual challenge of coping with both grief and trauma.
- Highlighting the need to differentiate between grief, a natural emotional response, and trauma, which requires a deliberate effort to let go.
- No One Can Rescue You:
- Acknowledging the support of the community and the importance of accepting and appreciating external help.
- Emphasizing the core message: true healing comes from within, and no one else can rescue an individual from their pain.
- Tips for Self-Rescue:
- Encouraging listeners to engage in introspection by writing down their stories and becoming comfortable with their narratives.
- Offering three essential tips for self-rescue: knowing oneself, liking oneself, and ultimately growing to love oneself.
- The Five Selves Series:
- Directing listeners to explore Dr. B's series on the "Five Selves," which provides a comprehensive guide to self-care, self-regulation, spiritual well-being, continual self-improvement, and the importance of physical movement.
- Closing Thoughts:
- Expressing gratitude for the support system while recognizing its limitations in fully rescuing from pain.
- Encouraging viewers to embark on their personal journey of self-discovery and healing.
Have you ever felt lost in a maze of past hurts, anger, and grief?
This video explores the powerful story of Tara navigating exactly that. It's a journey of facing shadows and finding light, of learning to forgive and embrace self-compassion.
Key Takeaways:
- Aspiring to kindness and trust, despite past wounds.
- Unraveling the impact of family dynamics on self-worth.
- Managing anger and resentment towards those who hurt you.
- Grieving the loss of loved ones and unfulfilled potential.
- Overcoming addiction and mental health challenges.
- Building new connections and seeking forgiveness.
- Recognizing the power of personal growth and setting goals.
This video is not just a story, it's a conversation starter. It invites you to reflect on your own journey and explore themes like:
- The lasting impact of childhood experiences.
- Healthy ways to navigate anger and resentment.
- Expressing and processing grief and loss.
- The importance of self-compassion and forgiveness.
Remember, you're not alone. This episode offers support and encouragement, reminding you that healing and growth are possible. ✨
healingjourney #griefandloss #selfdiscovery #personalgrowth #forgiveness #compassion #support #community #hope
❤️FREE Choice Opportunity Worksheet Download: Controlled Grief
https://mailchi.mp/4740a1224b89/wiqfh8h3ff
Join us in this emotional and insightful episode as Dr. B, candidly shares her journey through anticipatory grief. From decoding the complexities of grief to offering practical coping strategies, Dr. B's warm and relatable approach provides comfort and guidance for anyone facing tough times.
🎙️ Episode Highlights:
Understanding Anticipatory Grief:
Dr. B breaks down the concept, making it accessible for everyone dealing with the impending loss of a loved one.
Embracing Change and Finding Acceptance:
Explore the stages of grief through Dr. B's personal stories and learn how acceptance can be a powerful tool in navigating difficult times.
Cherishing Every Moment:
Practical tips on creating lasting memories and finding joy in small moments, even during challenging circumstances.
Your Unique Grief Story:
Dr. B encourages viewers to embrace their unique grief stories, assuring them that it's okay to navigate this journey at their own pace.
Practical Coping Strategies:
Actionable coping strategies and a resource link to an "Acknowledging Grief" worksheet for processing emotions and finding resilience.
Grief as a Shared Experience:
Dr. B discusses the universal nature of grief, offering insights into finding strength and joy amidst pain.
SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
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👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss and more...
❤️www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
👉 Stay Up To Date on our Mission: Join our mailing list!
❤️ http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
👉Help me turn my pain into purpose: Follow my public grief journey
❤️ www.mentallystrong.com/grief
👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
➔ Check Out These Popular Videos
► Three Things to Help With Grieving the Loss of a Child
https://youtu.be/w4G1PZbImHE
► How to Handle GRIEF and GUILT
https://youtu.be/a6FXWSTR2jY
🌟 Join Dr. B in a compelling interview with Nathan Klotz, a dedicated mental health professional with a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. In this insightful conversation, Nathan delves into his passion for specializing in trauma, substance use disorder, and personality disorders within Cluster B.
🔍 Nathan shares his personal journey, highlighting his own experiences with addiction and the transformative "AHA moment" that led him to pursue a career in therapy. From navigating the complexities of addiction to his profound healing, Nathan's story resonates with authenticity.
🎙️ Gain valuable insights as Nathan discusses the most beneficial aspects of his healing journey and offers advice to those who may be recognizing the need for change in their lives. Learn about his approach to trauma treatment, including the use of EMDR and other therapeutic modalities, shedding light on the nuanced process of healing from complex trauma.
🌈 Discover Nathan's vision for his practice, aimed at making a positive impact on the Colorado Springs community. From substance use disorder to PTSD, Nathan's commitment to awareness and mental health support shines through.
👥 Whether you're seeking guidance, interested in mental health professions, or simply passionate about breaking the stigma around addiction and trauma, this interview provides valuable insights and inspiration.
In this heartfelt episode, we explore the intricacies of supporting grieving mothers with compassion and sensitivity. Dr. B navigates the challenging terrain of conversations surrounding loss and grief, offering valuable insights on what to say and, perhaps more importantly, what to avoid.
Supporting a grieving mother requires sensitivity and thoughtfulness. By reframing questions and responses, we can create a space that allows for meaningful conversations, fostering healing and understanding.
- Avoid Asking "What Happened?"
When engaging with a grieving mother, resist the impulse to inquire about the details of the child's death. Asking "What happened?" can be perceived as selfish, fueled by curiosity rather than genuine concern.
Instead, focus on the positive aspects of the child's life by asking, "Tell me about your child." Encourage the mother to share memories, preferences, and the child's unique personality, shifting the conversation towards celebration rather than the circumstances of their passing.
2. Skip the Generic "How Are You?"
Especially in the immediate aftermath of grief, asking a grieving mother, "How are you?" may not yield an authentic response. The complexity of emotions during this time makes it challenging to encapsulate one's feelings in a simple answer.
Instead, inquire about their thoughts and feelings at the moment. Ask, "What is going through your mind right now?" This opens the door for a more nuanced and honest conversation, allowing the mother to express the various emotions she might be experiencing on any given day.
3. Avoid Saying "I Understand"
Grieving is a deeply personal experience, and each person's pain is unique. Refrain from asserting that you understand the specific pain a grieving mother is going through.
Instead, express your willingness to support by asking, "How can I help you?" or inquire about their preferences regarding discussing the loss. Avoid comparisons, such as equating the loss of a child to other experiences, as this might hinder genuine connection and vulnerability.
Dr. B welcomes Carmina Blasko LPC, a mental health counselor with over 10 years of experience, to discuss strategies for navigating the holiday season with grace, resilience, and joy.
Carmina shares her insights on the importance of prioritizing self-care during the holidays, emphasizing the need to balance festive preparations with personal well-being. She highlights the benefits of mindfulness and gratitude practices in cultivating inner peace and appreciating the joys of the season.
Drawing from her clinical experience, Carmina emphasizes the significance of nurturing meaningful connections with loved ones during the holidays. She encourages listeners to engage in quality conversations, shared activities, and expressions of appreciation to strengthen their bonds.
Carmina also addresses the topic of stress management, providing practical tips for identifying signs of stress and implementing healthy coping mechanisms. She reminds listeners that seeking professional support is a valuable resource when needed.
Throughout the conversation, Carmina weaves personal anecdotes and expert advice, offering a holistic perspective on maintaining mental well-being during the holiday season.
Highlights:
Prioritize Self-Care: Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, remember to take time for yourself. Engage in activities that promote relaxation and rejuvenation, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.
Embrace Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness techniques to stay present in the moment and appreciate the joys of the season. Savor the sights, sounds, and smells of the holidays, and express gratitude for the blessings in your life.
Nurture Relationships: Foster meaningful connections with loved ones by making time for quality conversations, shared activities, and expressions of appreciation. Engage in activities that bring joy and strengthen your bonds.
Manage Stress Effectively: Recognize signs of stress and implement healthy coping mechanisms, such as deep breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, or seeking professional support when needed.
Seek Balance: Strike a balance between holiday preparations and personal well-being. Delegate tasks, set realistic expectations, and avoid feeling overwhelmed by the demands of the season.
#SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
In this heartfelt and empowering podcast, Cristi Bundukamara shares a deeply personal journey of grief and the pursuit of gratitude in the face of unimaginable loss. With a story marked by the passing of three beloved children, the speaker offers genuine insights into the challenges of finding gratitude amid profound sorrow.
Timestamps:
00:01 Introduction
01:03 Personal Story
02:45 Struggles and Triumphs
04:51 Why Focus on the Positive
Key Insights:
1. Keep it Simple: The speaker advises against overthinking and encourages simplifying the search for gratitude, focusing on the loving relationships that bring joy.
2. Believe That You Can: Discussing the impact of self-improvement and the law of attraction, the speaker highlights the power of belief in shaping one's ability to find gratitude.
3. Win the Fight with Negative Thoughts: Acknowledging the internal battle, the speaker provides practical advice on overcoming negative thoughts and achieving a balance between grief and gratitude.
Conclusion:
In a world often driven by self-improvement and positive thinking, this video offers a raw and authentic perspective on finding gratitude while grieving. It's a testament to the speaker's resilience and the transformative power of simplicity, belief, and overcoming negative thoughts in the pursuit of healing.
Watch this video to discover a unique approach to navigating grief and uncovering gratitude amidst life's most challenging moments. If you're on a journey of healing or supporting someone in grief, this powerful narrative provides valuable insights and practical guidance.
grief #gratitude #healingjourney #copingwithloss #selfimprovement #positivethinking #lawofattraction #PersonalStory #mentalhealthmatters #empowerment
#selfcare #mindfulness #personalgrowth #empowerment #mentalhealthmatters #cristibundukamara #painandpurpose #mentalstrength #mentallystrong
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👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss and more...
❤️www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
👉 Stay Up To Date on our Mission: Join our mailing list!
❤️ http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
👉Help me turn my pain into purpose: Follow my public grief journey
❤️ www.mentallystrong.com/grief
👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
In this heartfelt podcast, join me on a journey of self-discovery and resilience as I, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, share my personal experiences with unimaginable pain and loss. Together, we'll explore how joy and pain can coexist and practical ways to find joy, even in the midst of grief and trauma.
Key Points:
- Understanding the choice of joy amidst pain
- Acknowledging the coexistence of joy and pain
- Practical strategies for navigating grief and trauma
- The significance of balance and separating elements from grief
- The importance of processing and cherishing the relationship
Whether you're grappling with your own grief or supporting someone through it, these insights provide valuable perspectives and actionable steps. Join the conversation and let's discover the strength to choose joy in the face of life's challenges.
🕐 Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: The coexistence of joy and pain
01:51 - Acknowledging the strength of pain and the choice of joy
02:49 - Practical steps to navigate pain and find joy
04:04 - Dialectical thinking in psychology and its role in processing grief
05:24 - Examples of dialectical thinking in personal experiences
07:17 - Balancing responsibility and processing controlled grief
09:15 - Discovering what truly brings you joy
10:45 - Reflecting on activities that bring joy, even in pain
13:01 - Striving for balance in the intensity of grief
14:45 - Separating elements from grief for effective processing
15:54 - The essence of processing grief as movement and cherishing the relationship
👍 If you found this video helpful, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more content on navigating life's challenges and finding joy through adversity.
GriefAndJoy #MentalHealth #SelfDevelopment #Psychology #ChooseJoy #Resilience #PersonalGrowth
Join Dr. Cristi Bundukamara in a heartfelt discussion about the complexities of grief and the journey towards healing. Drawing from personal experiences of losing three children over 17 years, Dr. Bundukamara challenges conventional grief theories and shares her insights on transforming pain into purpose.
🕰️ Timestamps:
00:00 Grief is Pain
01:21 Passion for Turning Pain into Purpose
02:40 Personal Experiences with Grief
04:30 Grief Theories Explored
06:52 Addressing Spiritual Conflict
08:54 Committing to the Grieving Process
09:55 Learning and Planning for the Future
🤔 Key Insights:
- The intensity of grief is linked to the strength of attachment.
- Exploring the concept of continuing bonds for spiritual connection.
- Challenging traditional grief theories and finding validation in personal pain.
- The dual process model of grief: A scientific perspective on the complicated nature of grieving.
- The importance of addressing spiritual conflicts during the grieving process.
📚 Recommended Resources:
- [Grief and Attachment Theory]
- [Continuing Bonds in Grief]
- [Dual Process Model of Grief]
🙏 Advice from Dr. Bundukamara:
1. Commit to the grieving process - acknowledge the pain.
2. Learn about yourself and others to find what works for you.
3. Make plans for the future, embracing the possibility of joy amidst pain.
🔗 Connect with Dr. Cristi Bundukamara:
- www.mentallystrongacademy.com
- www.cristibundukamara.com
🌈 Join the Conversation:
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let's support each other on the journey to mental strength and resilience.
🔔 Subscribe for More Insights:
Stay tuned for upcoming discussions on grief, mental health, and turning challenges into opportunities. Subscribe for regular updates.
GriefAndHealing #TurningPainIntoPurpose #MentalStrength #DrCristiBundukamara #GriefTheories #PersonalGrowth #subscribenow
#SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
________________________________________________________
👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss and more...
❤️www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
👉 Stay Up To Date on our Mission: Join our mailing list!
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👉Help me turn my pain into purpose: Follow my public grief journey
❤️ www.mentallystrong.com/grief
👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
Welcome to an enlightening and thought-provoking podcast conversation that will take you on a journey to happiness, self-discovery, and enhanced mental fitness. In this engaging discussion, Suzanne Faber and Cristi Bundukamara share their insights into the intricacies of the human psyche, exploring how a deeper understanding of concepts like inner saboteurs and sage brains can pave the way for a more fulfilling and joyous life.
During this insightful conversation, you'll gain valuable insights into the complexities of our inner worlds. Suzanne Faber, a remarkable advocate for mental strength and a passionate executive health and wellness coach, shares her personal journey, drawing from her experiences as a special needs mom. She delves into the emotional toll of advocating for a child with unique needs and the resilience required to navigate life's challenges.
Cristi Bundukamara, an expert in cognitive behavioral psychology, offers her perspective on the vital role that mental strength plays in our contemporary society. Together, they explore the concept of inner saboteurs, those self-defeating thought patterns and behaviors that can hinder our progress and happiness.
As the conversation unfolds, you'll discover the transformative power of embracing inner saboteurs and fostering a sage brain, which is synonymous with greater wisdom and insight. By understanding and conquering these internal obstacles, you can open doors to a life brimming with purpose, fulfillment, and joy.
So, whether you're seeking personal growth, looking to overcome challenges, or simply intrigued by the fascinating realms of the human mind, this podcast will provide you with valuable takeaways and inspiration for your own journey toward a happier and more mentally fit life. Join us on this path of self-discovery and empowerment as we unlock the keys to your inner happiness.
00:00 Introduction
01:26 Suzanne Faber shares her personal story.
04:01 The emotional toll of advocating for a child with special needs.
07:30 Discussing the mentally strong method and cognitive behavioral psychology.
10:11 Suzanne's passion for making a difference in people's lives.
11:09 The need for mental strength and life coaching in today's society.
13:00 Exploring inner saboteurs and understanding their impact.
14:30 Uncovering the impact of saboteurs on behavior.
15:24 Cristi's perspective on the importance of understanding saboteurs.
16:33 Suzanne's resilience and journey as a special needs mom.
#SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
Find Suzanne Faber:
Instagram: Suz_FaberWellness
Facebook: Suzanne Faber https://www.facebook.com/suzanne.faber.798/
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👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss and more...
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❤️ http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
__________________________________________________________
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
My son is dead.
October 30th 2016, it's been 7 years.
In this deeply moving video, we hear the heartfelt and harrowing journey of a mother who lost her beloved son, Reggie, seven years ago. October 30th marks the anniversary of his passing, and the pain remains as poignant as ever.
Cristi Bundukamara, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, shares her heart-wrenching experience and offers three invaluable tips for those who are navigating intense grief. Reggie was born as a healthy and happy child, but as he grew, signs of a more profound issue began to surface. The video recounts the distressing moments when Reggie's health took a devastating turn, leading to a diagnosis of catastrophic epilepsy.
Cristi's tale takes us through the tumultuous path of her son's health struggles, hospitalizations, and her relentless quest for healing solutions. She shares the fateful day when she called 9-1-1, not knowing that it would be the day she'd lose her beloved son. Her raw account of the paramedics' actions and her own emotional turmoil is both heartbreaking and incredibly brave.
Throughout the video, Cristi Bundukamara imparts her wisdom gained from her seven-year journey through grief. Her three essential tips for those enduring similar pain are:
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Do Not Give Up (Timestamp: 05:57): She encourages those in the midst of anguish to keep holding on, even when the pain seems insurmountable.
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Feel the Pain (Timestamp: 04:51): Acknowledge and embrace the pain that comes with anniversaries and holidays, allowing it to be a part of the healing process.
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Address Spiritual Conflict (Timestamp: 05:57): Whether you believe in a higher power or not, explore the spiritual aspect of your grief. It can be a significant part of the healing process, even if it involves feelings of anger or confusion.
Cristi Bundukamara's story is an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable loss. Join her as she embarks on her annual 45 days of grief journey, offering practical advice and support for those seeking to navigate their own paths of grief and healing.
Please take a moment to watch this powerful and heartwarming video, and if you find it valuable, consider subscribing to Cristi's channel for more insightful content on dealing with grief and cherishing the memory of loved ones.
00:00 - Introduction to Cristi Bundukamara's story of loss and grief.
01:15 - The early years of Reggie's life and the signs of an underlying issue.
02:59 - The devastating diagnosis of catastrophic epilepsy and the challenges that followed.
04:51 - The heart-wrenching day when Cristi called 9-1-1, not knowing it would be her son's last.
05:57 - Three essential tips for coping with intense grief
07:55 - Cristi Bundukamara's inspiring journey through grief and healing.
08:42 - Join Cristi's annual 45 days of grief journey for practical advice and support
Feel free to use this list as a reference in the YouTube description to help viewers easily find specific moments in the video.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
Join Cristi Bundukamara, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, as she delves into the world of hypersomnolence, a condition where individuals experience excessive daytime sleepiness. Cristi provides valuable insights into how healthcare professionals can diagnose and differentiate hypersomnolence from other conditions. She emphasizes the importance of self-reported sleep schedules and the impact of sleep patterns on daily life.
Cristi also highlights the significance of ruling out underlying medical conditions and substance use, as both can contribute to hypersomnolence. Her expert knowledge shines through as she discusses conditions such as narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and the effects of substance abuse on sleep patterns. Cristi also touches upon the link between hypersomnolence and mental health issues, reminding us that addressing the whole person is essential for effective treatment.
If you or someone you know is struggling with excessive sleepiness or related symptoms, this video is a must-watch. Cristi Bundukamara's expertise provides clarity and guidance for those seeking to understand and manage hypersomnolence.
Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful content from Cristi Bundukamara, your trusted source for psychiatric healthcare information.
#SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
In this heartfelt and informative podcast, Cristi Bundukamara, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and grief expert, shares her profound insights on the complex emotions and challenges associated with grief. She discusses the fight or flight response, self-love, and the importance of separating grief from trauma and negative thoughts. Cristi also explores spiritual conflict and how to find meaning after loss.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Fight or Flight Response in Grief
00:01:00 - The Importance of Self-Love and Grace in Grief
00:02:30 - Separating Grief from Trauma
00:03:30 - Coping with Spiritual Conflict in Grief
00:06:00 - Addressing Negative Thoughts in Grief
00:09:00 - Finding Spiritual Connection and Meaning
00:12:00 - The Coexistence of Joy and Pain
00:16:00 - Taking Action to Transform Pain into Purpose
Cristi shares personal stories and valuable advice for those dealing with grief. If you or someone you know is navigating the challenging journey of grief, this video offers guidance, support, and hope.
Please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more insightful content on mental health and well-being.
griefsupport #fightorflight #mentalhealthmatters #copingwithloss #PsychiatricNurse #GriefExpert #selfcare #mindfulness #personalgrowth #empowerment #mentalhealthmatters #cristibundukamara #painandpurpose #mentalstrength #mentallystrong
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👉 READ MY STORY: Pain & Purpose: My Journey to Mental Strength
❤️https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJYMDG1D
👉 Stay Up To Date on our Mission: Join our mailing list!
❤️ http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
In this powerful podcast, Cristi Bundukamara, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience, shares her personal journey through unimaginable tragedies and how she found mental strength. If you've ever asked yourself, "Why me?" during difficult times, this video is for you.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Exploring the "Why me?" question
02:01 - Step 1: Think it Through
02:21 - Worksheet Activity
03:36 - Thought mapping and finding the root causes
06:24 - Step 2: Gaining control over your emotions and organizing your thoughts
08:27 - Step 3: Making choices that empower you to move forward
10:51 - Turning "Why me?" into a source of strength and purpose
Dr. B takes you through her personal journey of loss, grief, and trauma, offering practical insights into how to navigate these challenging emotions. She emphasizes the importance of feeling and acknowledging your emotions before making choices that lead to empowerment.
If you or someone you know has faced loss or struggles, share this video to spread the message of mental strength and resilience. Subscribe for more valuable content on various topics related to mental health and personal growth.
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Download the Choice Opportunity worksheet to follow along in an activity with Dr. B. She goes over three empowering steps to answer the age-old question: Why me??
❤️FREE Choice Opportunity Worksheet Download
https://mailchi.mp/mentallystrong/z1usib18eb
#grief #childloss #selfcare #mindfulness #personalgrowth #empowerment #mentalhealthmatters #cristibundukamara #painandpurpose #mentalstrength #mentallystrong
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👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss and more...
❤️www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
👉 Stay Up To Date on our Mission: Join our mailing list!
❤️ http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
➔ Check Out These Popular Videos
► Three Things to Help With Grieving the Loss of a Child
https://youtu.be/w4G1PZbImHE
► How to Handle GRIEF and GUILT
https://youtu.be/a6FXWSTR2jY
In this compelling street interview by Cristi Bundukamara, we delve deep into the heart-wrenching consequences of drunk driving and the profound grief it leaves behind. Every 39 minutes, someone in the United States loses their life to a drunk driver, and in this video, we explore the pain, anger, and lessons that follow such a tragic event.
🚨 Subscribe to Cristi Bundukamara's channel for more thought-provoking content: www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
A brave woman shares a personal tragedy - the loss of the most important person in their life due to a drunk driver's reckless actions. This heartbreaking story forces us to confront the unfairness of it all, igniting a range of emotions, from shock and anger to profound sadness.
🔹 In this video, you'll discover:
✅ The complex nature of grief intertwined with anger and injustice.
✅ Three valuable lessons: Digging deep to understand the true source of anger, seeking support during difficult times, and allowing yourself to feel the pain.
✅ How individuals can transform their pain into a powerful personal vision for a meaningful life.
As you watch this interview, consider the lessons it imparts and how they resonate with your own experiences. Have you or someone you know been affected by drunk driving? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below, and let's continue this important conversation.
In memory of those we've lost, let's work together to raise awareness and prevent future tragedies caused by drunk driving. Together, we can honor their memory and create a safer, more just world.
drunkdriving #injustice #grief #awareness #lessonslearned #streetinterview #mentalstrength
selfcare #mindfulness #personalgrowth #empowerment #mentalhealthmatters #CristiBundukamara #painandpurpose #mentallystrong
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👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss and more...
❤️www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
👉 Stay Up To Date on our Mission: Join our mailing list!
❤️ http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
www.cristibundukamara.com
https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
➔ Check Out These Popular Videos
► Three Things to Help With Grieving the Loss of a Child
https://youtu.be/w4G1PZbImHE
► How to Handle GRIEF and GUILT
https://youtu.be/a6FXWSTR2jY
❤️ FREE Choice Opportunity Worksheet DOWNLOAD use the link below:
https://mailchi.mp/6a3776b7113d/kuz20ksdw4
Are you struggling with overwhelming anger during your grief journey? Join us as an expert in grief, who has personally navigated the loss of three children over 17 years, shares valuable insights on dealing with anger and its connection to the grieving process.
In this video, she discusses the intense anger she encountered on her own grief journey and how it unexpectedly became a protective force field against pain. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and specialist in cognitive behavioral therapy, she sheds light on why anger can surface during grief and the importance of acknowledging it.
Discover practical techniques for dealing with anger, including punching a bag and burning paper, and learn how to begin the process of disabling this protective layer around your emotions.
Explore how anger, depression, and withdrawal can be interconnected in the context of grief, and why it's crucial to address these emotions to facilitate healing.
This video provides valuable insights for anyone facing intense emotions during their grief journey, offering guidance on acknowledging and working through anger as a step towards healing and finding purpose in life once again.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Intro
00:17 A Wall of Anger
01:00 Techniques to Process Anger
01:58 Protective Forcefield
03:01 Anger Turned Inward
04:05 Unbearable Pain
05:12 Disable the Forcefield of Anger
06:00 We are all on a Journey
#anger #angermanagement #grief #childloss #angerandgrief #emotionalwellbeing #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CristiBundukamara #PainandPurpose #MentalStrength #mentallystrong
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👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss and more...
❤️www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
👉 Stay Up To Date on our Mission: Join our mailing list!
❤️ http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
👉DISCOVER THE MENTALLY STRONG METHOD | Book
❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Discover-Mentally-STRONG-Method-Bundukamara/dp/B09S42G3S8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3JC7BPO8YGIXL&keywords=discover+the+mentally+strong+method&qid=1675971284&sprefix=discover+the+menta%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1
__________________________________________________________
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally STRONG & choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Cristi.Bundukamara3
https://www.mentallystrongacademy.com
Instagram @cristibundukamara
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
www.cristibundukamara.com
In this enlightening podcast, we're diving deep into a groundbreaking approach to emotional well-being: managing your emotional budget. Just like financial planning, understanding and optimizing the energy you invest in your emotions can lead to a happier, more balanced life. Join us as we explore the revolutionary insights shared by Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, EdD PMHNP, a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience.
👉FREE CHOICE OPPORTUNITY WORKSHEET:
https://mailchi.mp/a1f83e8a8e7d/iik0sox0nu
Key Points Covered:
Stop Overthinking: Discover effective strategies to break free from the cycle of overthinking, allowing you to redirect your energy towards more positive and productive avenues.
Organize Your Emotional Energy: Learn how to categorize your emotions into the past, present, and future, leading to a clearer understanding of where your emotional energy is being invested.
Make Empowered Choices: Dr. B guides you through the process of aligning your choices with your self-actualization goals. Understand the connection between knowing yourself, liking yourself, and loving yourself through conscious decisions.
Dr. B's journey from emotional struggle to empowerment serves as an inspiring example of how anyone can take control of their emotional well-being. This video offers actionable steps and insights that can change the way you approach your emotions and transform your life.
🌈 Join the Movement Towards Emotional Empowerment! 🌈
Subscribe to our channel, hit the notification bell, and share this video with your friends and family. Let's embrace positive change, cultivate emotional balance, and unlock our true potential together!
EmotionalWellBeing #SelfCare #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters
Are you avoiding everyone after a tragic loss? Is someone you love pushing you away, especially after losing a child? Join Dr. B, a psychiatric nurse with 20+ years of experience, in this YouTube video as she explores the complexities of grief and relationships.
Dr. B, having endured the heartbreaking loss of three children under different circumstances over 17 years, is an expert in grief. She understands the common theme of people withdrawing from their family, spouse, and friends after experiencing profound loss. In this video, she emphasizes the importance of finding a support system to navigate through the grieving process.
Dr. B acknowledges that individuals who have lost a child often feel like nobody truly comprehends their pain. While that may be true, she encourages viewers to recognize that support can still be found. She shares her personal journey of engaging in controlled grief with her family, where they spent time together, looked at pictures, and shared their grief. This process allowed her to find solace and provided an opportunity to understand the pain of others as well.
When others rally around us during our darkest moments, it's natural to feel overwhelmed and think, "This doesn't help." Dr. B shares her realization that while no one can take away the pain, focusing on positive aspects and finding three things to hold onto can bring comfort amidst grief.
Grieving with others, whether they have experienced a similar loss or not, can provide solace and understanding. Dr. B highlights the significance of finding a support system, whether it includes friends who comprehend the pain or caring individuals who are willing to listen. By embracing vulnerability and engaging in open conversations, healing, and connection can be fostered.
Dr. B concludes by urging viewers to mend relationships with those who genuinely want to be supportive. She stresses the importance of finding your support system, even if it consists of only one to three close individuals. This network becomes a crucial source of mental strength throughout the grieving process.
Join Dr. B in this transformative YouTube video as she shares her insights, challenges, and compassionate guidance on finding and nurturing a support system after the loss of a child.
Experience Dr. Cristi Bundukamara's profound journey as she grapples with the concept of truth amidst heartbreaking loss. In this captivating YouTube video , Dr. B shares her personal story, reflecting on the challenges of losing her children and questioning the existence of absolute truth.
Raised by a liberal mother, Dr. B's perspective on right and wrong was fluid. However, upon becoming a born-again Christian, she embraced the absolute truth preached by her church. Tragedy struck when her adopted son Johnny drowned in 2005, shaking her faith. As she raised her children, including her biological son Reggie with a rare condition, she had little time to contemplate the truth.
Reggie's deteriorating health further tested her faith. Despite signs from God, Reggie passed away in 2016. Dr. B embarked on a five-year journey, developing the Mentally Strong Method for controlled grief. Then, her daughter Miah's unexpected death in 2021 shattered her belief in loving absolute truth.
During dedicated grieving activities, Dr. B sought her own truth, separating personal experiences from taught beliefs. She acknowledged the limitations of comprehending absolute truth but validated her encounters with God and her deceased children, challenging the teachings she once followed.
Dr. B now shares her story, encouraging others to embark on their own journeys of truth-seeking. She invites viewers to uncover their personal truths, embracing the process of developing mental strength. Join her in the quest for genuine understanding and wisdom beyond preconceived notions. Begin your journey to find the truth today.
Did you know that 30% of adults report signs of insomnia and only 10% actually meet the DSM-5-TR criteria?
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. If you're struggling to get a good night's sleep, it's important to understand what insomnia is and how it can impact your health and well-being.
In this video, we'll talk about these criteria, the causes and risk factors, and practical strategies for managing and treating this sleep disorder. From lifestyle changes to medication, many options are available to help you get the restful sleep you deserve.
Dr. B sheds light on the challenges of self-care. She understands that taking care of ourselves can be tough when we have so many other responsibilities to juggle. Drawing from her own personal journey, Dr. B shares how she neglected her own well-being for a staggering 17 years while prioritizing the needs of her children, especially those with health issues.
Throughout those difficult years, Dr. B faced various hardships, including the heartbreaking loss of three children. Despite these heartbreaking tragedies, she remained devoted to helping others and even founded Mentally Strong, her own organization, to support more people. However, she eventually realized that she had forgotten to take care of herself along the way. During a 45-day period of her grief journey, she made a commitment to self-care by engaging in activities like meditation and learning about different grief theories.
On the 20th day of her self-care journey, something profound struck Dr. B. She realized that she had been neglecting her own health, With no one else relying on her care anymore, she knew it was time to stop making excuses and start prioritizing her own well-being. Dr. B wants everyone to understand that self-care isn't about following a strict formula; it's about finding what works for you. She encourages you to explore and discover activities that fill your cup and nurture your mental strength.
Are you curious about elimination disorders and how they are diagnosed and treated? In this video, psychiatric nurse practitioner Dr. B continues her series on demystifying the DSM, discussing the three types of elimination disorders: enuresis, encopresis, and other specific elimination disorders. She explains the criteria for diagnosing these disorders, which include repeated incidents over a three-month period and clinical significance. Dr. B also discusses the importance of ruling out medical reasons for the symptoms and differentiating normal accidents from clinical diagnoses. Whether you're a parent worried about your child or just curious about psychiatric diagnoses, this video will provide a thorough understanding of elimination disorders.
In this video, Dr. B, emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help when feeling like hurting oneself in any way, including suicidal thoughts. Dr. B talks about the difference between choice and depression, and how professional treatment can help people in distress. She emphasizes the need for people to make a personal promise to themselves that they will not commit suicide, and to seek professional help if they cannot make that decision. Dr. B shares that during her 45 days of grief, she had a suicidal thought, but she immediately reminded herself of the promise she made to herself not to kill herself. She also talks about the mentally strong method and the importance of learning how to think, organize, and choose. Dr. B acknowledges that suicide is a controversial topic, but emphasizes that it is a choice, and that we can choose life regardless of how painful it is. She urges people to make the choice today that they will not kill themselves, and to choose life, even though it is not easy.
In this episode, we will be discussing Binge Eating Disorder and how it differs from other types of eating disorders. Binge Eating Disorder is characterized by recurring binge episodes with a lack of control but without any compensatory behaviors. It's important to note that being overweight does not necessarily mean one has Binge Eating Disorder. There are specific criteria for diagnosing this disorder, including feeling disgust, embarrassment, or depression after binging, and experiencing marked distress. This disorder is often rooted in underlying emotional and mental issues, and treating the behavior alone may not be effective. Instead, it's important to address the root causes of the disorder through techniques like the mentally strong method. If you or someone you know is struggling with Binge Eating Disorder, remember that seeking professional help is important, and that self-evaluation should be done with care and without self-criticism. Follow along on our mentally strong journey towards improved mental health.
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One of the key insights Dr.B offers is the difference between fixing and healing grief. While fixing involves trying to make the pain go away entirely, healing is a more nuanced process that involves finding ways to process the pain and cherish the relationship with the lost loved one.
Drawing on her own experience, Dr.B describes her "mentally strong method" for processing grief. This method involves acknowledging and accepting the pain, practicing self-care, finding healthy ways to express emotions, and focusing on positive memories of the lost loved one. Dr.B emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help and practicing healing for a lifetime, as healing is an ongoing process.
Bulimia nervosa is a type of eating disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, yet is often shrouded in secrecy and shame. We'll explore the symptoms of bulimia nervosa, including recurring binge eating, feelings of lack of control, and compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, laxatives, or fasting.
To be diagnosed with bulimia nervosa, these behaviors must occur at least once a week for more than three months, and there must be a preoccupation with body shape and weight. Unlike other eating disorders, bulimia nervosa is characterized by a clear cycle of binge and compensation.
We'll also discuss the diagnosis of bulimia nervosa, which involves using the DSM, a book used to diagnose mental health conditions. And, we'll talk about the different treatment options available, which range from behavior modification to therapy to medication. Seeking professional help is critical for individuals struggling with bulimia nervosa, no matter the severity of their symptoms.
By the end of this video, you'll have a better understanding of bulimia nervosa, and what steps you or someone you love can take to get the help and support they need. So, join us on this journey to demystify bulimia nervosa and shed light on this important topic.
Welcome to this insightful video on Anorexia Nervosa featuring Dr. B, an expert in the field of eating disorders. In this video, Dr. B will provide valuable information on the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for Anorexia Nervosa.
Anorexia Nervosa is a serious eating disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a distorted body image and an intense fear of gaining weight, which often leads to restrictive eating habits and excessive weight loss.
Dr. B will explain how Anorexia Nervosa can impact a person's physical and mental health, as well as their relationships and daily life. She will also provide guidance on how to recognize the warning signs of Anorexia Nervosa and how to seek help for yourself or someone you care about.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Anorexia Nervosa, this video is a must-watch. With Dr. B's expertise and compassionate approach, you'll better understand this complex disorder and the resources available for treatment and recovery. Don't miss out on this valuable information.
Cristi Bundukamara, aka Dr. B, an esteemed psychiatric nurse practitioner and an expert in grief counseling, shares a deeply personal account of her experience in the 45 Days of Grief series. Bundukamara emphasizes the complexity of grief and how it differs for each person, describing her journey through controlled grief, an anger wall, and a transformative meltdown. She likens grief to layers of an onion or the strata of an archaeological dig, each layer telling its own story. Dr. B encourages a gentle approach to remove these layers of grief to avoid hurting one's soul or identity. She acknowledges her own experiences with anger and puts on a brave face when dealing with her outer layer of grief. Her insights offer valuable guidance and support to those grappling with grief.
Dr. B is an expert with deep empathy for those dealing with grief, with wide recognition and respect for her knowledge and experience. Her discourse is thoughtful and nuanced, emphasizing the importance of taking a compassionate and gentle approach to work through the layers of grief, using vivid metaphors to convey the opaque nature of the experience. The summary is that Bundukamara provides invaluable guidance and support to those struggling with grief.
Grieving the loss of a loved one is a natural, but often extremely difficult and painful process. It brings about a range of emotions that we may not always know how to cope with, and one of the most common of these emotions is anger. In this insightful and informative video, Dr. B takes a deep dive into understanding and managing the anger that often accompanies grief.
In this video, Dr. B tackles essential questions about anger and grief, shedding light on how these two powerful emotions are interlinked and how you can navigate the emotional upheaval they cause. Drawing upon her vast experience in the field, Dr. B provides valuable tools and real life story to help individuals cope with the complexities of anger and grief. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and understanding why we may feel anger during the grieving process.
Key topics discussed in the video include:
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The role of anger in the grieving process - learn why anger is a natural response to loss and how it may manifest in various forms.
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The connection between anger and unresolved emotions - explore the link between anger and underlying feelings of helplessness, guilt, and remorse.
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Strategies for managing anger during grief - adopt practical tools and coping mechanisms to deal with the intensity of the anger that accompanies loss.
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How to find support and understanding - discover helpful resources and approaches for seeking assistance during this difficult time.
As you continue on your grief journey, finding the balance between processing anger and nurturing your own emotional well-being is vital. Join Dr. B for this enlightening video, and allow her expertise to help guide you through your anger and grief, ultimately leading to a path of healing and growth.
In DR. Cristi Bundukamara's video about Rumination Syndrome, you'll gain insight into a condition that affects many people, often without them even knowing it. Through her informative and interactive presentation, she explains what exactly rumination syndrome is and how it can be both managed and treated. Dr. Bundukamara explains that this condition causes people to regurgitate undigested or partially digested food from the stomach, rechew it, and then either swallow it or spit it out. She also notes that because the food hasn't been fully digested yet, it doesn't have a sour, acidic taste like vomit does. With her detailed information on both the symptoms of rumination syndrome and available treatments for the condition, viewers will be able to better understand and manage their health more effectively. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn more about rumination syndrome
Discover the power of controlled grief with Dr. B as she shares her transformative journey of healing after the heartbreaking loss of her children. In this eye-opening and profoundly moving YouTube video, Dr. B delves into the depths of grief, explaining how she overcame the darkness through the power of controlled grief. ✨
Watch as Dr. B chronicles her emotional odyssey of learning how to channel her pain and sadness into a newfound strength and resilience💪. Witness her transition from a shattered mother struggling to find meaning in the face of tragedy, to a champion who teaches countless others the art of transforming their own grief into a force for personal evolution.
This gripping video provides practical techniques, including mindfulness, acceptance, and self-compassion, while also exploring the powerful impact that controlled grief can have on your mental health and your outlook on life. With Dr. B's guidance and inspiration, you'll discover not just how to survive amid heartache, but also how to thrive, flourish, and grow🌱.
Learn from someone who's been in your shoes, and embark on your own journey of healing and personal renewal with Dr. B. Tune in and uncover the keys to understanding, embracing, and overcoming grief with grace and wisdom.
Join thousands of viewers who have found solace, empowerment, and encouragement through Dr. B's powerful testimony. Leave behind the chains of overwhelming sadness, and unlock the potential within you to redefine your life, despite your loss.
Subscribe to Dr. B's channel now for more life-changing insights on healing, personal growth, and resilience. Embrace the possibilities of turning despair into hope and darkness into light. Gain the strength you need for the journey ahead, with Dr. B by your side. 💗
In Dr. B's informative YouTube video about PICA, an eating disorder in which a person eats non-food items, She covers the definition of PICA and its potential causes and consequences. They discuss how it is linked to other mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety, but can also exist on its own. The video also dives into various treatments for those who suffer from PICA, such as cognitive behavior therapy and nutritional counseling. Dr. B does a great job of explaining this complicated issue in an easy-to-understand way so that anyone can understand what PICA is and how it affects people. Additionally, they provide helpful tips for those looking to help someone with PICA or who may need help themselves. This comprehensive overview will give viewers the knowledge to make informed decisions about this disorder.
Our bodies are much more than skin and bone - they're made of energy, too! That's why Eastern medicine places such importance on our energies. They understand that if we don't tend to issues at the spiritual or energetic level first, those same problems can eventually manifest in a physical form. So taking care of ourselves is essential for maintaining balance – after all; what good does it do us to store up negative emotions? Fortunately, self-movement (as part of the five selves) gives us an outlet to release these emotional blockages from our fascia & muscles so that we receive maybe even greater benefit when positive consumption outweighs its counterpart during metabolic activities like excretion and regeneration.* It just takes patience...and plenty of TLC!
- When did you first realize that you were more than your physical body?
- What was the experience or event that led you to explore your spiritual self?
- How do you define "spiritual self"?
- Do you think it's important for everyone to explore their spiritual side? Why or why not?
- What are some of the benefits of exploring your spiritual self?
In this video, Dr. Cristi Bundukamara discusses the crucial role that developing and maintaining a spiritual self plays in the grieving process. She explains that it's not just about having faith in a higher power or believing in a universe, but truly getting to know your truth and connecting with your spiritual self on an individual level. Through this connection with our spiritual selves, we can develop strategies for dealing with grief, such as practicing gratitude or reflecting on our emotions. This helps us to process grief more effectively and come to terms with the difficult emotions associated with it. By engaging in these practices regularly we can build up our resilience against grief and eventually move forward from it.
Self-regulation is an important part of managing grief. It involves recognizing and managing your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in response to difficult situations. Through self-regulation, we can better understand our feelings, recognize triggers of strong emotions, and take steps to better manage those responses. Self-regulation helps us cope with the grief that often comes with a loss by allowing us to take a step back and observe our reactions before we act on them. Grief can often make us feel out of control; however, taking the time to practice self-regulation skills can help us gain greater control over our emotions. It also provides an opportunity for us to build healthier habits in responding to our internal emotional dialogue such as reframing negative thoughts or practicing mindfulness techniques. With adequate self-regulation strategies, we are better equipped to deal with the overwhelming feeling of grief in a healthy way and find ways to move through it more effectively.
Grieving is a difficult process that can take an emotional toll on an individual. It is important to practice self-care during this time in order to manage the physical, mental, and emotional impacts of the losses and changes that come with grieving. Self-care is more than just getting enough rest or eating healthy meals; it is also about finding activities that bring joy and restoring balance in one’s life.
One way to practice self-care when grieving is to establish a routine for yourself. Even though every day will not be the same, having certain activities or tasks that you do regularly can help to create a sense of stability in your life. Finding something enjoyable to do each day can also help restore balance. This may involve spending time outdoors in nature, engaging in creative activities, practicing mindfulness or meditation, or reconnecting with friends or family members.
Through these posts Dr. B found comfort in knowing that others could relate to her pain; more importantly, though, she realized there was beauty in expressing yourself truthfully even when it hurts — something which ultimately helped her find strength again after such a devastating event happened in her life. She reflected on how despite tragedy striking at any moment, we can still keep going if we have faith in ourselves and know our value is beyond measure
No matter the type or size of your grief, John W. James and Russell Friedman have laid out a path to healing in their powerful guide The Grief Recovery Handbook: Action Program for Moving Beyond Death, Divorce, and Other Losses including Health, Career & Faith. In this special 20th anniversary edition with guidelines on which loss to work through first as well as how best to move forward from health issues and faith struggles; readers are given an opportunity at reclaiming energy and spontaneity after enduring lifelong hardship due to incomplete recovery from grief.
About Grief Day by Day: Simple Practices and Daily Guidance for Living With Loss has been designed to provide readers with guidance and assistance in managing their grief. This inspiring book offers a comprehensive selection of topics, ranging from exhaustion, despair, suicide, and confusion to hope, beauty, music, and faith - all presented with detailed commentary and 364 quotes that are accompanied by their own reflections. In addition to this, the authors have provided 52 unique exercises that can be completed to help those struggling with loss better understand themselves while also working through the emotions they may be experiencing. Taking a holistic approach to the grieving process, each section is aimed at providing users with practical advice as well as spiritual encouragement to get them through even the darkest of days. Whether one is looking for comfort or a way forward after suffering a loss, Grief Day by Day: Simple Practices and Daily Guidance for Living With Loss is an invaluable source of support. Filled with thoughtful topics carefully chosen by experts in the field of bereavement, this book offers an insightful look into how best to navigate these difficult times.
Dr. Bonanno's theory of grieving presents a more optimistic outlook on the status quo of human grief and trauma reactions since Sigmund Freud nearly a century ago. This research found psychological resilience to be at the core of human grief and trauma reactions which overturns the common assumption that grief is universally negative. By better understanding how different people grieve under various circumstances, we can learn to tailor our support systems around those who need it most effectively!
Today, our conversation will explore the ever-changing landscape of grief. We'll compare and contrast how men versus women tackle sorrowful times - but not without an understanding that each situation is unique to its owner. With this in mind, we challenge you to ignore any preconceived notions regarding gender roles when it comes to navigating through painful thoughts and feelings; for there's no one size fits all solution!
Continuing Bonds by Dennis Klass, Phyllis Silverman, and Steven Nickman is an excellent choice if you're looking for a helpful and insightful book on grief. This book offers readers a wealth of information on the grieving process and practical tips for building mental strength and moving forward after loss.
What would you do if you lost your child? This is a question that many parents dread, and for good reason – it's a nightmare scenario. Grief is a natural response to loss, but for some parents, the pain of losing a child can be unbearable. According to attachment theory expert John Bowlby, how we grieve depends on our relationship with our parents. Those who had secure attachments are more likely to mourn in a healthy way, while those who experienced insecure attachments are more likely to struggle with their grief. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at John Bowlby's attachment theory and how it applies to grieving parents. We'll also discuss the possible ways that mental health issues can complicate the grieving process. If you've recently lost a child, we hope this information will be helpful to you as you work through your grief.
The Grieving Brain is an insightful examination of what happens in our brains when we are faced with death and loss. Through her research-backed approach, Mary Francis O'Connor provides readers not only with an understanding of why we grieve but also practical strategies for managing our emotions during this difficult time so that we may move forward on the path towards healing. If you are struggling with your own grief journey or simply want to learn more about this subject matter, then The Grieving Brain is definitely worth checking out!
In this video, we take a look at Sigmund Freud's Grief Work Theory. This theory is based on the idea that in order to move on from a loss, we must first process our grief. We'll discuss the four stages of grief and explore how they can help us understand our own grieving process.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
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Grief is a complicated process that doesn't follow set rules or stages. You may wonder if you're "doing it right," what exactly you should be feeling, and when. Grief is unique to everyone who experiences it, which makes it all the more difficult to understand and know what to expect. However, there are two acronyms - HEALING and DERAILERS - that can serve as a helpful guide to navigating through grief. Grief is a difficult journey, but by following these milestones, you can make it just a little bit easier
Complicated Grief: H.E.A.L.I.N.G. and D.E.R.A.I.L.E.R.S.
https://complicatedgrief.columbia.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/HEALING-Milestones_-What-Grievers-Can-Expect-with-Covid-19-Addendum.pdf
The Columbia Center for Complicated Grief
https://prolongedgrief.columbia.edu/professionals/complicated-grief-professionals/overview/
Have you experienced the death of a loved one? If so, you may be familiar with the dual-process model of bereavement. This video briefly introduces the dual process model and explains how it can help people understand their grief.
In this video, Dr. Cristi Bundukamara interviews her friend Charlene Walters about the process of grieving the loss of a spouse. They discuss the different stages of grief, how to cope with them, and ways to find support during this difficult time.
Learn more about Grief Theory 101: The Dual Process Model of Grief
https://whatsyourgrief.com/dual-process-model-of-grief/
Do you feel like you're stuck in a never-ending cycle of grief?
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara is here to help. In this video, she breaks down the DSM definition of prolonged grief and offers tips for how to get mentally strong and move on from your loss.
This episode is about Dr. Therese Rando's 6 R of mourning. Dr. B will review the 6 R's and share her personal and professional views about the steps. Dr. B is in 45 days of grief series, and part of it is reviewing different books and processes of grief as part of her mission to turn her pain into purpose. The 6 R's of mourning are a great way to approach the grieving process. However, they should not be seen as the only way or the right way. Everyone experiences grief in their own unique way and it is important to honor those feelings. If you are struggling with your grief, please reach out for help. Many people want to support you during this difficult time. Thank you for listening to my review of Dr. Therese Rando's book, The Six Rs of Mourning.
Do you want to learn more about the physical aspect of grief?
Today I will talk about Dr. Mary Frances O'Connor's extensive research on the physical aspect of grief. You'll learn about how grief can manifest physically and how to be mentally strong during this challenging time.
This video is about grief and how to cope with it. Dr.William Worden provides a framework of four tasks that help us understand how people journey through grief. Healing happens gradually as grievers address these tasks in no specific order, going back and forth from one to another over time. In my video, I discuss these tasks with my knowledge as a psychiatric nurse professional and as a mother who lost 3 of her children in a course of 17 years.
Although grasping grief is challenging, Dr.Lois Tonkin's theory of growing around your Grief has resonated with me. Her visuals and explanation make it easier to understand, and I believe that it can be helpful for those who are struggling with their Grief. Time may not heal all wounds, but by growing around our Grief, we can come to terms with what has happened and find ways to move forward. Thank you for following my journey through Grief, and I hope you will continue to watch as I explore other theories in the coming weeks.
I hope that you have found this series helpful. It is my goal to provide information and resources on grief in a way that is easy to understand and accessible. Moving Through Grief by Dr. Kubacky is an excellent resource for those who are looking to process their grief in a healthy way. The book uses ACT therapy which has been shown to be effective in helping people move through their grief. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is struggling with the loss of a loved one.
Grief is a journey, and each step along the way teaches us something new about ourselves and about the world around us.
Grief often brings up intense emotions that can seem contradictory or opposing. We may feel numb and disconnected one moment, and then overwhelmed by sadness and despair the next. These conflicting emotions can make it difficult to know how to respond or what to do next. This is where dialectical thinking comes in. Dialectical thinking is a way of understanding two opposing ideas or points of view and finding a middle ground between them. It is a way of holding two contradictory truths in our minds at the same time.
Learning to think dialectically can help us to make sense of our conflicting emotions and find peace amid the pain. It can help us to see both the darkness and the light, the sorrow and the joy, the hurt, and the healing. Dialectical thinking allows us to find hope in the midst of grief and cultivate mental strength in times of adversity.
So what is a dialectical thinker? A dialectical thinker sees both sides of an issue, understands that there is always more than one truth, and is willing to hold two contradictory ideas in their mind simultaneously. If you are working through your grief journey, I invite you to embrace your inner dialectical thinker. Allow yourself to feel all of your emotions, even the ones that seem contradictory or opposing. Allow yourself to explore both the darkness and the light. And allow yourself to find new meaning in your grief journey. By embracing dialectical thinking, you can turn your pain into purpose and find strength in your grief journey.
We have all heard of the five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. While this model was created by Dr. Kubler Ross based on her clinical experience, it doesn't necessarily reflect everyone's experience with grief. Grief is a profoundly personal journey, and no two people grieve exactly the same way. In my experience with grief, I have found that the five stages are more like a spiral than a linear process. I may move through the stages several times before finally reaching acceptance. And even then, I may find myself revisiting the stages from time to time. Grief is a complex emotion, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with it. What works for one person may not work for another. The important thing is to be patient with yourself and allow yourself to grieve in whatever feels right for you.
Do you know someone with Dissociative Identity Disorder (Multiple Personality Disorder)?
This disorder can be extremely stressful and anxiety-provoking for both the person who has it and their loved ones. In this video, I provide an overview of what Dissociative Identity Disorder is, how it's treated, and some of the common stressors that can trigger symptoms.
What is the treatment for an adjustment disorder? This question is difficult to answer because adjustment disorder is not a specific mental health condition. It is a diagnosis given to people who experience distress after a life change or stressful event. In this video, I will discuss the DSM-5 criteria for adjustment disorder and outline some of the most common treatments.
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If you're worried that your child may be suffering from PTSD, it's essential to get them help as soon as possible. In this video, I discuss the DSM criteria for diagnosing PTSD in children and offer tips for helping your child deal with trauma.
Do you or a loved one suffer from PTSD?
This video provides an overview of DSM-5 post-traumatic stress disorder, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, this video can provide some helpful information.
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Do you want to know how to raise a mentally strong kid?
This podcast offers five secret methods to help you and your child become stronger emotionally. We also discuss the importance of parents being role models for their children regarding mental strength.
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👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, and practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss, and more...
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👉Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
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Looking for information on Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder? You've come to the right place. In this video, we'll discuss what DSED is, the symptoms of the disorder.
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👉Subscribe for more Mentally STRONG Content, practical advice on how to deal with stress, grief, loss and more...
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👉Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
❤️ Learn More | https://youtu.be/Nax62y0ym6o
👍 Register Here | www.mentallystrong.com/events
👉 Stay Up To Date on our Mission: Join our mailing list!
❤️ http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
👉Help me turn my pain into purpose: Follow my public grief journey
❤️ www.mentallystrong.com/grief
👉Read my personal story | Mentally STRONG: Against All Odds
❤️ ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Mentally-STRONG-Against-All-Odds/dp/B09V6T7TSZ/ref=sr_1_2?crid=IJELTVGZSEO3&keywords=mentally+strong+against+all+odds&qid=1658440276&sprefix=mentally+strong+against+all+odd%2Caps%2C161&sr=8-2
Do you know your personality type?
There are many different personality disorders, and each one can be attributed to a certain archetype. In this video, we explore the role of archetypes in personality disorders and how they can help us better understand ourselves and others.
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Why is losing a child so painful? Do you ever get over losing a child? Is there anything worse than losing a child? How does losing a child affect a mother?
Here are the questions we ask ourselves when we experience the tragic loss of our child.
The pain of losing a child is unimaginable. It is said to be one of the worst possible things that can happen to a person. However, is it possible to recover from such a devastating loss? Can anything be worse than losing a child? The whys are often unanswerable.
Today Dr. Cristi Bundukamra would like to share her loss to spread awareness that you are not alone in facing this journey.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. 😱 However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. ❤️ With purpose, Dr. B has developed the elements that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystro...
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
Linktr.ee/mentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ment...
Are you experiencing enormous grief? Specifically the grief of losing a child? This may be the most intense grief a person could experience, but regardless of your grief, we have to address what are our internal beliefs.
When you are grieving, you will feel all sorts of emotions that can make you question everything you once believed.
And sometimes that belief might be the way so that we can overcome and survive this grief.
Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
https://youtu.be/Nax62y0ym6o
Join our mailing list!
http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Do you pull out your hair? Maybe your eyelashes or eyebrows? Or even pick at your skin and wonder what’s wrong with you or what is going on?
You sometimes feel so anxious that you cannot even control yourself anymore.
There’s actually a cause for this. This might be a comorbid symptom or sometimes a representing symptom.
Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
https://youtu.be/Nax62y0ym6o
Join our mailing list!
http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
--
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
With The Mentally STRONG Method, anyone can learn how to map their thoughts in relation to past experiences and circumstances. Through this exercise, clients gain critical insights that empower them to achieve their long-term goals and live a more fulfilling life.
Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
https://youtu.be/Nax62y0ym6o
Join our mailing list!
http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
--
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Do you think you or someone you know has Hoarding Disorder? Hoarding became popular nowadays because of some reality television series that shows the real-life struggles of people with Hoarding Disorders. We can actually see how this disorder can ruin one's life and health. Hoarding is a mental health problem that is sometimes neglected by many. The earlier we diagnose this disorder, the earlier we can help those people suffering from this disorder.
Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
https://youtu.be/Nax62y0ym6o
Join our mailing list!
http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
--
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Have you ever wondered if you have OCD? Has your family or friends accused you of having this disorder because you like to clean? There's more to it than that! Watch this for the actual DSM criteria on obsessive compulsive disorder and how we treat it.
Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
https://youtu.be/Nax62y0ym6o
Join our mailing list!
http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
--
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Dr. B had a free live webinar via Zoom on what is mental strength and how do we teach it? She discusses in detail the elements of the Mentally STRONG Method.
What is mental strength to you? Leave a comment about what it means to you!
Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
https://youtu.be/Nax62y0ym6o
Join our mailing list!
http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
--
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
FREE Choice Opportunity PDF Download - Controlled Grief:
https://mailchi.mp/4740a1224b89/wiqfh8h3ff
Help me turn my pain into purpose, follow my grief journey
https://www.mentallystrong.com/grief/
@Mentally STRONG Academy by Dr. B
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In this video, I am going to teach you 5 daily practices to find your mental strength while grieving the loss of a child. Losing a child is the most painful trauma any parent could go through. Unfortunately, I have lost 3 children. My story is difficult for me every day. However, I know there are many of you out there that have to deal with the pain of losing a child every day for the rest of your lives, just like me.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
___________________________________________
Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
https://youtu.be/Nax62y0ym6o
Join our mailing list!
http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
--
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Help me turn my pain into purpose, follow my grief journey here
https://www.mentallystrong.com/grief/
@Mentally STRONG Academy by Dr. B
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In this video, I am going to teach you how to use "Controlled Grief" when grieving the loss of a child. Losing a child is the most painful trauma any parent could go through. Unfortunately, I have lost 3 children. My story is difficult for me every day. However, I know there are many of you out there that have to deal with the pain of losing a child every day for the rest of your lives, just like me.
FREE Choice Opportunity PDF Download - Controlled Grief:
https://mailchi.mp/4740a1224b89/wiqfh8h3ff
__________________________________________
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
___________________________________________
Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
https://youtu.be/Nax62y0ym6o
Join our mailing list!
http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
--
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Continuing on with our series on Demystifying the DSM with Body Dysmorphic Disorder.
In this video, Dr. B goes over the criteria for body dysmorphic disorder and what it means. She also talks about differential diagnosis and comorbidity with anorexia nervosa.
What can you do if you have things about your body or your physical appearance that you want to change? Do you think about these things literally all the time? If so, you may want to consider seeking professional mental health help for Body Dysmorphic Disorder.
Do you want to learn more about the DSM? Here is a playlist of all of Dr. B's DSM V videos!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhbzZf3gqt8CdGDS8Q8UAsbrYC3KveiZk
Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
https://youtu.be/Nax62y0ym6o
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
FREE Choice Opportunity Worksheet Download on Controlled Grief
https://mailchi.mp/4740a1224b89/wiqfh8h3ff
Help me turn my pain into purpose, follow Dr. B's public grief journey:
www.mentallystrong.com/grief
Grieving mothers often ask me how I do it. I know it sometimes looks like I have it all together and I'm functioning, so I am sharing my story. I've lost three children. I am grieving those losses actively. Most recently my daughter Miah died just this last December 2021. How do you move on? How do you keep fighting and living? It boils down to two things that you must do.
1) Choose life
2) Never give up
This is not an easy journey, but we can do it.
@Mentally STRONG Academy by Dr. B
Do you want to learn more about the Mentally STRONG Method and live in Colorado Springs? We have a live course!
https://youtu.be/Nax62y0ym6o
www.mentallystrong.com/events
Join our mailing list!
http://eepurl.com/g2ya99
--
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Are you wanting to create a culture of mental strength in your organization? Utilizing the Mentally STRONG Method is a great way to do just that. Watch for more information.
Schedule a discovery call:
https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/selfsched?sstoken=UUtZUWR6LWtSR0hEfGRlZmF1bHR8MTQ1OTM2OTcwZTk0MDQ4ZTlkZjdmMTdjOTkxY2FiMmM
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Continuing our series on Demystifying the DSM in the anxiety category. What happens if the anxiety is medical, or substance induced? Listen to learn more.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
@drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Schedule a discovery call:
https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/selfsched?sstoken=UUtZUWR6LWtSR0hEfGRlZmF1bHR8MTQ1OTM2OTcwZTk0MDQ4ZTlkZjdmMTdjOTkxY2FiMmM
--
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
@drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
What is generalized anxiety and how do we treat it?
Anxiety is a completely normal emotion, and it is protective in that it is part of our natural "fight or flight" response.
What do we do when anxiety is at a level that is impeding function?
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Instagram @drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Injustice
Grief
Anxiety
There are so many emotions brought up in all of us, even if you have no connection with the town or the victims. Collective grief. How can we handle these emotions when they come up?
Watch to find out.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
@drcristi_b
@drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Have you experienced significant loss? Learn how to process grief.
FREE WEBINAR:
You are invited to a Zoom meeting. Grief for Seniors
When: Jul 13, 2022 10:00 AM Mountain Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAsdeyvqTIuGtNn66quO_21xFSR17F0PkXk
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
@drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Roe vs Wade Overturned
Wow...and Ouch.
Dialectical Thinking:
I AM PRO CHOICE & I AM PRO LIFE
Both can be true
Have empathy and compassion, relationships are a priority. Listen to the stories. These are real women, real people.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
@drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
How can you get the most out of your ketamine treatments?
Watch this video as Dr. B discusses how to be intentional with your ketamine treatments and how to get the most out of those treatments.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
@drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Have you always been afraid to leave the house or is it just post pandemic? We were all forced to stay home for a long time and learn to like it and function. Agoraphobia is that fear of going out, fear of not being able to escape when you go out. Dr. B here with our series on demystifying the DSM and we're in the anxiety disorder categories and today we're going to talk about agoraphobia.
Oftentimes someone with agoraphobia experiences panic level anxiety when they are trying to do very specific things. For someone with agoraphobia, the core problem is a fear that they're not going to be able to escape.
So, in counseling we would really try to dig deeper than that, right? In the Thought Map, we might say, okay, we know that you have a fear of not being able to escape, but name a time when you weren't able to escape and tell me what happened, right? And we would really keep asking and changing the questions if it doesn't come up right away, right?
One of my pet peeves in mental health in general is someone owning a diagnosis. Oh, I can't do that, I have agoraphobia. I will continue to challenge anybody that is a functional limitation. This is a symptom that you are dealing with. You can treat your agoraphobia. You can have insight into why you're experiencing those symptoms. You can map that out. You can find the core connections. If there's trauma, you can process and move forward from that.
Okay, and they're still very clear biochemical changes that happen in the brain that exhibit symptoms of any of these disorders, right? So, considering medication, if for any of you where this is a functional impairment, but what I challenge each and every one of you is not to own that. You are not agoraphobic. That is not who you are. It is a symptom which you are exhibiting.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
@drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Ketamine and Esketamine (Spravato) are approved for use in treating refractory or treatment resistant depression and suicidality. Have you been considering ketamine treatment and are wondering if it's safe, physically and emotionally?
Is Ketamine safe?
Dr. B has experience administering ketamine for different purposes over a long period of time starting when she was 17 years old in the army. Watch this video to hear all about her experiences and her opinion on whether the drug is safe for treating refractory depression.
Ketamine treatments available at Mentally STRONG in Colorado Springs
719-493-9555
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
@drcristi_b
Watch this video if you are interested in learning more about the Healing Through the Mentally STRONG Method live course in Colorado Springs.
Next Course Date: Friday, July 15th 2022 - 9 am - 5 pm
Register: mentallystrong.com/events
8 CEU credits available for licensed professionals.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
@drcristi_b
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
PANIC DISORDER - Using the Mentally STRONG Method, we would take a Thought Map and we would say: Panic anxiety, last time you had a panic attack. What was going on? What about in the past when you had a panic attack? What was going on? You know, when was the first time you had a panic attack and what was going on? Did you ever have a panic attack or even anxiety in your childhood, right? These are the questions that we would ask to kind of see what the patterns are that brings on that physical symptom, because oftentimes once you get to that panic level of anxiety, we need to use a medication to kind of bring you down. And what happened is because there's such a physical rush of symptoms you kind of forget maybe what the trigger was, right? And so, sitting down doing that Thought Map and trying to find patterns around it. Because once you know what the internal button is probably a core connection that is being pushed when that happens you will have more control of it. And it feels, a panic attack feels like you're out of control, and that is a scary place to be. Nobody feels good in a panic attack. It is possible to deep breathe your way out of a panic attack. I can do that. But oftentimes, if you haven't had therapy and insight, knowing how to do grounding techniques, knowing how to calm yourself down, it might be very difficult to talk yourself or bring yourself out of a panic attack. But that is the goal is to bring yourself out of it, but I think what happens is that the fear fuels the fire. The physical symptoms of the panic attack. The fear of the panic attack fuels that fire, and so then that panic anxiety just gets worse, worse, worse, worse instead of having some insight and knowing how to calm that down, so you definitely need if you are experiencing panic attacks, you definitely need to get with someone who can teach you mindfulness. Deep breathing, grounding techniques, stimulating the Vagus nerve which can help the physical symptoms. For example, you have the biggest nerves in your neck. If you hum, that vibration actually stimulates the Vagus nerve, which is the biggest nerve. Is what would help you calm down. It is also a physical nerve of a calming nerve. These are, there are multiple techniques out there for learning how to bring down or manage your panic anxiety. But also figuring out what your triggers are so that you can decrease the intensity and the frequency in which this occurs. You know, if you're unable to do those things, you might have an underlying also generalized anxiety that you would need to treat with typically an antidepressant medication to get more neurotransmission in your brain. The more we have floating around, the more we can utilize to help us have control of our brain, so that's panic. If you are experiencing it, I know it is super scary, but make sure that you're trying to treat it from every avenue, not just medication so you can do this.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
What can you do when grief gets in the way of your Personal Vision?
Listen to this podcast to find out how Dr. B handles it when grief gets in the way.
www.mentallystrong.com/grief
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
Do you or someone you know have a very specific phobia that isn't related to another diagnosis such as PTSD? Watch this video!
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Dr. B here with our series on demystifying the DSM and today, we're going to be talking about specific phobias, which is one of my fun topics that I talk about. But just to clarify, specific phobias are around a specific thing, not associated with another disorder, so not associated with post-traumatic stress. If you have a specific fear and it’s related to being triggered from a traumatic event, that's more PTSD. Specific phobias are usually something very specific and isolated with no real understanding as to why. Like claustrophobia, and people who are scared to fly. These are common specific phobias, and we often joke to just stop it. Just do it, face your fears, overcome it, and there's actually a type of therapy called systematic desensitization where you do that. But you don't just want to force somebody to go on the airplane who is very scared of going on an airplane, because if they do have a panic attack in the middle of the air, it's going to cause a lot of, at minimum, drama on the airplane. What you do is more of a systematic desensitization. Where you maybe go to a museum where you can sit in an airplane, you get yourself into closed spots. You ask your doctor, maybe, for an as needed medication to take while you go on a plane so that if you start to panic while you're in the air, that you can take that. That's one of the things that we would do here at Mentally STRONG. If it was just this isolated specific phobia, we would challenge you to try to do it without the medication, but having the medication there is your security blanket. If I do start to panic, I have something to take that panic away. What we don't like to do or what I don't like to do when I'm working with people is just give them something to use as needed and never really working on improving that, because we do know that we can control our anxiety. Sometimes that takes a lot of time and practice, and so we're not against giving medication for that in in specific times. But also, I'm going to challenge you if there's a functional impairment to this, I'm going to challenge you to do it. I hope my mom is not watching, but I'm going to use my mom as an example of being afraid of airplanes. And she literally would not get on an airplane to come visit me. She and her husband got an RV and they drove out to visit us. They would drive which was a 36-hour drive. They would rather drive 36 hours than be on a plane for four hours. I would always try to challenge her. And you know my mom is not going to listen to her daughter. But when Reggie died, she had to get on the plane. And she got on a plane, and she did use a medication to do that. What she said to me was very powerful. She said, the worst thing has happened. I can do this; I can get on that plane. Of course, I have to make everything emotional. Specific phobias, you should try to challenge yourself, but is not necessary until it is, right? If she would have refused to get on a plane that day, that would be a major functional impairment in her life, but she did it. She had to do it. She did it so, that's how you judge whether you need to really work on this. If there was a real emergency, could you do what you had to do to be with your loved ones or to support or to whatever the case may be? Specific phobias don't necessarily have to be treated. Sometimes it's, I'm scared of spiders, so you don't go camping right? But you know, think about it, examine it. Do you need to treat that? And if you do, challenge yourself to treat that.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally St
SELECTIVE MUTISM – Are you wondering whether your child is showing signs of Selective Mutism? Dr. B discusses the diagnosis in the DSM-V. See below for a transcript of the video:
Dr. B here with our series on demystifying the DSM. Today I'm going to talk about Selective Mutism, which is also, I talked about with separation anxiety disorder, this is often a symptom of something else, but it does have its own diagnostic criteria because the treatment might be different.
And it’s also super important, especially in children, to make sure that we go through the differential diagnosis and that there's not an actual communication disorder. They have been evaluated by a speech therapist or an occupational therapist, so that we know for sure that this is truly selective mutism.
Just because a child will not speak in certain situations, it could be a choice, right? It could be a behavior. But if it's associated with significantly high anxiety and the child really doesn't feel like they have control of it, that is selective mutism, and it is, very specific to certain situations. Often, the school will notice it, and home will notice it.
And it's treated with behavioral, some cognitive behavioral therapy. We can't really start cognitive behavioral therapy until the child is around 12. We can teach the concepts, which this is what I believe, we should be teaching the concepts of cognitive behavioral therapy so that our children know how to love themselves, talk positively to themselves and begin that process. But truly understanding the abstract connection between their thoughts and their choices is difficult for young children.
So oftentimes the selective mutism happens at that age where we have to do a little more behavioral, reward-based therapy. You know and giving them time. It is an anxiety disorder. There's severe anxiety behind that, so look closely, because they probably also meet criteria for generalized anxiety disorder, which we should and can treat with medication, right? Because the theory behind both depression and anxiety is that there is low neurotransmission, right? We have 26 plus neurotransmitters and some you know we theoretically think are associated with depression and anxiety. But in general, if we can increase one or more of those neurotransmitters, all of them will follow.
There are natural ways, with good food and exercise and sunlight, but if a person has gotten to the point of selective mutism, that anxiety is very very high and we should strongly be considering medication with either behavioral therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy, depending on the age and the ability of the child. But again, making sure that there's been adequate assessments from speech or occupational therapy to make sure that there's not an actual communication disorder which would be treated completely differently than selective mutism.
Dr. B here with our series on demystifying the DSM and we're going into anxiety disorders, which is a huge bucket or cluster of symptoms. Oftentimes, I'll be saying, we really need to be assessing and looking at what's going on because these really are not, many of them, are not isolated individual diagnosis. Okay, so the order, I'm going to just stick with consistency and go in the order of the DSM, but it's not necessarily in the order of importance or how frequently we're seeing it. But the next, or the first one in the anxiety disorders is separation anxiety. We often talk about this and see this in children, and it can be, it can actually be normal. So again, to meet criteria for a DSM diagnosis there has to be a pretty significant impediment in function. And it has to be persistent, so you know a kid going to school for the first time, or the first time that year, a new school, or something has changed in the child’s life, and you see this anxiety about getting up and going to school, that could be normal. And so, let's wait it out. Maybe talk to your pediatrician. Talk to someone about it, but it could potentially be very normal. If you do think that there is a significant anxiety, oftentimes we want to look very closely at, did something happen to that child? So, if they are now 10 years old, have never had separation anxiety before, and now there's pretty significant separation anxiety, something might have happened to that child. Nothing horribly bad, but we do want to try to investigate. And it is also very important when talking to children, remembering that they're very impressionable. You don't want to say statements like: did so and so hit you? You don't want to put in their mind what it could be, right? And a lot of professionals will use play therapy to allow the child to naturally reveal where the anxiety is coming from. Again, this could be anywhere from normal separation anxiety to something significant has happened or could be evidence that there's an underlying generalized anxiety disorder. But very specifically, to meet the criteria for separation anxiety disorder, there has to be a recurrent excessive distress, it's persistent. And there is persistence in its experiences in several locations. There’s a reluctance or refusal to go out of their way and separate in more than one location, so it's not just starting school. It would also be when trying to take them to daycare or toa house where they should feel comfortable. Any kind of separation there. And there is avoidance for that, and it lasts more than four weeks in children and typically more than six months in adults. If you are that adult and you are experiencing a separation anxiety to someone that you are close to, I challenge you. Often, there's something underneath. What is the real anxiety associated with? Because separation anxiety is often a symptom of something else. So again, it could be simple and normal, or it could be there's something seriously going on and this is a symptom of something deeper. And this is often a symptom of post-traumatic stress. There's been some sort of trauma, and now you are experiencing not wanting to separate, not wanting to be alone. Just having insight into that. A lot of these I don't like to even call a disorder, right? They’re a symptom of something that we can work through that we can use cognitive behavioral techniques to find what we call post traumatic growth and post traumatic growth is for any kind of stressor, not necessarily you know, severe trauma. But we all experience micro traumas and we all experience stress, right? How can we take that and grow from it? Think of separation anxiety as a symptom and that we can work through and be stronger because of it.
Dr. B here with Demystifying the DSM and this video is specifically on that cluster of other depressive disorders which I'm going to include, for all of us who experience depression. What can we do about that? The next several pages in the DSM talks about substance or medication induced depression. Again, anything that crosses the blood brain barrier: illegal drugs as well as even cannabis can cause depressive symptoms because it decreases neurotransmission and then there are depressive disorders due to medical conditions. I talk about this in the bipolar series, just making sure that we're looking at the whole picture here when someone is coming in with depressive symptoms. But we all experience, or many of us experience depressed mood. So, what do I do? I personally believe strongly in cognitive behavioral therapy, so if you're in therapy with somebody, please talk to your therapist about using cognitive behavioral therapy. Learn the Mentally STRONG Method. This is a cognitive behavioral approach that you can learn to do on yourself, and it is four elements. The first one is mapping out that depressed mood. What's making me depressed right now and we can all list those, right? But what's made me depressed in the past? What has made me depressed in my childhood and how does this impact my spiritual relationship? These are the four questions we always ask because we can often talk about what's going on in our life. We know what's making us depressed, but if you ask those previous life questions you will actually bring up a pattern of what's going on in your life. And what makes you depressed or contributes to your depression. And oftentimes, it's that internal dialogue and so in the Mentally STRONG Method, we have 10 categories, one of which is your negative self-talk. And that really, really contributes to depression. If you heard someone, if you took your negative thoughts, right? And then you heard your child saying that to themselves or would you say that to your child? That's what I always ask. Why would you talk to yourself in a way that you would never say those things to somebody else? And you are with yourself all of the time. So, you are constantly, or hopefully not constantly, but you are feeding this internal dialogue of negative self-talk, and so I challenge you if you're struggling with depression, I guarantee you there's some negative self-talk in there. There are ten other categories, and you may need to actually learn the whole method to figure out where those things go. That negative self-talk is a good place to start. You've got to reframe that you've got to talk to yourself in a positive way. You've got to learn to love yourself. One of the things that I've been doing recently is just telling me I love myself. I love myself and I'm even getting a little teared up saying it because It's hard. Because sometimes I know there's so many things I don't like. There are so many things that I can say are wrong with me. But that doesn't matter. I'm not talking about your strengths and your weakness. Just like your child, you love your child for their strengths and weaknesses. We need to love ourselves as well and so I challenge you to change that internal dialogue and begin to love yourself and tell yourself that you love yourself. Because you deserve to be happy.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
mentally_strong_
@MentallySTRONG4
https://
Dr. B here with our series on Demystifying the DSM and today I'm talking about PMDD, and if there's men listening, this is a real disorder, and it should be treated. Oftentimes many, many women experience PMS symptoms. But PMDD is to a point of really needing treatment. And even PMS, I want to empower women that even PMS can be treated. I personally take birth control pills on a constant to stop ovulation so that I do not experience those PMS symptoms. That is one of the treatments that we use for PMDD. But oftentimes we also have to add in an antidepressant, sometimes just in those two weeks prior to menses. But oftentimes we have to do it all the time. It's very important that we distinguish PMDD from bipolar type mood, right? It's very specific around the hormone level one week prior to menses. The individual needs to be documenting when they start their menses and where they are in their cycle. Because if there's fluctuations in different times in the cycle, it's likely not PMDD. It's likely more in that bipolar type of mood disorder or mood disorder unspecified. For PMDD it's very specifically in that week prior to the menses is the most severe and actually upon starting menses and the week following menses, the symptoms are improving slowly. It’s very important. You cannot diagnose PMDD without having a clear record of those cycles. And they must have at least five of these symptoms in a dysfunctional manner. Mood swings, suddenly tearful. Severe irritability or anger. Depressed mood or anxiety. A decrease in interests of usual activities. Difficulty concentrating. Severely fatigued. Changes in appetite. Hypersomnia or insomnia. Feeling out of control, and oftentimes they also have physical symptoms. You know, their breasts hurt, they feel inflamed, bloated, and so there's a clear physical component to this hormonal physical component that we often do recommend birth control and again you know we have to look at the history of the person and there are certain kinds of breast cancers and female cancers that can worsen with birth control. So, this is a choice that's made with your doctor. But super important, if you meet criteria for PMDD that you don't just shrug it off as you know this is something we have to deal with as a woman, right? You don't have to. Again, my whole thing is like you deserve to be happy. You deserve to not have to do this half of your life. I remember before myself getting on birth control, I don't have PMDD, but I have PMS, and two weeks out of my month I'm not feeling well, right? I'm having these symptoms of PMS. That's half of my life and as I got older, my cycle shortened. So instead of having a 28-to-36-day menses cycle, I was going to 20-24 day cycle so I'm almost always feeling the symptoms of PMS. I want to empower women that there are safe and effective ways to treat this and that we don't have to endure it just because we're women, right? Because you deserve to be happy.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
mentally_strong_
@MentallySTRONG4
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Dr. B here with our series on Demystifying the DSM. So, the next depressive disorder in the series is called persistent depressive disorder or dysthymia. In the clinic environment we often don't see people with Dysthymia. But maybe they've gotten into their late 20s, early 30s, and now they're going, “Gosh, I just, I've been depressed or down my whole life.” But don't meet criteria for major depressive disorder, have never had any severe depression where they felt like they needed treatment. But oftentimes, when we see them present, it’s in their late 20s and just Gosh I really can't get motivated to do things I've just had a poor appetite my whole life, low energy, fatigue, low self-esteem. I'm just getting through life. I'm not actually excelling. Life coaches might see Dysthymia disorder or people who are, you know, trying to motivate a crowd of people or individuals in the workplace. This is someone who is just kind of skating through life. Never really happy, but never really depressed either. A cartoon character would be like Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh. He would go out with his friends; he would do things. But he was never happy. And like I often tell people; you deserve to be happy. If you are listening to this and you're like, that's me, I've never really had like, truly happy moments, but I don't meet criteria for depression. I don't want to hurt myself, I'm functioning, I go to work, I do what I'm supposed to do. That could be a persistent depressive disorder, and oftentimes that is very well treated with just a low dose of an antidepressant, because theoretically, you have low neurotransmission, low serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine going on in your brain. And so, a low dose antidepressant is very successful with dysthymia. Again, you deserve to be happy.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
mentally_strong_
@MentallySTRONG4
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Dr. B here with our series on Demystifying the DSM. Today I'm going to talk about Major Depressive Disorder and it's kind of ironic to only be doing a 5-minute video on what is the most prevalent diagnosis that we see in our clinic. So many people are struggling with depressive symptoms, and so I want to really help our listeners differentiate the depressive symptoms in Major Depressive Disorder. We all experience symptoms of depression, of extreme sadness, and we often use depression as an adjective on how you feel, like, I feel depressed. If you follow my story, you know that I'm personally grieving the loss of my daughter recently and I have moments where I am depressed. I have not recently met criteria for Major Depressive Disorder. What I want to do here is help distinguish when you meet criteria for Major Depressive Disorder, that there is treatment, and oftentimes people will say, well, I don't want to take medication, I don't necessarily need it. Some of the previous disorders that we've talked about in this series probably need medication, right? There's a biochemical problem in schizophrenia. There's a biochemical problem in bipolar, one that really needs to be addressed from a chemical standpoint. There's also a biochemical component, and some people are predisposed to that and have it come without stress. But then there is this threshold that we can all get to, that puts us to the point where our neurotransmitters are not functioning well enough, right? So, it's okay to, even if you don't have this predisposition, even if you feel like maybe your depression is not bad enough, to need medication. Just think, what if there was something that would help you to be able to choose happiness more often and to get out of bed on a Saturday and do something fun, right? So, there is a strong cognitive behavioral therapy component to treating depression. It's okay to also take medication when you get to the point of meeting criteria for Major Depressive Disorder. I do want you to consider taking medication. Some of the symptoms: depressed mood most days or nearly every day. A market diminished interest in things that typically were pleasurable for you. Any significant weight loss, insomnia or hypersomnia like sleeping too much. Feeling agitated or excessively fatigued. Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, helplessness. If you have five or more of those symptoms please consider medication treatment, or at least getting an evaluation for that. So, those are some of the symptoms for Major Depressive Disorder, and one of the things that we talk about as well is that point of feeling like you want to hurt yourself or even kill yourself, feeling suicidal. If you are at that point, if you feel like hurting yourself, if you're cutting yourself, burning yourself. Doing some other kind of self-mutilation or you feel like you want to die. That is the point that is non-negotiable for me. You must consider medication. Your neurotransmitters are too low, and you need to bring those up. That is specifically major depressive disorder and the how we treat it as Mentally STRONG is you'll come in and get a full psychiatric assessment. We would set you up with a counselor that would do the Mentally STRONG Method. If we change the way we think, we can change our choices. Sometimes that depression is coming from this negative internal dialogue, the way that you're talking to yourself, and we're going to help you reframe that and find those positives so that you can make the choice to go out for a walk on a sunny day, or you can make the choice to exercise, which would naturally bring up those neurotransmitters, right? Find that balance, but if you meet criteria for Major Depressive Disorder, please get an evaluation and get some treatment. You deserve to be happy.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that h
Dr. B here, with our series on Demystifying the DSM. Now I'm going to sum up the other bipolar type of diagnosis. I don't personally study the DSM, and so it's kind of funny that I'm doing this Demystifying the DSM series. I personally study Dr. Stahl and his symptoms and receptors, and any professionals out there, that's who I recommend that you study from. These videos are more for our clients to understand these diagnosis, and when I'm talking to my clients, I'm very specific about “don't own this”, right? This is just a cluster of symptoms, we can work with this, The Mentally STRONG Method and the cognitive behavioral approach to get your thinking and your choices in line with what you want, and if there is a neurobiology symptoms and receptor, we can treat that with medication. So, I'm going to quickly go through some of these other bipolar types. Cyclothymia is the next one here in the DSM, and it's basically a milder bipolar II. Right, so you don't really meet criteria for hypomania. You don't really meet criteria for major depressive disorder, but you still have these pretty significant fluctuations in mood and I would challenge that maybe that we can do that with therapy. Or is there a borderline personality or some other personality disorder contributing to that fluctuation. So that's one of the differential diagnosis with Cyclothymia. The other thing that we often see is substance use. And substance use can often look like bipolar, but it can also mask true bipolar. So really, when there's substance abuse going on, the number one goal is sobriety, and there's several mental health clinics that won't treat someone's mental illness until they have become sober. I actually will treat the mental illness while I'm trying to encourage sobriety, because I think it would be very difficult if I'm severely depressed to stop using my substance if I can't get treatment for my depression, right? So, there are two schools of thought on that, but substance abuse can always, always, always complicate the diagnosis and often can look like bipolar. Also, you can have a fluctuating mood disorder secondary to a medical condition. The first thing I tell people, especially if they're coming in at 50 years or older with their first significant mood disorder symptoms, I'm really looking hard at, Is there a medical reason for this? Because most mental health conditions start in childhood, teens, 20s, rarely, early 30s. After that, if there's no mental health history and then someone has significant problems, let's look closely at medication that they've been prescribed. Steroids are a big culprit. I've had several people who have post steroid mood disorder that looks like bipolar and sometimes we do have to treat that for a period of time and sometimes it can take six months to a year post steroid use to feel stabilized from that. So, anytime someone is presenting with some other medical conditions, look at the medications that they're on, as well as any kind of neurological or inflammatory conditions can actually present as mood problems. Then we have the bucket of unspecified bipolar, I use this diagnosis frequently because I don't know the client well enough to say for sure If it’s bipolar I or bipolar II. We haven't been able to really pinpoint it yet, and that's there in the DSM and then it goes through trying to show you all these little boxes of additional modifiers on that bipolar: bipolar with psychotic features. Bipolar with melancholic features. Bipolar with catatonic features. And we like to get to that point, but I can tell you typically in the first three to six months, I can't be that specific, and often it doesn't matter to be that specific because mood disorders can change, the presentation can change.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depress
Dr. B here with our series on demystifying the DSM and today I'm going to be talking about Bipolar 2 which is significantly harder to diagnose and I'm very cautious and conservative in giving this diagnosis. I feel like, sometimes people have been told that they're moody, that they're bipolar by their friends or their significant other because they have extreme fluctuations in mood. But depression can cause extreme fluctuations in mood. Anxiety can cause that, and PTSD is known for causing significant mood fluctuations. So, I'm very careful. I always tell my clients I'm considering bipolar for you, but I'd like to get to know you better. I would like to see how you respond to certain medications before I tell you for sure that I think Bipolar 2 is your diagnosis. And this is very important because people get diagnosed and then own it and I want to be very diligent, specifically with this one, that I'm not over diagnosing. Someone who maybe has depression, PTSD and they are presenting with fluctuating mood and we give them a bipolar diagnosis and they own that. So, I am always very conservative in giving this diagnosis. But when you're looking at the DSM you have to have one, at least, hypomanic episode in your lifetime. And these are periods of time where you have elated mood or elated self-esteem, maybe shopping sprees, but you feel like you're in control. So, hypomania: hypo means lower. So this is kind of a softer mania, one that looks functional. Most people with bipolar 2 are functioning. They go on a shopping spree and then they feel guilty. Then they budget their money and they pay off their bills so there's some compensation type behaviors. And it impedes function, because that's a DSM criteria, but not to the point of severity that mania does. And so, this is very hidden. I mean, many people with hypomania do not seek treatment during this time. This is when they're super productive. But the depressive episodes become so debilitating that they must begin to treat it like bipolar, because, unfortunately, in bipolar, although oftentimes they're only seeking treatment during the depressive episode, they feel like they want to keep that hypomania. They don't want to let that go. They only want to treat the depression, but the depression, when we try to treat it like major depressive disorder, it doesn't work, or it could cause problems of what we call activating. So, you could give someone with bipolar 2 an antidepressant and it would actually cause a hypomania. And they would think, this antidepressant is working so great because they got to their hypomania, but the crash will likely be quick and a significant crash back into the depression. So, watching for those kinds of things over time. It's not clinically appropriate to give antidepressants when we think it's bipolar 2. We used to do that 20-30 years ago, but we need to be watching very closely. If there's any indication of this bipolar 2 that we're looking more for mood stabilizing agents rather than just antidepressants. In both bipolar one and bipolar 2, you are likely seeing them for the first, second, third time in their depressive episode. Sometimes in that bipolar one they are hospitalized or arrested or something severe but typically in bipolar 2 you do not see them in their hypomanic state because this is productivity. For them, they feel very good and happy, and so it's very important to watch your client over time, to make sure that we have that right diagnosis, but that we don't do it right off the bat either, right? At Mentally STRONG we do frequent follow ups and we coordinate the counseling with the medication follow up so that we can begin to really look at those patterns and treat it accordingly. Because if we're just trying to treat the depression, we will not actually be successful long term. Again, bipolar 2 is significantly harder to diagnose. But much higher functioning people can typically be stabilized with a mild anticonvulsant. Some of t
Dr. B here with our series on demystifying the DSM. Today I'm going to be talking about Bipolar I. This is the most severe type of bipolar. Although the DSM clearly distinguishes bipolar 1, bipolar 2 and cyclothymia, I see clinically that this is more like a continuum. Bipolar diagnosis does not necessarily mean a severe mental illness, but Bipolar I - severe can be very, very debilitating and cause disability. So, it's really on this continuum. When we talk about bipolar one, this is the classic manic depressive that people think about when they think about bipolar. This is someone who has clearly had at least one manic episode in their life. A true manic episode, and possibly some additional hypomanic episodes with depressive episodes. So, how do we determine the difference there? A true manic episode? Clearly, if you're looking at it clinically, it clearly looks abnormal, right? You can even have psychotic features in a true manic episode. So many people have insomnia and insomnia can be a symptom of depression, anxiety, lots of things. So, it's not the diagnostic criteria for bipolar, but often it's not that they're complaining of not being able to sleep, they don't need a lot of sleep, they'll sleep for two hours and be fine and function. So that's a true manic episode of having this elated energy that they don't actually need sleep is one of the main things that we see in that true bipolar one is not very common. Less than 1% of the population have true bipolar one. In the next video when we talk about Bipolar 2, that's a different story, and it's harder to diagnose. Because you have mania, you have hypomania, and you have depression. And many times, people are only seeking treatment during that depressive episode. Manic episodes are often high-risk behavior. Things that are out of character. I have had several clients tell me that they become hypersexual during their manic episode. They could, you know, go on shopping sprees. There are risk taking behavior like drinking and driving things that are out of their character during those manic episodes, and they can identify it afterwards as being completely out of character for them. And so, making sure to when giving that true bipolar 1 diagnosis that there is clearly evidence of a true manic episode with the depressive episodes. Unfortunately, bipolar one clients are the most likely to complete suicide because the extremes go so quickly from, you know, being on top of the world to literally wanting to die within 24 hours. So, the. You know, it just goes very quickly. Unlike someone with depression or the depressed mood, it takes a long time to get to that feeling of suicidality. Bipolar one is truly a biochemical problem and likely will need medication. So, it's important to make sure that we clearly identify those bipolar 1 diagnosis in really looking for the suicidality, protecting them from that piece, and talking very seriously in the beginning about long term. Medication compliance, so that is bipolar 1 diagnosis.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
mentally_strong_
@MentallySTRONG4
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Hi! Dr. B here demystifying the DSM and finishing up the psychotic disorders. So, we've been going over all the different psychotic disorders and the last you know 7 disorders here in this cluster are really not specifically psychotic disorders treated by psychiatrist. We have the substance abuse psychotic disorder, so this means that somebody is intoxicated, and they come in, and they're psychotic because they're intoxicated or someone who is going through withdrawal and has psychotic symptoms during withdrawal. Now we you can with long term use or sometimes if you don't come out of this psychotic episode, it could be a brief psychotic episode that turns into schizophrenia with long term use. So, this is that diagnosis that's given if somebody is intoxicated and they're psychotic, right? But if they continue with psychotic symptoms, and this is where it can start to get personal again. My brother, who I've talked about in other videos has had a substance abuse problem most of his life. Started with alcohol, then to cocaine and in the last five years he's been using meth and about two years ago he had a substance abuse psychotic episode. I told him please stop, please stop. I mean obviously I've been trying to get him to stop using for years. Everybody has this threshold for psychosis and, uh, a substance can throw you over that and you are not able to come back. And that's kind of where he is now. Five years of abusing meth and he meets criteria for schizophrenia and likely even with sobriety, will not go back to complete normalcy so. Obviously don't do drugs, but this is one of the diagnoses that you may see. The other is psychosis due to a medical condition, so you could have someone with Alzheimer's ALS, other kinds of dementias that are beginning to have psychotic symptoms. They're not schizophrenic. Their brain is changing, and it can't compensate, can't adjust and therefore they have this secondary psychosis due to their medical condition and it's important to differentiate that. For the family's sake and for the person's sake that this is not schizophrenia, it is due to their medical condition. A known neurological problem and the then you start to have psychotic symptoms then that is psychosis related to your neurological condition. But if you are completely normal, have no known diagnosis and abruptly start having psychotic symptoms that delirium needs to be ruled out, right? Because this is a delirium is like psychotic symptoms related to an acute medical condition, right? Something that can be treated. We see this a lot in elderly. They will be fine and then suddenly, it's like they have, you know dementia and psychosis. That is likely delirium. Go to the emergency room, get a medical work up. The most common reason is a UTI, which you wouldn't connect those two symptoms, right? So important that if it comes on acutely you get a full medical work up. If you don't have a diagnosis, you get a full medical work up. If somebody comes in my office at 65 or 70 years old, with psychotic symptoms and never having any mental health concerns. Maybe some depression but never any major psychotic concerns in their entire life. We need to do an MRI. We need to work that up medically because there likely is a dementia diagnosis now too. Providers out there, sometimes somebody will come in and tell me they have no history. And I will do the whole medical work up to find out when their brother calls me that they've been diagnosed with schizophrenia since they were 20. So, a good history is super important. But if it comes on late in life, schizophrenia, and other psychotic disorders are usually in the 20s. So, if they come up in an older aged person, you have somebody there to confirm that they have no psychotic history that needs to be worked up medically, acutely or long term. So that is the end of our psychotic series. The last couple are ones that we don't use very often and are very specific to specialties so thank you and
Dr. B here in our series demystifying the DSM and we are on psychotic disorders. Today I'm going to be talking about schizoaffective disorder, so if you came across this just in like a search for schizoaffective disorders, it's going to be important to also look at the schizophrenia video and either the bipolar or depressive videos. Because Schizoaffective brings in those symptoms. And if I'm talking to practitioners the differential diagnosis here sometimes gets confusing, and I have seen people putting schizoaffective and I might have said bipolar with psychotic features. You will see differences in diagnosis among providers and to our clients that are listening. That's OK, right? Unfortunately, mental health is not as black and white as other symptoms in the body, right? Our neurological system and how we present has a lot to do with our environment, how we're raised Our culture You know, Schizoaffective is basically saying that you meet that first criteria for schizophrenia, so go back and look at that That's where you have two of these five symptoms, delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, you must have at least two of those. So, you're meeting those basic criteria for schizophrenia, but then there's this concurrent mood piece, right? So affective means mood and schizo means schizophrenia and affective means mood. So schizoaffective means you are meeting those basic criteria for schizophrenia, but maybe not the negative symptoms or the severe functional decline that you see in schizophrenia. But there's this strong affective component that is there even when we get the psychotic piece in remission. So, when we're treating someone with schizoaffective, we are treating the psychosis first and then the mood second. So oftentimes you'll see the psychotic symptoms decrease and then we have to maybe add an antidepressant or do something specific like an anticonvulsant or a mood stabilizer to treat the affective part. So, in schizoaffective we have two types, we have the bipolar type. Go and look at the bipolar video, which I haven't done yet, but it'll be in the series and the depressive type. Ok, so that means that they're meeting criteria for schizophrenia part A and they are meeting criteria for either bipolar or depression. And that's how we get that schizoaffective diagnosis. But don't be discouraged if you are someone who is diagnosed with that and you're like well, but somebody else said I was bipolar. The reality is here at Mentally STRONG, we treat symptoms and receptors, not DSM diagnosis because DSM diagnosis are really just a cluster of symptoms that don't necessarily go with our neurological circuits. And remember when we're talking about psychotic disorders, we are likely going to have to treat it with medication. Here at Mentally STRONG we are going to take that schizoaffective diagnosis and look at you personally and say what symptoms are you presenting with and how can we treat those. And honestly, we might treat someone with you know, bipolar psychotic features with some of the same medications so don't own your diagnosis as who you are. Just know that these are the symptoms that you are presenting, and psychotic symptoms need to be treated with medication. The affective part of what's going on in the bipolar depression. The maybe you've experienced trauma. That's going to be treated with the Mentally STRONG Method and those with a schizoaffective diagnosis can come learn to function You know, especially with medication and therapy. Function and get control of those symptoms. So that's how we do it here. At Mentally STRONG we treat with medication and counseling.
Dr. B here Demystifying the DSM and we are in the series on psychotic disorders. I don't want to lose some of my followers. Psychotic disorders are our least common diagnosed mental health concern. However, they are the most catastrophic and life changing as far as function and that really brings me to the diagnosis of schizophrenia. When somebody is diagnosed with schizophrenia, they have had psychotic symptoms for longer than six months and actively in a 30-day period. The main criteria are that they must have at least two symptoms over that period of time, and one of those must be a positive symptom. We separate psychotic symptoms into two categories, positive symptoms and negative symptoms. Positive symptoms, and this is politically incorrect, but this means you are positively psychotic, right? This is delusions hallucinations, disorganized speech and the negative symptoms are things like grossly disorganized or just negative symptoms of things that you might also see in depression like not taking care of themselves not being able to function. Those kinds of things. Not taking a shower, you can see all of those You can see negative symptoms in other disorders, but positive symptoms are just in psychotic disorders, so you must have at least two psychotic symptoms over that period of time with a significant impairment in function. Some of those functional things are work, interpersonal relationships, self-care. So, schizophrenia is not taken lightly. When someone is diagnosed with schizophrenia, we are saying that this is a chronic lifetime condition that we really need you to be on medication for.
Schizophrenia is also a very hard thing to treat. If you know someone with schizophrenia medication compliance is the number one thing that the support person in their life can be doing. It's because the likelihood of having another major psychotic break if you come off the meds is very high.
How do we treat that here and Mentally STRONG? Medication management. If it's truly schizophrenia, there is not wiggle room to say they don't need medication. Here at Mentally STRONG we strongly encourage compliance with an antipsychotic medication. Antipsychotics are a big class we use them in bipolar and sometimes as an adjunct in depression, but they are the very specific treatment for schizophrenia and that's what we're going to recommend.
Schizophrenia does not have to be a progressive disorder. This is where it's very important. If you are the support person for someone with schizophrenia, it does not have to be a progressive disorder. But oftentimes it is because people come off their medication, they have another psychotic break and with each psychotic break it becomes more difficult to get them back to what we call their previous level of function, right?
Again, the biggest thing for someone who is a support person or someone with schizophrenia is medication compliance. And getting them to a practitioner, a specialist that knows how to treat specifically those psychotic symptoms. So, it's not necessarily a counselor, it needs to be someone who can prescribe medications.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
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https://www.mentallystrong.com
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Dr. B here with demystifying the DSM and we're in the series on psychotic disorders and I'm going to clump the next two together. Brief psychotic disorder and schizophreniform. So, brief psychotic disorder, say someone presents to the emergency room or a psychiatric hospital, or even in the outpatient psychiatric center and they are meeting criteria for psychosis. They have maybe delusions and hallucinations, but it's very important, and one of the criteria for having some of the other disorders is a significant impairment in function and a period of time of those symptoms. So oftentimes we'll put as the treating diagnosis, brief psychotic disorder, really hoping that it's brief. Some doctors will put psychotic disorder unspecified. If you think that you might be able to bring this person out of it, maybe they ingested a substance, or they had a traumatic event, or something happened that you think that this is brief. It's short lived. We're going to be able to treat them and they're not going to have a chronic condition. Schizophreniform is when there's been a period of time where they have had these symptoms and we are concerned that they are going to eventually meet criteria for schizophrenia, and schizophrenia is a chronic long-term diagnosis that can go into remission, but likely will never go back to baseline. Brief psychotic disorder is kind of that diagnosis that we put on anybody coming in with no mental health history and they are having a psychotic episode and we are hoping that it is brief. So that's what brief psychotic disorder is. Schizophreniform is when they don't quite meet criteria for schizophrenia right now, but the likelihood is high, and this happens when somebody young comes in right at that age where schizophrenia typically develops, and we have not been able to put them into remission quickly. So, we put schizophreniform disorder there. You don't see these chronically. You'll see these diagnosis often if you work in a crisis center or an emergency room where there's not time. Sometimes we need time. A lot of people read this book and they say, oh, you know, if someone meets these criteria, they are this. I tell this to my students all the time, we need time. This diagnostic interview that you can sit with somebody for one hour and know their chronic long-term diagnosis is not fair to you as a practitioner, nor is it fair to the patient, right? So, these are diagnosis that we can treat because we must put a diagnosis in. To patients listening or clients listening. Your doctor had to continue treating you. They must put something otherwise your insurance will not cover it. And so, these are diagnosis that we can use to say we hope this is brief, but these are the symptoms that we are treating.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
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Dr. B here with our series on demystifying the DSM. The next six videos will be specifically on psychotic disorders, so that's the second cluster in the DSM and I'm just going to go in order, not in order of how often we see them. But just in order of the DSM, so that if you are following along and trying to learn. We're just going chapter by chapter. So, in the first part of this. Psychotic disorders. It mentions schizotypal, but that's a personality disorder. And I'll cover it more when we get to the personality disorder chapter. And then it goes into delusional disorders. So, delusions are just by definition, false beliefs. Delusions can be a symptom, but it can be a disorder all by itself, delusions are a symptom of psychosis. But delusional disorder is probably the least likely to see it in a psychiatric environment, because typically if they're coming in for treatment, their delusions are associated with bipolar or they're associated with another type of psychotic disorder, so remember that. The main thing in delusional disorder is that there's no other symptoms that it's just an isolated delusion, so the first type is the erotomaniac, and this is the individual who thinks somebody else is in love with them, right? You know you kind of see it on the news, somebody stalking a celebrity. Oh no this person loves me. That is a romantic delusion. The next one is a grandiose delusion. I think we use this word as an adjective a lot. We'll talk about a celebrity or a public figure being grandiose. Or, you know, even narcissistic in their presentation, narcissistic is a personality disorder. Grandiose is a delusion or a false belief. So, you believe that you're grander than you are. Next is the jealous type. This is where you are constantly believing your significant other is having an affair or having another relationship, but it's not true. So, this can be hard to prove, right? But it is this kind of jealous delusion past the jealous personality. Persecutory type is when you think that others are persecuting you. Remember delusions are a false belief, right? And very rigid and seems abnormal when you have delusional disorder. Somatic type, now there's a whole section on somatic disorders, but a somatic delusion is when you think that something very specific is bigger than it is. You know, I had this mark on my face and I think it's Melanoma and I'm going to die, right? And then you can have mixed types and subtypes. Again, remembering that delusions are a symptom of psychosis, delusional disorder is when there's this isolated fixed delusion and we rarely see it in the psychiatric environment isolated, right? We often see it as a as a symptom of schizophrenia or bipolar and we'll talk about that, in some of the other videos, so thank you for watching.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
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Dr. B here doing our demystifying the DSM of neurodevelopmental disorders and I'm ending with adult ADD ADHD. Confession, I have ADD but I also choose not to treat it with medications, so I'm going to go through why and the pros and cons and how to know if you truly have ADD or ADHD. If you were diagnosed as a child, then likely it has followed you into adulthood and that diagnosis is a little easier. With myself, I'm almost 50, and so I grew up in the age where my mom did not want to put me on Ritalin. It was over diagnosed and really wasn't ever talked about. I functioned average or I felt below average, but to my parents, I could bring home C’s and that was good enough. I grew up believing that I was not smart. I realized now as I had to get a couple degrees to prove it to myself that I am smart and that I have a high intelligence in areas that don't require attention. I don't think that not treating my ADHD was the problem. It was more of if I knew that my problem was just inattention, I could have made accommodations to feel smarter at a younger age. It wasn't an inability to learn, it was an inability to read and pay attention to what I'm reading and comprehend what I'm reading. But on the other hand, what I'm seeing in our culture now is adults coming and they're saying, I think I have ADHD I want to start medication. I think I've had it my whole life. I want to caution you in that direction because there's so many things that can cause inattention. Anxiety causes inattention. If you are worried non-stop, you can't pay attention. If you're depressed, you can't pay attention. So again, inattention by itself is not a diagnosis of ADHD, so it's important to get that full evaluation. If you come into mentally strong to be evaluated for adult ADHD or ADD, come in with an open mind that maybe it's not that. Maybe it's something else. Let's see how we can treat the whole problem. If we think about the theory of ADHD of an underdeveloped prefrontal cortex, you're not getting enough dopamine. Well, the prefrontal cortex is your highest level of functioning. Your executive function, your ability to take in all the information. And make decisions, right? But it also has to do with the brainstem and the reticular activating system, which is your filter, right? Can you turn it off? Can you turn off the noise in the background? Are you easily distracted by things that pull away from your attention? So those are the two areas of the brain that are affected by inattention. But those areas of the brain can be affected by depression and anxiety and other types of mood disorders or even psychotic disorders. So again, coming in with an open mind, we will ask lots of questions, do assessments. We do a cognitive assessment to see you know how you are functioning, not just in attention, but in in other cognitive areas, and especially in late adult. Can we improve your anxiety? And your inattention. Some of those things because those things can be treated with the Mentally STRONG Method. This strong cognitive behavioral approach. Yes, get treatment, but don't think everybody with ADD needs to be on stimulant medications. There's lots of other ways that we can treat it, and we can often treat it with the Mentally STRONG Method. Remember that you are Mentally STRONG.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
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Dr. B here and we are demystifying the DSM and we are going through neurodevelopmental disorders and today I'm going to talk about ADHD which is the most commonly diagnosed in children. It's very important that we don't just take a child and say, oh he's hyper, he won't pay attention. And I say “he” because ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in boys. And you know, slap that label on a child, put them on Ritalin. And I think that there's a lot of controversy around this. When a mother or parent brings a child in, and there's some concerns of ADHD, there's a time component and a lot of assessment components, so one of the first things that I don't think that the layperson understands is that ADHD symptoms, to be diagnosed, must be in more than one setting. If the school is complaining about behaviors, but the parent says they can sit, and they can read a book at home, they can do their homework without getting up for 20-30 minutes, then then it's not in two locations. So, then we must assess what's going on at home or what's going on at school that's different. So maybe just starting with, changing the supporting environment. ADD, attention deficit disorder, or ADHD is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The H just means there's an additional hyperactivity component. ADD, which is more common in girls, doesn't have that hyperactivity component, and unfortunately oftentimes is not diagnosed. But if somebody truly has ADD or ADHD and we do not treat it, research shows that we are decreasing their IQ points by 10 to 20, which means someone who may have been successful going to college and having a great career may not be able to do that. Just imagine if some someone without ADHD, their homework takes them 20 minutes with someone with ADHD and all the accommodations they can do it, but it takes them two hours, are we really evening the playing field? Yes, I understand they could do it if you just make them do it right, but it's taking them two hours when the person without ADD. It only takes them 20 minutes. Is that really fair? Do they really have the same opportunities in life? So that's where I want people to think when they think of, should I treat this or should I not? And these are personal decisions and it's very individualized. It depends on how much support family can give sometimes. I'm not saying I'm pro medication or against medication. If you have a child who you believe has ADD, ADHD, just start the research. Get them an assessment. We have some basic criteria and then here at Mentally STRONG we will often get a full neuro psych testing to make sure there's no other things going on, right? Maybe they can't pay attention because everything is in words and they have dyslexia, right? Maybe it has nothing to do with their ability to pay attention, but their ability to learn, and so those are some of the other neurodevelopmental disorders that we see in children. And that's why it's important when we have any kind of symptoms in children and we get kind of that full neuro psych eval, making sure there's not learning disabilities, communication disorders, motor disorders. Then it is a process of elimination. So just remember that you are Mentally STRONG
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
mentally_strong_
@MentallySTRONG4
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Alright Dr. B here with demystifying the DSM and we are in the neurodevelopmental chapter of the DSM and I would like to talk about autism today. Unfortunately, this is a diagnosis that we are continuing to see a rise in. Lots of young children are being diagnosed with autism.
What that is from is not what this video is about, but it's something that every practitioner and even parents and should all know what autism is. If you have a child with autism, what you should be trying to do and. If you're if you have young children, they probably have someone in their classes that has a diagnosis of autism, so it is important that kind of everybody knows what autism is and what it is not. It is not an intellectual disability, and this is important to kind of clarify. One of the things that you often hear is that, or people assume that individuals with autism also have a low IQ or an intellectual disability. Someone can have both, but not all of them. So, an autism diagnosis by itself does not mean an intellectual disability, and that's super important.
The other important piece of this, it is a communication social disorder and it's possible even those who have a dual diagnosis of an intellectual disability and an autism diagnosis.
This it may just be the way in which we're testing their intelligence that shows that they are at low IQ. Because we're you know that the way that we test is socially what's appropriate for us, right?
If you have a social and communication disorder, you may not test well on this kind of intellectual type disability testing so very clearly that these are two separate disorders.
And in autism there is a social and in communication. It's on this huge spectrum to where you can have someone who I love to use Sheldon on The Big Bang theory as an example, and I don't know if the character was supposed to be, you know, presenting as the kind of this Asperger's.
High functioning autism, but this is the social disconnect.
You know social when people are talking or when there's something going on in a large group, or even in one-to-one conversations. They may be missing what the rest of us pick up naturally, and we don't typically teach these things in our educational system, right? Because we if you don't have autism, you pick these things up naturally, right? You assimilate to your culture.
And the the best-known therapy for children with severe autism moderate to severe autism.
Is ABA applied behavioral analysis.
Which is just It's the behavioral piece of cognitive behavioral, but only the behavioral piece where it's all about rewarding the behaviors that.
Autism in a twofold we should have an applied behavioral analysis assessment.
Not all children will benefit from it, but a lot of them will.
It is the strong standard of care and early intervention for a diagnosis of autism is to get that applied behavioral analysis type therapy
So be nice to parents of children with autism.
You have no idea that the stress and the struggle and the judgment that they get when their child is having a meltdown in public.
It is not easy to find the balance between therapy environment and medication, but there is a possibility to do that and so finding help and getting these kids into the appropriate treatment is a community.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
Dr. B here starting my series on demystifying the DSM. So, the DSM is a book that we use to diagnose mental health conditions and there are several versions.
We're on version 5 right now. It changes a little bit each time
a new version comes out. I'm going to spend this year literally going through this and talking about how we treat these things here at Mentally STRONG
And how to use cognitive behavioral thinking to grasp these disorders, right?
Mental health is very different than other medical disorders in that there is a strong
biological thing going on as well as a psychological
thing going on when and psychological is influenced by your environment, your choices, and so it makes it unique in the way that we treat it.
Because we really need you or the person who is struggling with these things to be on board in helping themselves, and that's what we do here at Mentally STRONG as we really try to empower you to help yourself.
So, the 1st Chapter in the DSM is called neurodevelopmental disorders.
These are evident in children.
And it includes even things like intellectual disability
Which can be mild, moderate, severe.
I personally have two children with intellectual disability, and they had a disorder that was progressive, so they started off with a mild intellectual disability and towards the end of their life had their last IQ scores were
In the 40s and 50s and so anything less than 70 is considered intellectual disability, so the average person has about 100 on the score of your intellectual capacity, so not everybody has taken this test. Usually if you have a child who you think is maybe a little slow.
And you're concerned that their IQ is low.
Uhm, usually somewhere around four or five.
When they start school, the teachers or the pediatrician might notice and order what we call a neuro psych test and in that neuro psych test, they will do an IQ test to see you know.
Is this child average in their ability to learn?
So that's what IQ is. We don't need to know what everyone's IQ is. We know that the average is around 100. Anything lower than 70 is considered intellectually disabled, and they're going to need additional help to learn.
It doesn't mean they can't learn, right?
So how do we treat that here at Mentally STRONG?
Well, there's not a specific treatment for intellectual disability.
It's just modifying education and bringing that person up to their full potential.
So if Intellectual disability is their only diagnosis. There's no other mood components. There's not behavioral components. Then likely they would not need to see a psychiatrist.
They would just need, you know, help in school, accommodations with work as they become an adult.
But oftentimes we see what we call comorbid when I use the word comorbid, I'm talking about there's more than one diagnosis.
So here at Mentally STRONG we do treat people with intellectual disability, but they often have
Comorbid mood disorders or
Other things that we are treating.
Depending on their level, sometimes cognitive behavioral therapy is very difficult because cognitive assumes that there is some
Level of ability to abstract think and so we would have to assess if they really could do the complete
Mentally STRONG method.
But they still could do the behavioral part of the Mentally STRONG method, right?
Anyone can learn new skills and so we do treat intellectual disability here. And you know, we want these individuals to come to their full potential.
And so that is our
Kind of roundabout.
A way of talking about intellectual disability, but it is always in conjunction when we're treating it in the mental health setting.
It's likely in conjunction
This is our YouTube video right before Christmas, and I've been talking about Christmas with your kids and raising mentally strong kids and finding the joy in Christmas. Well, if you're anything like me this year, it's hard, and it's been hard honestly since I lost my son Reggie in 2016. Christmas is always important to me and it's a reminder of the loss. If you're listening today and you have lost somebody. Yes, feel that grief. Feel that pain but find joy. Today I want to talk about, how do you do that when you're struggling with depression? How do you find joy when you really don't feel like it? And this is the choices we talk about, and we talk about it all the time in the Mentally STRONG Method. The Power of Choice. I'm not saying fake it and pretend like you're not depressed, but we can find things in our life to be grateful for and still acknowledge the pain. We can still acknowledge the depression. I want you for right now if you are feeling depressed coming into the holidays and you're worried about finding the joy. I want you to for a second just in your mind to tell yourself on a scale of 1 to 10, where is that depression? And 10 being the absolute worst, maybe even wanting to hurt yourself. If you are above 5 or 7, please seek help, maybe even an antidepressant, that it is OK. That's the other thing here, Mentally STRONG is that balanced thinking. It is the right time to treat yourself and allow yourself to take some antidepressants. Medication is not bad. We have to acknowledge if our depression is at a point where we need treatment. And I have struggled with depression on and off my whole life, the older I get, the more mature I get, the more I work on myself. I feel like I can choose joy. It’s still not easy and this is what I need to tell people. This is why I'm trying to get people to follow me on my journey because it's still a journey, you know, yes, I want you to learn the Mentally STRONG Method, but it is not a drive through you are not going to be healed or cured of your journey, this is part of who you are and there's treatment for depression. I want you to seek that, but it's still something that we have to work through every day. Sometimes it's really hard at the holidays. Sometimes it's really hard to find that joy when you just feel like the world is pretending. But sometimes in that way it feels like pretending we can find that gratitude. I want you to make a list of things that you are grateful for, at least 10 things that you are grateful for and maybe even at least half of those specifically about the holidays. If you were watching the last video or listening to the last video you, you know I started to choke up when I talked about my grandma's cookies but that could be a gratitude. Oh, my grandmother made Christmas a beautiful thing and she passed away when I was in my early 20s. Instead of feeling sad about that that we're coming into the holidays and grandma's not here, we're coming into the holidays and Reggie is not here, part of my gratitude list could be that I had a grandmother that thought Christmas was the best day ever and made sure the rest of us did. It's OK to choke up for that, but it's also OK to say that's part of my gratitude. That's part of my history. That's part of who I am. That's part of my story and I'm grateful for that. I am grateful that Reggie absolutely loved Christmas. So if you're struggling with depression going into Christmas, and especially if you have young kids you have to show up. You have to show up for them. Find the gratitude and have a Merry Christmas and happy holidays and whatever your Spiritual Relationship is look at your traditions, look at that, and have a wonderful holiday season because you are Mentally STRONG.
Dr. B here! Talking about kids and the holidays. Last time I talked about expectations and today I want to talk about traditions. When we are trying to raise Mentally STRONG Kids and we are coming into the holidays, we might have family traditions, spiritual traditions, or things around the holidays that you want to instill in your children as important. I just want to share my story. Honestly, it took me until my late forties to really have balanced thinking around my whole life and I look back now at how I raised my kids. My youngest is 21, so I'm officially done, but when I was raising my kids, I really wasn't teaching them balanced thinking. I practiced a lot of All-or-Nothing thinking, for example: you will obey, or you get things taken away. I have some funny stories about tradition. I was not raised with any spiritual belief system. My grandmother thought Christmas was the absolute best holiday in the world and she began shopping for gifts, in the summer and was done by Thanksgiving and the Christmas tree was up the day after Thanksgiving. Cookies started baking in October and she had a freezer, and I'm getting choked up over this because nobody does this in my family anymore. She had a freezer of cookies and cakes ready for giving gifts to all the neighbors, everybody at her work. Everybody associated with our family got a tray of cookies and cake as a gift at Christmas and so Christmas was always a very happy, festive, giving, social time in our life, and I loved social things. I loved the way my grandmother did Christmas. Then when I was 19 years old, I had a spiritual revelation and I accepted Christ, and I began going to church, I was this all or nothing thinking, right? I went to this extreme saying, “this is Jesus' birth, and it must be celebrated this way.” And so, when I had my kids in my twenties, I thought, OK, it’s more important that I raise them in the Christian tradition than in my grandma's tradition. We gave gifts and we tried to keep some of those traditions. From day one I told my kids there was no Santa. Mostly because I didn’t want to tell them that Jesus is real, and Santa is real and then they get to a point where they don't believe either one, right? I thought I was doing the right thing, but I remember very distinctly, and I don't know why I'm going to cry over this, but I think my daughter was around seven years old and she was talking about Santa, and I'm said, “baby, I've told you, Santa’s not real”, she said mom, “just let me pretend”. I realized I was taking something away from her, her imagination wanted to participate in that. As I'm getting older as a grandma, I have a more realistic balanced thinking of raising kids and I wish I would have just allowed that process to happen naturally. When we talk about Raising Mentally STRONG Kids and the number one thing is relationships are a priority, it’s OK to allow them to experience the tradition. There's no right answer here, and that's where I'm going. There's no right answer of how you do the holidays right, but I challenge you as you're trying to Raise Mentally STRONG Kids decide what traditions and spiritual things you want to bring into the holidays but make it about relationship and allow your child to enjoy and experience those things in a positive way. So that's my take on tradition. There's no right answer. Find your traditions, bring the joy into the holidays. Another thing that I did a lot of is what other people thought I was supposed to do. My grandmother would want me to celebrate it this way. The church wants me to celebrate it this way. Now that my kids are grown and I'm by myself for the holiday, what does the holiday really mean to me? And so, trying and finding my new traditions with my grandchildren and what that looks like. This is an evolving thing; it doesn't stay the same. Find that joy and remember that relationships are a priority and that you are Mentally STRONG.
Raising Mentally STRONG Kids - Mentally STRONG
Hi Dr. B here, we are officially in the holiday season and December is coming and Christmas. I remember growing up my grandmother made such a big deal about Christmas. It was her favorite holiday, and it wasn't really a religious connotation for her. It was about giving. I really think maybe her love language was giving gifts and she would start shopping for Christmas gifts even before Thanksgiving. It's like it was in in Christmas, was always about the kids and so this Holiday season I would like to do a series on Raising Mentally STRONG Kids.We have a whole course on Raising Mentally STRONG Kids and it's not a how to course. It's a self-development and relationship course about how to have that kind of relationship with your child. It’s about learning the developmental milestones and what should I be expecting from my child. I want to start with just each week, giving you a few of tips on Raising Mentally STRONG Kids, It's a journey and it's not just 18 years, it goes into adulthood, but it is about that relationship that you have with them.
And as we go into this holiday season and gift giving this whole concept around expectations of giving and receiving and those kinds of things and we want to make sure that we are teaching our children balance in that. One of my pet peeves in just our culture is that we have a lot of all-or-nothing thinking right, it's like oh I'm going to spend every dime that I have on making sure my kids get at least 10 gifts.
And there's, I want this for them, and I want that for them and it's like, oh, you know you were bad this year, and so you're not getting anything, and we almost threaten children with putting put coal in your stocking and there's this all-or-nothing thinking and even if you think about that continuum, you're like, oh, I don't want to spoil my child. And so how do I have that balance in giving and receiving? And I just want you to focus on 2 things. one (and I'm going to say this one in every video) So hopefully you will always remember that relationships are a priority. If you have a solid relationship with your child. Regardless, if you feel like you've made mistakes or not made mistakes, you saw in the previous videos, I talk about mistakes that I've made with my kids, but relationships are a priority. If you have a relationship with your child, you can correct and guide and that will have strength as they grow, but also this all-or-nothing thinking, really think about how you're approaching the gift giving.
I remember when my kids were small, I had seven children and it was like I needed to have the same number of gifts for each child and I wanted it to be like you walked out there and that it looked magical, right? So, it's all about these numbers of gifts and how magical looked when they walked out and a lot of those gifts were dollar store gifts, especially when they were young, and they didn't need it. But it was almost like I was trying to create a magic and that's OK to do. True, but also, it's not about the number of presents, it's about that relationship that we have. You know I kind of created this and then it was like literally over in in 5 minutes and did they really appreciate the time that was spent doing those things? All I'm saying right now is there's not a right way to do the holidays. What are you doing with your family? Does it feel right to you? Does it promote A relationship with your child and finding that balance? So, the two tips for this video are relationships or priority, and you'll hear that one in every video and balance. Finding that balance is not about the right number of gifts or the right amount of money, or the spoil or not spoil just finding balance. In using this time this month, this holiday season to grow in your relationship with your child because you are Mentally STRONG.
Happy Thanksgiving Week
I’m finishing up the grief series and so I’m pulling myself together and talking about gratefulness in grief. We're going into Thanksgiving and then the holiday season and you know, finding that gratefulness and what does gratefulness do to our mental health and our mental strength? Being grateful in the midst of difficulty and pain, is a choice. And I'm not saying, to go around being fake and pretending to be grateful when you're really angry or hurting. You have to go through this process so that it's genuine and real. I probably cannot stop the DRPLA in my family. So how can I be grateful? How can I take this and find happiness and joy? That doesn't mean I'm grateful for DRPLA. Definitely not. But I am grateful for the time I had with Reggie and his purpose here. He touched so many people, there was a time for a whole year We did what we called Reggie Therapy, which was this hands-on therapy, and he touched the lives of so many of my nursing students. They still follow me today. I am grateful for Miah. I struggled with, “what is her purpose?”. She didn't have this big following like Reggie did. And you know people that meet her they think oh, she's so sweet, but there's not like this huge amount of people following her, but there was this one person outside of my family that fell in love with Miah. And that's Tatiana. And I'll tell you, I truly believe that Miah saved Tatiana’s life, and if you don't know her story, but it's wrapped up in a lot of really hard decisions and trauma and substance use. You know she fell in love with Miah, and she has this bond that is saving Tatiana’s life. So, if Miah’s only purpose. on this earth is to save Tatiana’s Life, it's worth it. So, I'm grateful for that relationship. I am grateful for, if it wasn't for DRPLA, I wouldn't have moved to Colorado, been able to start my own business and share the Mentally STRONG Method with everyone. I wouldn't have even created the Mentally STRONG Method. So, there are ways to actually find gratitude in grief. And in trauma. And I'm not saying it's easy, and I'm not saying to ignore the pain because in my previous videos about grief, I'm I talk a lot about Controlled Grief. You have to feel that pain. But let's find some gratitude in it. Take your pain and make a gratitude list specifically around that pain, and it's going to be difficult. Because the pain is greater than this feeling of gratitude, but you can do it and that's how we keep moving forward. That's how we find that strength. That's how we help other people when we can find that it's easy to say I’m grateful I'm from the US. I'm grateful I have a house, I'm grateful I have a car. We almost expect those things, but it's really hard when we've been through pain that that we feel like no one else has been through to find gratefulness. And I am not happy that my family has DRPLA, but I am grateful for the lives that are being changed because of it. I am finding my mental strength every day. You can find your mental strength in this gratitude because you are Mentally STRONG.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
mentally_strong_
@MentallySTRONG4
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
I don't talk about my brother very often. Because I'm disappointed.
I'm disappointed. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am trying to teach and share mental strength with so many people. And my own brother, I'm losing him to drugs.
So Wayne is still here. He is very much alive. But he is choosing to continue to use substances, and I feel like I could help him, I have all these resources, but am I enabling him because he has me as a lifeline? Is he not ever really hitting rock bottom? But I don't know if I believe in rock bottom. There's a couple times in his life that I thought he hit rock bottom. I thought he hit rock bottom when he went to prison. I thought he hit rock bottom when he was shot in the chest and airlifted to the trauma center.
And so, what do I do with this grief? And in my belief that you never give up, you don't give up on relationships. You don't give up on people. And I really believe that. But I also believe in boundaries and so how do I juggle all of those truths a little bit about Wayne?
When Reggie passed away in October of 2016. I don't know if he had previously used meth or not, but that's when it became evident to us that he was using substances more than just alcohol. And it became that his drug of choice was meth, methamphetamine and as a professional I know that that's one of the worst substances. It actually changes. The dopamine receptors, burns them out, and we know that that there's so much damage that's going on in the brain.
We are now at the anniversary of five years since Reggie's death, so probably using methamphetamines for five years, I treat people with substance abuse problems. I empower people to learn the mentally strong method and make positive choices and hang my brother day after day is making poor choices and poor choices, and the drugs are winning the battle. And so, I'm going to do a whole series on addiction in 2022, so look for that. Today is a series about grief.
I've lost my brother to an addiction, but he's still here.
How do I manage that? and so I'm taking the time, we talk a lot about taking time to grieve, I'd say you've got to take the time to grieve, and so I am mourning the loss of the brother that I knew.
But still providing some sort of lifeline. These are choices that I made and there is no absolute right answer, and this is. You know there's a lot of support systems that say, oh, you have to cut them off and just take care of yourself.
But I have stopped to take the time to grieve.
And I may have made some bad choices. Maybe I was letting him. Maybe I was enabling him by knowing he was using drugs and still paying him for odd jobs. I don't know. So, if you're out there watching and you have a family member addicted. Take care of yourself first, like that oxygen to yourself before. Don't give up.
Continue to try to help with realistic boundaries for yourself. I’m not saying it's easy. It's very hard. I love you Wayne and I will continue to be here for you. I believe that you can find your mental strength and I will continue to find mine because I believe that we all have that in us.
That we are all Mentally STRONG
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
mentally_strong_
@MentallySTRONG4
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Dr. B here in my series on grief. Today's topic is on anticipatory grief, this happens the first time I experienced anticipatory grief was when my grandmother, who was a big part of raising me my closest relationship at the time was diagnosed with cancer and then the treatment wasn't working and there was this progression and the anticipatory grief of her passing and I know that a lot of people go into grief in this way, right? Maybe your family members on Hospice. Maybe they were diagnosed with a terminal condition.
I feel like I have been living in anticipatory grief since 2008 when I Reggie, my husband and my daughter were diagnosed with DRPLA. And as you're watching my videos, you'll know that I lost Reggie in 2016 from complications of DRPLA.
And then my daughter, my daughter is now 21, but she is probably cognitively, maybe 10 years old. She is now at the beginning of having difficulty walking and there's this continual reminder that her brain is slowly dying. DRPLA causes atrophy in the brain, atrophy is death, cell death and it's a very slow progression. Reggie was considered a quick progression. He was diagnosed at age 9 and he passed away at 17. He began having symptoms at like four or five years old, so that would be considered a rapid progression of DRPLA. My husband did not begin showing signs until he was about 45. He's now 52.
You know this year really hit me hard. This is the 5-year anniversary of Reggie’s death and I'm really looking at Miah and I'm realizing that I'm protecting my heart. Like I'm not loving her the way I was loving Reggie. Reggie was so sick when he was young that a lot of my attention and time was on Reggie. And then after Reggie passed, it's almost like I'm scared to shift that time to Miah because I'm going to lose her too. And I'm likely going to lose my husband. I like to say likely because you know anything is possible and I'm trying to think positive.
That anticipatory grief is real, and you know, learning how to live in joy in that, it is very difficult because you almost want to grieve their loss before they're gone.
That’s taking away something that you could have something precious in this present moment.
And so I've been wrestling with this and I've been like trying to figure out how I can open up my heart, and I do things like yoga and Tai Chi, and there's like these techniques about opening your heart, but the one that's really sticking with me when it comes to anticipatory grief is this technique in Tai chi where you take your past and you visualize your past in your hand and my past has grief, right? I mean, I fought and fought and fought for Reggie and you still passed. And then you put your future in the other hand, in images and I say I'm going to lose Miah. It doesn't matter how much I fight, I'm going to lose her.
And you take those two things and you bring them together and for me I'm bringing them together in prayer, but also in trying to be present.
Miah has really good days. She is a happy girl. Everybody loves her. She's so sweet. Her heart is so sweet. I am practicing living in the present and that's all we can do in anticipatory grief.
Don't spend too much time in controlled grief, if you are doing a lot of anticipatory grief in the present. You're taking away from the present because that's your pain of the future even if it's very likely and we should always hope that there's a chance that it doesn't happen, right?
But you can be realistic but be present in the moment and not spend too much energy in that anticipatory grief because that's the pain of your future. You already have the pain of your past, and sometimes there's pain in the present, but let's try to stay in the present and find those gratitude's of the beautiful moments that you have. And not spend too much time in anticipatory grief.
Because you will feel that pain later.
You are Mentally STRONG.
www.mentallystrong.co
Today I want to focus on guilt around grief, you know I hear this a lot when people are talking about grief and you'll notice I'm grabbing this, these are Reggie’s ashes that I wear with me and you know, there's sometimes guilt, shame, anger around a grief and this is why it's so important when we're teaching the Mentally STRONG Method is that we help you to separate these things.
I'm going to tell you about guilt today. The guilt of “could I have done something different? What did I do wrong? Could I have changed the outcome of that day?”
The day that Reggie passed I can honestly say as a nurse that his death that day was my fault. This is where it is so important to separate these things. In the grief and the decisions and the choices, it's OK to acknowledge something that you did wrong, but if I would have just sat and ruminated on what I'm about to tell you for the last five years. I would probably be suicidal, honestly. So, we have to make a choice. The ways of how we organize these things in our brain and what we do with them.
The night Reggie passed away he wasn't breathing well. Every time I go to the hospital, they never are able to do anything for him. He has really bad days and really good days and so I just thought it's a bad day. I didn't know that something bigger was going on. I typically have really good assessment skills. Like when somebody is not breathing right, that is always an emergency. What the heck was I thinking? I didn't call 911 until his saturations were going down and I couldn't get them back up. When the paramedics walked into Reggie's room, they knew that he was slipping fast. They immediately began CPR. I couldn't believe it. I was so wrong. I walked away, and I started praying. The paramedic asked me to call it, asked me to tell them to stop doing CPR on my own child. I couldn't do it.
I tell you that because each of you may have a story that someone else can't convince you, and you can't convince yourself that it was the right decision. It's OK to acknowledge a mistake that caused a tragedy. You also need to forgive yourself. It's OK to feel guilty, but you can't stay there. You cannot stay there.
Maybe I would have taken him to the ER, and he would have died at the hospital. I can't say what would have happened if I would have made the the better decision.
So, acknowledge if you did make a mistake. Forgive yourself. And allow yourself to grieve the loss.
When we talk about the Mentally STRONG Method: Think, Organize, Choose. You can think about that, analyze where you went wrong, you've got to organize it. Put the grief in the right box. Put behaviors and choices in the right box. We are never going to do everything right.
You've got to let go of the emotional baggage, that weight that is on you in order to move forward.
So, grief and guilt.
Try to separate them.
The grief, you have to feel that pain.
The guilt, you have to forgive yourself and this is why:
I truly believe in empowering everyone to be able to confidently say “I am Mentally STRONG.”
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
https://www.facebook.com/Mentallystronginc
https://www.mentallystrong.com
mentally_strong_
@MentallySTRONG4
https://www.youtube.com/c/drbmentallystrong
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentallystrong
Our behaviors and choices play a big part in our mental strength. In this, the last video in a series of 6 on the Mentally STRONG Method, Dr. B discusses how behaviors and choices impact you and how to organize and control them.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
Everyone experiences anxiety to some degree, and a low level of anxiety can be helpful in keeping us productive. It's when the anxiety is overwhelming that we need to get it under control. You do have the power to control your anxiety. In this 5th video of 6 in the series on The Mentally STRONG Method, Dr. B discusses anxiety, how it impacts you, and how you can organize your brain.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
Everyone experiences negative thought. This is the 4th video in a series on the Mentally STRONG Method. Learn about negative thoughts, how they impact you and how you can organize them.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
This is the 3rd in a series of 6 podcasts about the Mentally STRONG Method. Learn about trauma, what it is, how it impacts you and how you can organize your brain! Think, organize, choose.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
Grief is one of the ten categories in The Mentally STRONG Method. Learn more about grief, what it is and how to organize it in your brain.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
This is the first podcast in a series of 6 on The Mentally STRONG Method, I will be working with you through the categories, and what they mean for your life! Today I am talking about core connections and triggers.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
In this podcast I discuss the importance of making time for your mental health! It impacts all the areas of your life, if you are struggling, take time to work on you.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
Everyone feels overwhelmed at some point in their lives, what matter is how we react to that feeling! Join me as I discuss how you can learn to think, organize and choose using The Mentally STRONG Method.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
One of my followers recently requested a video about shame and doubt and so in this video I talk about what to do with shame and doubt. Remember to think, organize and choose; and you ARE Mentally STRONG.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
Do you want to learn to be Mentally STRONG? Dr. B and Tatiana, shares her story of success with using The Mentally STRONG Method. A simple cognitive behavioral technique that you can learn to help you to think, organize and choose.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
Happy Father's Day to all the fathers out there, especially my own. My father adopted me when I was 9 years old and I know it was not easy, so if you are reading this Dad, thank you! In my video today I address common issues that come up in women's relationships with their fathers and how to start working on a relationship if you have grown apart. If your relationship with your father can be functional, this does not include abusive situations, then reach out and start to build that relationships, because relationships are a priority!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
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Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
In honor of Men's Health Month we are adding to our series on Men's Mental Health. In this video I will speak with my husband, Dr. Francis Bundukamara about how men can process grief. He tells his story of the grief he has been through and gives helpful tips.
www.mentallystrong.com
In honor of June being Men's Health Month, I am doing a series on Men's Mental Health. Today I am interviewing Kenny Brown on the topic of PTSD in men. Listen to his powerful story about his experiences with deployment, military PTSD and trauma from his past. There is a way to organize your brain and process trauma.
mensmentalhealth #menshealthmonth #mentallystrong
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
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Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
You ARE Mentally STRONG! But we can ALL be Mentally STRONGer and we can do it together! I created what I call "The Mentally STRONG Method". It is a scientifically cognitive behavioral based approach that EVERYONE can learn to improve their mental strength. The method has four phases and each one serves a specific purpose to help you improve your mental strength. We are launching our first official Learn the Mentally STRONG Method course and it's called "Mentally STRONGer Together!"
Sign up before June 1st for a discounted price and we also have a 15% off Welcome discount use coupon code WELCOME15
https://www.mentallystrong.com/strongertogether
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
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Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
Dr. B was recently featured on Our Town with Sarada Connors. Here is a clip from that feature!
I currently live in Colorado and there have been TWO major mass shootings here and very close to and also in my community in the last few months. In Boulder, Colorado at a King Sooper and also in Colorado Springs, in a family's home. This rocks me to the core, it rocks the community to the core. People want answers about why this happens. People are angry, they talk about gun laws and problems with the mental health system. Who is at fault? Who can we blame? I challenge you, instead of reacting with anger, respond with empathy and love, especially for the family member of the victims.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
There is no such thing as a perfect parent, but we CAN raise Mentally STRONG Kids!
Our online course is launching June 1st, pre-order now for a discount https://www.mentallystrong.com/raisingmentallystrongkids
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
___________________________________________
Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
Dr. B and Special Guest Charlene Walters PhD discuss our Raising Mentally STRONG Kids Course!
Register Here:
www.mentallystrong.com/raisingmentallystrongkids
Charlene Walters, PhD
https://ownyourother.com/
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
___________________________________________
Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
Today I interview special guest Carmen Kosicek PMHNP! We discuss how mental health care is not currently standardized and there is a great need for this! New medications are fiscally attainable and the DSM is a cluster of symptoms instead of using symptoms and receptors. The use of psychopharmacology and CBT is the answer to standardized mental health care!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
___________________________________________
Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
Special Guest Dr Fleming, MD and Dr. B discuss CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and TMS and how they actually make changes to your brain.
See Dr. Fleming at Southern Colorado TMS Center
https://southerncoloradotms.com/
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
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Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
Link to Julia's Book: Go Big Now!
https://juliapimsleur.com/gobignow
In this video I get to sit down with Julia Pimsleur, who is on a mission to get 1 million women to 1 million dollars in revenue in their businesses. She is a business and entrepreneur mindset coach but her training can be really be used by anyone who wants to go big in any area of their lives.
Mentally STRONG and The Mentally STRONG Method are very aligned with these concepts and learning The Mentally STRONG Method can help you gain insight to get you into that mindset shift.
We discuss how both of us have noticed that negative self talk is a pervasive problem especially with women. Cut out that negative self talk!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
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Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
Emotional is NOT a bad word! In this series on empowering women, I am now addressing my own personal experience with being called "too emotional' as a child. Emotions are natural, through the Mentally STRONG method we can teach ourselves how to control our emotions so they don't control us, but it is good to be emotional, own it!!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
Fellow women, find your passion, find your power, and do it.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Mentally STRONG Method that she created and wants to share with you.
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Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
In my new series about empowering women, I tackle the idea of the second shift. The invisible load of taking care of a home that often falls to women. In this video I will talk about how organizing your brain can help!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
We all have bad days, all of us! We know where we want to be but sometimes we just don't know how to move forward. Mindset is so important in all aspects of life, including business. Coaching works! Dr. B interviews her personal business coach about her new book:
Launch Your Inner Entrepreneur: 10 Mindset Shifts for Women to Take Action, Unleash Creativity and Achieve Financial Success is a book by Charlene Walters, MBA, PhD to help women achieve their entrepreneurial goals (McGrawHill). 2021 is your year ! Find out more at:
Launch Your Inner Entrepreneur: https://ownyourother.com/my-book
Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/yb8I3SyosZY
https://ownyourother.com/
𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠❗ is a great tool to change, improve or keep up that mindset! Choice Mapping is a cognitive behavioral formula that you can learn to empower others! Interested in becoming a Choice Mapping Coach? Visit this site:
www.mentallystrong.com/becomeacoach
Here are a few more videos you might be interested in:
HOW TO BE HAPPY | CONQUER MENTAL HEALTH
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xa8M4...
SEEKING HELP FOR MENTAL HEALTH IS A SIGN OF STRENGTH
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oqi6N...
If you find the video useful, like it and hit the bell button to receive notifications the next time I publish something worth your time. You ARE Mentally STRONG!
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
___________________________________________
Being mentally strong is a lifetime journey, choice mapping can help you get there!
Choice mapping link:
➔ Stay Connected With Dr. B - Mentally Strong
► Website: https://www.mentallystrong.com/home
► Email: questions@mentallystrong.com
► Office: (719) 493-9555
► Secure Fax: (719) 284-4627
To become mentally strong and easily overcome obstacles, visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
accesstomentalhealthtreatment #mentalhealthtreatment #mentallystrong
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
___________________________________________
Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
Knowing that you are going to lose someone is a different kind of grief. This is my story. Even though the grief of losing a child is unlike anything else you will ever experience, you CAN be okay. You are Mentally STRONG.
There are many different ways that people experience grief and loss. This is the third in a series of videos on grieving the loss of a child through the different types of grief. No matter what happened, you will need to feel the paid of grief. This video deals with anticipatory grief.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
This is my story. Even though the grief of losing a child is unlike anything else you will ever experience, you CAN be okay. You are Mentally STRONG.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
___________________________________________
Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
There are many different ways that people experience grief and loss. This is the first in a series of videos on grieving the loss of a child through the different types of grief. No matter what happened, you will need to feel the paid of grief. This video deals with grief from a sudden and unexpected loss.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
I am nervous to be sharing my thoughts on this topic. There are so many different types of therapy and many are effective. In this podcast I will explain how Choice Mapping can be the glue that brings all the modalities together and helps standardize treatment.
In the mentally strong medical model we want to have a place where people can go, get an initial assessment for both counseling and medication so that they can be matched with the right person and the right treatment plan.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞❗
Do you need a mental health treatment? If you do, comment below and let me know if you want to become mentally strong!
If you find the video useful, like it and hit the bell button to receive notifications the next time I publish something worth your time. Stay mentally strong!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
Suicide is not an option | you have a choice | #notanoption
Don't wait until it's too late!
I want to talk to you about shifting our mindset to "suicidal" being a thought or a feeling instead of an action. It does not have to be an action. We can all come together to make Suicide NOT AN OPTION. We need to make a decision when our head is clear, not when you are having suicidal thoughts. I hope that you can join me in a movement for a commitment for ourselves and encourage others to also make the commitment to make suicide #notanoption. Make that choice today. I am praying for you on your journey. God Bless. -Dr. B
Suicide prevention is all of our responsibility. Even if you have never felt suicidal, make the decision and make a commitment to yourself today that suicide is NOT AN OPTION #notanoption.
I want this to go viral. Too many lives are lost to suicide each year. Tens of thousands of lives. You matter!
If you are feeling suicidal, Call 911 or National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
I am nervous to be sharing my thoughts on this topic. Psychopharmacology is not currently standardized in mental health care. In this video I will explain how the system has failed us in that the way that prescribers are set up to diagnose and treat mental illness is based on clusters of symptoms in the DSM5 and not by the circuits and receptors that form the neuropathways in our brains!
Visit this link for more information about Dr. Stephen Stahl
http://www.neiglobal.com/General/StahlSM/tabid/117/Default.aspx
Dr. Stahl offers coursework in his field and all of the Mentally STRONG providers are working towards becoming Master Psychopharmacologists.
In the mentally strong medical model we want to have a place where people can go, get an initial assessment for both counseling and medication so that they can be matched with the right person and the right treatment plan.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞❗
Do you need a mental health treatment? If you do, comment below and let me know if you want to become mentally strong!
If you find the video useful, like it and hit the bell button to receive notifications the next time I publish something worth your time. Stay mentally strong!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
Mental health stigma is a problem for many people and may prevent them from seeking help. Mental health is a lifetime journey, and we will cover this topic thoroughly in this series on the problems in the world of mental health care.
Here are two usually recommended solutions that might not work for you:
𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 M𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 is the solution❗ 🎯 In this podcast, I will reveal why Choice mapping is a solution to the problem of mental health stigma. Furthermore, you will learn proven and skillful tips on how to improve your mental health.
We use Choice Mapping beyond our professional counseling sessions. We empower you to do the Choice Mapping on your own or get together with someone and do a Stronger Together session. That person can be your best friend! If you use the same language for mental health and mental strength, the amount of time you will spend with a therapist will decrease and you will save out of pocket expenses!
In the mentally strong medical model we want to have a place where people can go, get an initial assessment for both counseling and medication so that they can be matched with the right person and the right treatment plan.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞❗
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
___________________________________________
Being mentally strong is a lifetime journey, choice mapping can help you get there!
Access to mental health treatment is a problem for many people usually due to high cost and insufficient coverage. Mental health is a lifetime journey, and we will cover this topic thoroughly in this series on the problems in seeking mental health treatments.
Here are two usually recommended solutions that might not work for you:
💊 Medication
👭🏼 Short and less frequent sessions
𝐒𝐨, 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐭-𝐞𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧❓
𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠❗ 🎯 In this podcast, I will reveal why Choice mapping and "Stronger Together" course I developed, are a better option and how they work in tandem. Furthermore, you will learn proven and skillful tips on how to improve your mental health.
We use Choice Mapping beyond our professional counseling sessions. We empower you to do the Choice Mapping on your own or get together with someone and do a Stronger Together session. That person can be your best friend! If you use the same language for mental health and mental strength, the amount of time you will spend with a therapist will decrease and you will save out of pocket expenses!
In the mentally strong medical model we want to have a place where people can go, get an initial assessment for both counseling and medication so that they can be matched with the right person and the right treatment plan.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞❗
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
___________________________________________
Being mentally strong is a lifetime journey, choice mapping can help you get there!
► Website: https://www.mentallystrong.com/home
► Email: questions@mentallystrong.com
► Office: (719) 493-9555
► Secure Fax: (719) 284-4627
Discover the idea behind "Stronger together" that I developed.
Two major things that can prevent your positive thinking:
😞 𝐆𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐬 (the response of harm or distress that comes from losing someone)
😱 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐮𝐦𝐚 (the response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event)
𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 "𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫" 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬.
Check out the Stronger Together course using this link:
👉 Stronger TOGETHER (thinkific.com)
A "Stronger together" is based on finding a person in your life with who you can be supportive and have a mutually beneficial friendship. I started thinking about this concept of "Friend as a therapist" over a year ago as we were getting choice mapping of the ground.
Choice mapping is based on cognitive behavior therapy which is a very solid, scientifically proven type of therapy. This is a way to teach you to identify and organize your brain and make the right choices for the future.
𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐲 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐈 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐚 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐲 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐝𝐲❗
Doing choice mapping with someone who will hold you accountable, and allow you to go through a choice mapping journey will make you mentally strong. It's a different thing than doing it with a therapist or a mentor. As the end product, you will overcome depression, anxiety, and stress. This mind-blowing life hack for safe-care worked for hundreds of people and for me.
Things that prevent you from utilizing my technique:
❌ Being an introvert (You have no close friends)
❌ Being hurt by close friends before (You do not trust too many people now)
If the above sounds like you, here is a piece of advice:
𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭, 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧❗ Relationships are important and we all need a person to talk to about our deepest darkest feelings and not feel judged. It's a mutually beneficial friendship because you are speaking the same language and you probably already know a lot about each other.
A Personal Vision for your relationships matters much more than a New Year’s resolution. This video is a part of a series of Personal Visions. I want to share my personal vision with you and give you a few tips that will impact your relationships in a great way.
𝐌𝐲 𝐠𝐨𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥. 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮❓
Here are a few essential questions you should ask yourself:
🙄 What’s holding me back from having a healthy relationship?
🤔 How do I choose to move forward?
😧 What can I do right now?
🤨 What can I do the next time I meet that person?
I have a general vision of my personal relationship with my grown children. I want to have a genuine, mutually beneficial, healthy relationship. Unfortunately, my adult child is not speaking to me.
If there is a relationship that you genuinely want to be good, then there are some actions that you need to take that are non-defensive.
Personal vision for spirituality is the last video in the series about personal visions and it represents your relationship with God. So far, we talked about visions of where you want to be in specific different categories in your life. In this video, I also revealed some personal issues I was dealing with and how I think God helped me even when I thought he wasn’t there.
We all make personal visions in the beginning of the year. In choice mapping we do it more often because it’s a part of the process. First, we write that personal vision at the top, but then we go down and try to identify the barriers.
✔️ 𝐌𝐲 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐨𝐝
❌ 𝐌𝐲 𝐛𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐛𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐨𝐝
I share the Choice mapping formula and my spiritual struggles because I think there are so many people out there that have given up on God because they felt some pain. They feel like God wasn’t there when they needed him!
Having a genuine relationship with God is still my vision! What can I do now? I can pray and allow myself to talk to God.
Personal vision for weight loss is a part of the series of personal visions. My new year's resolution was to lose weight. In this video I will guide you through the choice mapping journey and reveal some essential tips about weight loss and resolutions.
𝟐 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭:
✔️ somebody notices when you gain or lose weight
✔️ someone tells you that being skinny is beautiful
Can anxiety play a role in gaining weight? Yes, it can! I eat when I am anxious so obviously, that’s playing a role.
Do you think that getting your weight under control will make you happy?
Being happy is a whole other level. Personal vision for weight loss is a good idea, but you need to dig deep and identify the reason behind that. If you are overweight, and it is impacting your health, you should make this a personal vision.
On the other hand, if your weight is within your control, and you feel great, keep enjoying your meals, stay healthy and stay away from unnecessary diets.
This is a whole process of a mentally strong journey and I challenge you to do the whole process because I truly believe that you are mentally strong!
Personal vision for your career is not the same thing as a resolution you have in mind when a new year begins. This video is the first in series of personal visions. I had a strong desire to start with these series since I believe that some of you might find my knowledge and experience useful.
𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲, 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐲 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐰𝐡𝐲❗
Do you feel like you have reached a career crisis?
What is your personal vision for your career or life work?
Do you know how to find a purpose in your life?
The stress of running a business can distract you from achieving what you really want to be. Gaining insight will build confidence, but your personal career vision hinges on understanding your PURPOSE.
To reach your personal career vision and find your purpose; ask yourself:
✔️ Where do you really want to be in your life work or job?
✔️ What are you called to do?
✔️ What are your career desires?
✔️ Who do you want to be?
Knowing what you want will help you create a personal career vision!
As some of you know, I created Choice Mapping. Choice Mapping is a simple and practical formula for mental strength utilizing a Cognitive Behavioral Approach (CBA) that empowers you to identify thoughts, actions, choices, and behaviors for better decision making and empowered choices in the future.
Now, let me share with you an essential discovery that inspired me to talk about personal vision for your career. 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲, 𝐈 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐚 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐝𝐲 𝐈 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐮𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐥.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐲𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐚 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐣𝐨𝐛. 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤. 𝐢𝐭'𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞❗
I have a desire to help people and I am not stressed while doing it. Furthermore, I can do it a lot! My life is about helping people and this YouTube channel is about teaching you what I have learned for 10+ years of doing the choice mapping on myself. I want to be the person who shares a story to help people.
I do not know what your purpose is. The purpose for doing this YouTube channel is to help you and the world to know that we can be mentally strong. Suicide is not an option! I have a video where I already talked about it. Check out the link below:
Share your journey! I would like to hear your experience and perhaps other people will find it useful! You are not alone, stay mentally strong!
___________________________________________
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
___________________________________________
Being mentally strong is a lifetime journey, choice mapping can help you get there!
Choice mapping link:
➔ Stay Connected With Dr. B - Mentally Strong
► Website: https://www.mentallystrong.com/home
► Email: questions@mentallystrong.com
► Office: (719) 493-9555
► Secure Fax: (719) 284-4627
To become mentally strong and easily overcome obstacles, visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
personalvisionforyourcareer #personal career vision #mentallystrong
Dr. B at Mentally STRONG in Colorado Springs interviews a special guest.
She bravely shares her story in the hope that it will help someone else. She had tried 16 different medications for depression and dozens of therapies with no relief, she speaks on her struggle with addiction and how she was able to recover. She knew that if she just kept looking, she would find something that would work. Spravato ended up being the treatment that worked for her depression.
The message: Never Give Up! There will be something, it will get better.
Remember, you ARE Mentally STRONG
mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #selfcare #selflove #motivation #depression #health #mentalhealthmatters #life #wellness #inspiration #healing #mentallystrong
How to defeat emotional eating is the final video on the series on eating disorders, eating disordered behaviors, and diets.
The strongest food cravings hit when you're at your weakest point emotionally. Some people cope with difficult situations by reaching for comfort food.
How do people who are emotionally eating usually feel before they seek for food?
😩 Depressed
😰 Anxious
𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨 𝐚 𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧❗
Carbohydrates, especially sugars and pleasurable foods, increase neurotransmission in the brain which helps anxiety and depression.
The solution depends on the occasion. This video reveals the best way to fight emotional eating at home alone, and also the best way to deal with emotional eating when you are out at an event.
𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐞:
If you are home alone, you need to make a plan to stop emotional eating. Choice mapping, a proven strategy I developed is all about making choices and overcoming mental and eating disorders. You need to think about how you are going to stop emotional eating.
One of the tips I mentioned in the video is to take the pain that you are trying to suppress and instead, feel it! Something is boiling in you and you dig deep down and figure out the triggers for emotional eating and binge eating.
𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝐚 𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭:
If you are trying to manage your anxiety at a social event where there are too many emotional triggers, you need to slow down. In this video, 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐚 𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞❗
What is Anorexia Nervosa? Anorexia nervosa is a mental health concern and an eating disorder in which the person loses more weight than is healthy for their height and age. Anorexics are typically perfectionists.
Anorexia symptoms:
✔️ Low weight
✔️ Extreme restrictive eating
✔️ The anxiety of gaining weight
✔️ Keen desire to be thin
✔️ Fear of eating
Anorexia types: The first type is the restrictive type. The second is the binge-purge type. Binge-purge type shouldn't be confused with bulimia nervosa because the binge in anorexia might be 200kcal while a binge in bulimia can be 2000kcal.
If you want to hear about anorexia nervosa treatment and the hidden health concerns, watch the video!
Do you struggle with Anorexia? Let me know in the comments what do you do to fight against this eating disorder! I would like to hear your experience and other people will find it useful! You are not alone, stay mentally strong!
Orthorexia - How to Recover from this eating disorder?
Orthorexia is an eating disorder that involves an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating.
Are you spending too much time planning meals ❓
Do you pay attention to the number of calories for every meal during the day ❓
Are you following an increasingly restrictive diet ❓
Are you losing weight ❓
𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 video to help you avoid 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞.
Orthorexia Nervosa is not the most famous eating disorder but you should know that it can dramatically affect your health.
Unlike other eating disorders, orthorexia mostly revolves around food quality, not quantity. Unlike with anorexia or bulimia, people with orthorexia are rarely focused on losing weight.
It's perfectly fine to take care of yourself and plan your meals, but sometimes, if you exaggerate, it can have negative consequences for your health. Your effort for living a healthy life and paying attention to what you eat will be wasted. In that case, clean eating becomes unhealthy and creates damage to your body. After some time, it will affect your mental health and strength. There is a way to overcome and beat this eating disorder.
Do you suffer from Orthorexia or do you know anyone who is? If so, comment below and share your thoughts about it. I would like to hear how people are dealing with it.
If you find the video useful, like it and hit the bell button to receive notifications the next time I publish something worth your time. Stay mentally strong!
Bulimia eating disorder involves binging and purging. Binge eating means eating an excessive amount of food within a two-hour period. Purging is a compensation for that binge. If you are struggling with bulimia or you know someone who is, you’ll find this video very helpful!
Bulimia nervosa is one of the most common eating disorders specifically for young women. When it gets a hold of you, oftentimes if goes into your whole adult life even if you are not actively binging and purging.
You get a feeling you want to binge, you lose control, say "oh forget it" and you proceed to compensate. Every time you do that, it affects your health in bad ways!
How many times have you done this?
To beat bulimia, you need to practice control. 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐚 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐬. 𝐈 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐠𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝟏𝟎 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡.
You need to dig deep and ask yourself why did you binge in the first place. What made you do that? What was that feeling? Put that feeling in the middle of the map and find out why that triggered you so much.
The choice opportunity that helped me is about how to practice control. Real control is about stopping your binge in the middle of it. Gain control without going to the opposite disordered type thinking such as orthorexia and anorexia.
The non-diet diet is the best non-diet approach to eating healthy.
Did you know that even if you do not meet the criteria for an actual eating disorder, you might still have disordered thinking or behavior? If you are struggling to lose weight, you might not even be aware of it!
Over the past 20 years, I’ve been struggling to lose weight until I was trying to find a non-diet weight loss. Whenever I thought something might work, it didn’t! That’s when I decided to try something new. I developed a non-diet d.i.e.t.
What does the acronym 𝐃.𝐈.𝐄.𝐓. stand for?
𝐃 – 𝐃𝐢𝐠 𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐩 (We can’t always trust our bodies, so I revealed how this diet starts. Seek answers to my questions because that will help you start this non-diet approach on the right foot. Remember, preparing yourself for this is essential)
𝐈 – 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 (a non-diet approach that helps you have a healthy relationship-mentally and physically-with food. You need to get insightful and intuitive about your eating)
𝐄 – 𝐄𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲 𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 (Yes, you can stay healthy and enjoy your food! This is, for most of us, valuable information because most diets rely on strict principles and there is no guarantee you won’t gain your weight back)
𝐓 – 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐞𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 (I’ve been dieting for over 20 years! I know I am not able to reverse that in 3 months. Use the therapeutic time to go through this process and allow yourself to dig deep, be insightful and intuitive, and enjoy your food.)
𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐍𝐎𝐍-𝐃𝐈𝐄𝐓 𝐃𝐈𝐄𝐓. 𝐍𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧! 𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐮𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐨𝐧 𝐚 𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭.
Choice Mapping is a simple and practical formula for mental strength.
DO I HAVE AN EATING DISORDER?
Besides eating disorders you may also have disordered thinking related to food. Learn about your relationship with food with our series.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
HOW DO WE KNOW WHAT LOVE REALLY IS | WHAT IS LOVE?
The concept of love is so abstract. Love is not a black and white concept. We try to define all the different types and compartmentalize it. Instead we should grow and learn more about it.
We can express love all the time, or as much as we can! You don't have to "love" someone to show them kindness.
You ARE Mentally STRONG
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
In this podcast you will get proven tips on how to deal with toxic family members during the holidays.
Here’s a sneak peek at the questions I answered in this video:
✔ How to prepare yourself for dealing with toxic family members
✔ How to overcome anxiety during family events
✔ How to manage your expectations
✔ How to control yourself and your reaction in front of toxic family members
𝐈𝐧 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭, 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐥𝐥 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐨𝐱𝐢𝐜 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐲. 𝐈 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲 𝐢𝐭.
Dealing with toxic people is never easy. If you are spending holidays with your family and you already know things might go wrong, you need to be prepared. I understand these events can be challenging, emotionally exhausting and overwhelming but remember, there are some things you CAN control.
Your reactions and behavior can be key to making this event more pleasurable and enjoyable or at least bearable. First, you need to understand what’s behind that toxic relationship. Is the reason for that the distance you put between yourself and them or is it something else?
Protect yourself and your feelings by watching carefully my skillful suggestions. Utilize proven tips and deal with any family member regardless of his toxic behavior easily.
If you find the video useful, like it and hit the bell button to receive notifications the next time I publish helpful tips.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
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To get more helpful tips, visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
howtodealwithtoxicfamilymembersduringtheholidays
mentalystrong #drb #toxicfamily
The podcast about thankfulness will boost your mood and confidence and help you identify things to be thankful for in 2020.
Carefully watch the video to find answers to some of the questions below:
✔ How to find what to be grateful for
✔ How to balance through a tough period in your life (2020 has been tough for most of us)
✔ How to be thankful or grateful in those struggles
𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐮𝐬, 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫, 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟎
In short, watching this video will help you find things to be thankful for and bring a sparkle of joy to your life!
Let’s reflect on all the things we are thankful for in 2020. Let’s give thanks to anyone who helped us out this year. Embrace every opportunity and live the life you want. Seek for happiness, joy, and fulfill your mind with happy thoughts.
If you find the video useful, like it and hit the bell button to receive notifications the next time I publish something beneficial or go live.
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫❓ 𝐋𝐞𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬❗
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
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To become mentally strong and easily overcome obstacles, visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
thankfulness #mentallystrong #drb # thankful # grateful #2020 #pandemic
How to love yourself | Mentally Strong
Everyone says we need to love ourselves. This sometimes is easier said than done! Watch to learn how to love yourself, even if you aren't feeling it.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
In this podcast about, Trauma and Triggers, learn to identify your triggers and how to separate your trauma from the triggers, and be a part of change while still working in yourself. You are good enough!
How To Be Mentally Strong.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
In this video about, Trauma and Negative Self Talk, Dr. B discusses identifying how your trauma contributes to your negative self talk and how this identification and organization as well as grieving your trauma can help. If you have survived trauma, you ARE strong! Keep working at the healing process so you can be Mentally STRONGer.
This is the first video, part one, of our trauma series! Stay tuned for the following videos regarding how trauma relates to the Choice Mapping categories.
Choice Mapping makes your Mentally STRONGer!
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
In this podcast about, Trauma and Your Relationship with God, gain insight into how trauma impacts your spiritual life. How To Be Mentally Strong. Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
In this podcast about, Trauma and Substance Abuse. Understanding The Impact Of Trauma. Addiction is complex, it's not just about telling someone or yourself to "stop". Many times trauma will cause someone to seek out substances so that they do not have to feel the pain. There is hope! You can heal from your addiction and trauma. You need to be willing to process that trauma and move forward. Learn in this video how trauma can impact addiction and what you can do about it!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
Relationship Abuse / Domestic Violence - in its many name titles, we must understand that it DOES exist and many people may not understand that there are two sides to this entanglement. Either way, there is no excuse for it. It is not acceptable. But let me try and share a bit of the mental awareness of both sides from my experience.
*If you are in an Abusive Relationship or a Victim of Domestic Violence. Seek Help Immediately:
Domestic Abuse HOTLINE 1−800−799−7233.***
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
In this second podcast of our Trauma series, Dr. B addresses trauma and how it impacts your choices and how you can counteract that with insight. Choice Mapping makes you Mentally STRONGer!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
In this podcast about, What to do when you are just not happy, Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education teaches us how to choose to be happy. Choice Mapping can help you organize your brain and identify the thoughts that are contributing to your feelings of not being happy.
Dr. B has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress. However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
Learn how to use choice mapping to manage your expectations in life! DO YOU KNOW HOW TO MANAGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS IN LIFE CORRECTLY?
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
RELATIONSHIPS ARE A PRIORITY RELATIONSHIP LEVELS FRIENDSHIPS
Relationships are a priority because they are the only thing that lasts forever. You don't always have to cut someone off if things aren't going well in the relationship, meet them where they are and develop healthy boundaries. Working toward having positive relationships no matter what level they are will help you be Mentally STRONG.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
How to love others & create the proper boundaries in your relationships. Love and Boundaries are essential in Relationships.
Do you have grown children? Do you need help with your relationships and holding your family together? It's very important to create healthy boundaries and let go of control in those relationships. Watch to learn more!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
Healthy Relationships create Mentally STRONG kids! One of the best ways is to focus on the relationships that your kids have now.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
In this video learn how do we process information & the world around us? Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Are you empathetic or selfish? Does it affect us emotionally? How do we mentally develop & how does it affect us emotionally? Being an introvert or an extrovert doesn't necessarily mean what you think. Gain insight into the way that you currently process the world and how you can choose how you process. Think about the balance between being empathetic and selfish and how to gain more balance in your life. Choice Mapping makes you mentally STRONGer!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
This podcast is about how you will learn how to control your grief in 2020. How can you learn how to control your grief?
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
Today I'm talking about what is an all or nothing person. Are you an All or Nothing person? All or Nothing thinking is a form of distorted thinking. Learn how to balance your thoughts with Choice Mapping.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
Do you ever wonder what to do when you make a big mistake? Everyone makes mistakes, big ones and small ones. Sometimes it is a behavior, however I want to challenge your belief that it's all your fault. We need to identify and organize how it's affecting you personally so that you can forgive yourself.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
Mental Strength isn't a personality trait, you can teach mental strength! Is your brain normally emotionally charged and connected or compartmentalized? Balancing and organizing your brain will help you be Mentally STRONG.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
Are Your Thoughts Limiting Your Potential? Let's find out how our thoughts can really have an impact on our true potential in life.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
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Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
Today I am talking about, How Do I Know if I have ADD or ADHD? Do you want to know if you have ADD or ADHD? In this video, I explain the things to look for that may be an indication of ADD or ADHD.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
FACE & REMOVE YOUR FEAR AND ANXIETY ONCE AND FOR ALL!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
How to use Anxiety as a Strength -- Anxiety Disorder affects over 40 million adults in the US, and it is one of the most common mental health disorders that we encounter. It is a precursor for depression, and other conditions. Although anxiety is highly treatable, unfortunately, many fail to seek help for their anxiety.
In this podcast, I give you 3 ways you can use anxiety as a strength so that you can begin finding relief from the anxiety that you may suffer from.
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ABOUT DR. B:
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
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Parenting is hard enough without a global pandemic!
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
As a believer, a mother of 7 children, a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend; Dr. B endured tragedy after tragedy: an accidental death, runaway teens, drug use & abuse, prostitution, & a devastating life-changing medical diagnosis impacting multiple family members. Yet, against all odds, they chose to fight and are still fighting - all while choosing strength, faith perseverance, and joy!
Listen to her story, be inspired, and hear how the Mentally Strong Choice Mapping Formula may be able to help you too.
www.mentallystrong.com
The Best Parenting Advice for Every Parent. How do you parent children today? I want to tell you about the #1 Most Important Thing in Raising your Children. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Mother to 7 Kids, I have gathered and experienced parenting advice and I want to offer you what I believe is the MOST important parenting advice for every parent. Hopefully, this will help and empower you to become more confident and happier with your parenting skills going forward. Let's dive in!
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
How do you handle with trust in your relationships? Do you have trust issues? Do you wonder about attachment? Relationships are a priority and we want to empower you and give you the tools to improve your relationships.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
This episode is about Anger and how you can learn to identify the more vulnerable emotion or thought that the anger is trying to protect.
Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
www.mentallystrong.com
HOW TO BE COMFORTABLE WITH YOUR PAST
I want to share with you how to be comfortable in your story and what that even means. I have gone through hardships and my story is difficult for me every day. Being comfortable in your story will help you be Mentally STRONG. Being comfortable does not mean having to tell people your story, it means that you are ready to move forward.
Be sure to download the Choice Opportunity to help you learn how to do Choice Mapping which can help you learn to move forward. I am praying for you on your journey. God Bless. -Dr. B
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
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Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
I want you to make a very serious decision about Suicide today. I want you to understand that Suicide is not an option.
This message is for EVERYONE whether you have thoughts of suicide, know someone that has thoughts of suicide, or just want to be a part of the solution to the high spike in suicide rates recently noticeable in our world today.
Let's make a decision to know that there is another solution.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
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Visit us @ http://mentallystrong.com
SEEKING HELP FOR MENTAL HEALTH IS A SIGN OF STRENGTH
Seeking Help is a Sign of Strength. Know When to Seek Help & Know How to Seek Help. If you are suffering from Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Psychosis, Bi-Polar and other common mental health disorders, or if you are having suicidal thoughts - know when it is urgent or when you should seek a mental health specialist.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D PMHNP (Dr. B) created Choice Mapping for you. Choice Mapping makes you Mentally STRONGer!
Listen as Dr. B shares her personal story of loss and grief and shares three things you can do when grieving the loss of a child.
PROTESTS | BLACK LIVES MATTER | YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO SPEAK UP - I cannot remain silent on this. My heart is hurting as our country and our world continue to experience the results of long-term injustice for African Americans and people of color. I support the Black Lives Matter Movement. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand the protests.
I have a responsibility to respond as well as a personal obligation to respond as a mother to mixed-race children, and being married to a black man. I have to recognize that I have benefited from being privileged in the country and world all of my life, and there is a responsibility for those that have been privileged, to understand that you have to SAY and do SOMETHING to create change and do our best to make the future better. We are not at our best. Black Lives Matter. Let's not just make it a statement. Let's take some kind of action to be better.
How to be Happy. Do you think that you can truly be happy? How can you find happiness today? With over 1 Billion adults and more than 200 Million Children suffering from Depression and Anxiety, it seems as though Happiness is difficult to find. So how can we learn HOW to be Happy? As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who works with people every day that suffer from depression, anxiety, and other common psychological disorders I will share with you 3 Practical Ways you can be happy.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
Do you think you want to get control of your addiction? Can you start today? As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who works with people every day that suffer from addiction I will share with you 3 signs that you are ready to take control of your addiction.
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Dr. Cristi Bundukamara, Ed.D, PMHNP-BC --- A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Doctor of Healthcare Education has experienced unimaginable trials that have caused many feelings such as depression, anxiety, anger, & overwhelming stress.
However, she has developed a new pathway to Becoming Mentally Strong & Choosing to be Happy. With purpose, Dr. B has developed the phases that were refined within the Choice Mapping System that she created and wants to share with you.
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http://mentallystrong.com
Listen as Dr. B reviews a choice map with a special guest around "Independence."
Choice Mapping is described as "a platform to organize your thoughts."
Listen as our guest who is struggling with a terminal disease explains his Thought Map around the feelings of rage.
Join Dr. B and a guest as they discuss how the Mentally STRONG Method can impact sobriety. www.mentallystrong.com
Join Dr. B and a guest as she explains her Mentally STRONG Method journey through feelings of Unworthiness.
Join Dr. B and a guest as she explains her Mentally STRONG Method journey toward becoming Mentally STRONG through Sadness.
Join Dr. B and a guest as she explains her Mentally STRONG Method journey toward becoming Mentally STRONG through Frustration.