MYLAR- My Look At Recovery: Recent Episodes
Heather Croas
Refocusing on our mental health. Understanding that we are all living in recovery from something in our lives. And Restoring the voice of those who it’s been taken from.
We are joined by local poet, Deanna Repose Oaks who I had the pleasure of a meeting at a local Open Mic night about a month ago. She currently she has 5 published books that are available for purchase, including her latest one Don’t Go ; Stay which she is selling as part of fundraiser for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline!. Join us as Deanna shares a little about her own story and we discuss how we have both found our voice through art, and the healing process that comes along with that.
And for more information about Deanna Repose Oaks, including where to find her books, please be sure to check our her Linktree for more information.
And as always, if you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.
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This is the recorded audio from our 4th Annual Fighting the Darkness Panel Discussion. It is far past time we started talking about mental health and suicide in open and honest discussions without the fear and stigma attached. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the US affecting people of all ages. It is currently the second leading cause of death for ages 25-34 and the third leading cause for ages 15-24. In an effort to create more awareness and fight the stigma associated with suicide the entire month of September is Suicide Prevention Month. It is our goal to raise awareness about suicide prevention and the path to recovery with Fighting the Darkness - an art exhibition and panel discussion event in our community.
I want to give a huge shout of thanks to everyone who helped make this event a success, especially those who joined me on this year’s panel:
Larry Grawey who served as moderator. Morgan Pickering who provided the perspective of both a first responder as well as suicide attempt survivor. April Bailye who was able to share her experiences as a therapist/crisis counselor. Tina Spellman, who in not only a former guest on this podcast but also provided the perspective for the church as both a pastor) and principle at a school local private Christian school. Vicki Damico who shared her experiences as a suicide loss survivor and I was provided my own perspective by sharing my experiences as a suicide attempt survivor. Also want to be sure to thank the ever amazing Robert Grawey for his quick turn around on the audio so I could get the podcast episode out the next day (which is our usually scheduled episode).
If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.
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Joining us today is Stephaine Marshall, LPC as we continue the conversation we started in the previous episode about the impact of technology on our mental health. Not only the negative aspects but also how it can be used to improve access of care to those who may not otherwise be able to seek professional help. Especially in our post-COVID world.
If you have questions, would like more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.
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We often hear about the dangers of technology, especially for our youth, and the importance of limiting screen time. Today Pastor Larry & I look at the progression of technology and examine the impact it has had on our personal lives and mental health.
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Today we are joined by Tina Spellman, the principle at the Living Way Christian Academy, and we continue the conversation about the importance of mental health in the school system.
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Traditionally, mental health has not been a priority - especially for kids. Thankfully, that is beginning to change and with each generation, and it’s starting to become more of the priority it should be. Today Pastor Larry and I talk about our experiences - especially our school experiences - in regard to bullying and how things have changed over the past 30 odd years.
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Today we get to have a candid conversation about the stigma associated with mental health in the minority cultures and ways we can all work together to try to push past it.
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Today Pastor Larry and I discuss the similarities be racism and ableism and how both impact the stigma associated with mental health, especially in the minority communities.
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Words Are Hard was originally published as photo essay in January 2021, for people who deal with mental health challenges as well as their families. It was designed to help them overcome the daily stigmas regarding mental illnesses. Using pictures to illustrate my own personal journey the goal is to communicate thoughts that words are just too limited to explain.
In May 2022, we started an annual event based on the photo essay as a way to create a discussion centered around increasing the understanding of mental health recovery, showing the differences between mental health vs. mental illness and helping others understand how to better support those who are struggling. This was our 3rd year doing the event and the goal of was to bring the much needed awareness to the blindness of society regarding the stigma that people living with mental illness face on a daily basis. At the same time, offering suggestions of an approach that identifies people as people and not their diagnosis.
The event was recorded live, the video of which will be available on YouTube in the coming weeks, and this is the audio of the discussion we had. Unfortunately we forgot to take the handheld microphone out into the audience so some of the sound quality may be a little rough in spots but we still wanted to provide those who were not able to make it the opportunity to be a part of the discussion.
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May is Mental Health Awareness month and this will be our 3rd year presenting the Words Are Hard roundtable discussion on mental health on May 13. In this episode Pastor Larry and I discuss the upcoming event and what we hope to accomplish with it.
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Back in March, I had the opportunity to speak as part of a panel on living with a disability at the Together: Ignite Conference. Afterwards, I had several people wanted to speak with me, which is still a bit of a shock to be honest. But one of those people is our special guest to Amanda Burgos, the mom of a million kids. Sadly, Pastor Larry was out of town when we recorded this episode but Amanda & I had an amazing conversation about some of the challenges associated with mental health and parenting, including the parenting foster children.
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Over the years we have learned to talk more openly about mental health. Today Paster Larry & I explore the importance of teaching kids mental health as a parent, or other adult role model.
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Episode 5: Exploring Boundaries
Today we have the pleasure of sitting down with “Podcast Pete” Kane, host of the Kennesaw Happenings Podcast we were started our conversation about the importance of boundaries and effective communication and then finished it here.
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Communication can be difficult at times. Especially for those who have a hard time reading body language and picking up on various social cues. Today Pastor Larry and I talk about some of the challenges that can occur when trying to communicate with others, especially when people function in the “ever always listening” mode which sometimes causes well-meaning people to provide irrelevant support to others who may or may not be in crisis.
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Today we are joined by a very special guest, Kathy Lathem from Cobb Senior Services. In this episode we talk about the importance of community and the services available for the “Senior” population in Cobb County, Georgia while also working to debunk some of the myths and stigma surrounding aging and the senior community in general.
If you would like to get more information about the services provided by Cobb Senior Services you can contact: Kathy Lathem
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According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), the 4 major dimensions of recovery are health, home, purpose and community. In today’s episode Pastor Larry and I focus on the importance community and finding a sense of purpose and how the impact our mental health.
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We all experience obstacles and challenges in life and sometimes those come with a setbacks that can detail our progress. In this episode we talk about the importance of managing expectations of ourselves and others and how it impacts our mental health.
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In our final episode of Season 3, Pastor Larry and I continue our conversation about self-care and other strategies to survive the additional stress the holiday season often brings. Especially for those who have a strained relationship with their family or perhaps aren't able to get home to spend time with their loved ones.
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We are joined again by our 2 special guests, Jennifer Grawey and one of the film bros from the “Recently Logged” podcast Micah Grawey as we continue our conversation on the way media portrays mental illness in television and movies, both the good and the bad. Especially the way it often helps to perpetuate stigma associated with mental health and mental illness.
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One of the most common troupes in horror movies and tv show is that the villain and/or serial killer is living with a mental illness. The problem is that this helps to perpetuate stigma associated with mental health and mental illness. This month we have a 2 special guests joining us, Jennifer Grawey and one of the film bros from the “Recently Logged” podcast Micah Grawey. Together we explore the way media portrays mental illness in television and movies, both the good and the bad.
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For those who weren't able to join us on September 13, 2023 for the Fighting the Darkness Panel Discussion on Suicide Prevention and awareness here is the video of the live event that was recorded at The Venue on Main in Kennesaw, GA. The goal of this in-person event was and is to shed light on the importance of mental health and raise awareness about suicide prevention. Our panel of experts shared valuable insights, personal experiences, and strategies to combat the darkness surrounding this sensitive topic. Please share this video with other and let's fight the darkness and support one another!
Also please feel free to reach out or leave a comment below if you would like more information about this event or if you would be interested in having me come speak to your group. For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.
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We all have our own breaking point, that place where life becomes overwhelming and may have trouble coping. For some, myself included, the use of unhealthy coping skills such as self-harm in an attempt to regain a sense of control or to numb the pain. All too often it can also lead to suicidal ideation and attempts when you no longer see a way out.
It's far past the time we start talking about suicide. Our goal is to create an environment where people feel comfortable talking about it without the shame attached. To start looking at suicidal ideation and self-harm from a different perspective to help eliminate the stigma associated with mental health struggles.
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Today we are joined by 2 amazing guests from the Kennesaw Parks & Recreation Department. Join us as we have a conversation about some of the amazing programs they offer, way to get involved in the community and how doing so helps not only the community but ourselves as well.
For more information about the Kennesaw Parks & Recreation Department be sure to follow them on Facebook or Instagram
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Community service and recreation and both great ways to build connections to your community. In this episode we discuss how serving others helps with our mental health and the benefits of recreation to our overall health.
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Join is and our special guest Brandon Nichols, the lead pastor at Mercy Hill Church, as we continue our conversation about the connection between mental health and spirituality. We explore the role of the church and how it can help create a sense of community and also ways that the church can better assist those who are struggling.
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Regardless of your spiritual beliefs, there is evidence to show that religion and spirituality can have a positive impact on our health. In this episode we explore how the church and mental health are connected and can provide a sense of community that has helped in my own personal journey.
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Episode 11- Together We Care
Navigating through life with a disability can be overwhelming at times, especially when it comes to finding community resources. Our special guest Jillian Palmiotto, the founder and executive director for Together We Care shares with us some of her experiences working in the system and provides.
To learn more about Together We Care and the services they provide be sure to check out their website: Together We Care
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Humans are hardwired to live in community but there are times when connecting with others can be difficult. In this episode explore how the importance of connection and the difficulties some have in finding their place of belonging. Especially in our post-pandemic lives.
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According to the CDC, more than 50% of people will be diagnosed with some type of mental illness or disorder in their lifetime. The also state that 1 in 5 adults will experience a mental illness in a given year and 1 in 25 of adults are living with a significant mental illness such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or major depressive disorder. (CDC Stats)
Words Are is based on the photo essay of the same name and the goal is to help people overcome the stigma related to mental illness and to help show the importance of connection and community.
Proudly sponsored by Eaton Chiropractic
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It is important that we all learn to recognize that while mental health and mental illness are two sides of the same coin the terms are not interchangeable. In today’s episode we are joined by our special guest, Dr. Cris Eaton Welsh, and have a conversation about the importance of mental health in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month.
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Whether it’s appreciating the displayed works in a gallery exhibit or participating in community theater, art has the ability to connect us to one another in a variety of ways. In today’s episode we are joined by one of the members of the Kennesaw Art and Culture Commission, Robin Thornhill, who discusses the role art has played in her own life.
To learn more about the Kennesaw Art and Culture Commission be sure to check out their website: KACC
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Long before I was comfortable expressing myself with words I learned how to share my thoughts and feelings through art. In this episode Pastor Larry & I discuss how art and creativity connect to our mental health.
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Episode 5- Role of Supportive Employment
Often times people with disabilities find it more difficult to find employment because they are often dismissed. There also tends to be the misconception that someone who is living with a development disability or mental health condition is incapable of being productive and an asset to employers. Today we sit down with Linda Jones, a Career Specialist with Briggs&Associates, to help dispel these misconceptions and gain a better understand the role of supportive employment.
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Often times employment can provide us with a way to feel like a contributing member of society, especially for those of us living with a disability. In this episode Pastor Larry & I discuss the connection between mental health and employment and the importance of finding our purpose.
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Most people recognize the importance of taking care of our bodies but maintaining both is necessary for our overall health as often one has an impact on the other. Today we are joined by Brandon Browne, LPC, and Katherine Taylor, M.D. from Mind & Body Christian Health Group as we continue our conversation about the connection between mental and physical health importance taking care of our bodies as well as our minds.
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For more Information: Mind & Body Christian Health Group
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Often times people remember to take care of their physical health while ignoring their mental health without recognizing how the two work together. In this episode Pastor Larry & I cover the basics of how they affect one another in preparation for our next episode when we will have a special guest from Mind & Body Christian Health to continue the conversation.For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.Contact Us.--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/green-phoenix/message
Welcome to Season 3 of the podcast formerly known as MY Look At Recovery. With the new year Pastor Larry & I decided to make a few changes to better reflect the overall goal of this podcast which is to help people gain a better understanding of mental health, recovery and the importance of connecting with others.
In this episode we talk a little about the reasons behind the name change and explain a few of the other exciting updates we’ve made for the upcoming season, including a small adjustment to the schedule. Moving forward new episodes will be available on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month to better accommodate the new schedule. I hope you will join us and if you’re new to the podcast be sure to catch up on some of the older episodes so you can join us on this exciting journey.
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In our final episode of Season 2, Pastor Larry and I continue our conversation about self-care and other strategies to survive the additional stress the holiday season often brings. Especially for those who have a strained relationship with their family or perhaps aren't able to get home to spend time with their loved ones.
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People tend to think that self-care is about pampering or treating yourself to things. But it’s more than that. Self-care is an important part of our overall wellbeing. In this episode, Pastor Larry Grawey and I define what self-care is, explore the different types, and explain why it’s important.
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Our experiences help define our beliefs. This in turn creates the filter we use to process information. In this episode, Pastor Larry Grawey and I talk about what negative messages are and how they impact our lives. We also explore ways to help change our internal filters and work with others to improve their self image.
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What is “Toxic Positivity” and why is it dangerous? According to Psychology Today, “toxic positivity is the act of avoiding, suppressing, or rejecting negative emotions or experiences.”
In this episode Pastor Larry Grawey and I take a look at a few examples of toxic positivity and how word choice can impact people differently.
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Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the US affecting people of all ages. It is currently the second leading cause of death for ages 25-34 and the third leading cause for ages 15-24. In an effort to create more awareness and fight the stigma associated with suicide the entire month of September is Suicide Prevention Month. On Wednesday, September 14, 2022 at Desktop Coworking Community in Kennesaw, Ga., we hosted Fighting the Darkness - an art exhibition and panel discussion with the goal to to raise awareness about suicide prevention and the path to recovery. This is the audio recording from that presentation, the video can be found at: Fighting the Darkness
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In honor of National Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month, Pastor Larry and I will be continuing our open and honest conversation about some of the myths and stigmas surrounding suicide. It can be a very difficult topic to discuss, but the way we choose to talk about mental health can change lives. It is important to discuss suicide and it’s prevention as that is the only way to eradicate the stigmas.
Here are some additional resources to help as well:
https://www.bethe1to.com
https://afsp.org
https://suicidology.org
https://www.samhsa.gov
For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.
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In honor of National Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month, Pastor Larry and I will be having an open an honest conversation about some of the myths and stigmas surrounding suicide. It can be a very difficult topic to discuss, but the way we choose to talk about mental health can change lives. It is important to discuss suicide and it’s prevention as that is the only way to eradicate the stigmas.
Here are some additional resources to help as well:
https://www.bethe1to.com
https://afsp.org
https://suicidology.org
https://www.samhsa.gov
For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.
Contact Us.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/green-phoenix/message
Pastor Larry Grawey and I have been exploring the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-9; Luke 8:4-15) and how it relates to recovery. We started with the seed that fell on the footpath and how it illustrates the resistance to change. Next we examined the seed that fell among the rocky soil and the importance of having a strong support system. Then we talked about the seed that fell among the thorns and the parallel to the distractions that interfere with our growth. In our last episode we talked about the seed that fell into the good soil and how to recognize growth even through the rough patches. In this episode we wrap up the series with a quick overview of the Parable of the Sower and how it relates to growth, recovery and our everyday lives regardless of a person’s religious beliefs.
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Over the last few episodes we have been looking at how the lessons taught in the Parable of the Sower can be applied to recovery. We started with the hard soil which is representative of the unteachable spirit. Then we looked at the rocky soil and saw the importance of developing a strong foundation to help support us when we face the obstacles that can leave us feeling discouraged enough to give up. In the last episode we talked about the thorns and other weeds that sprout up and create distractions that prevent us from moving forward. Today we are going to focus on the good soil and the elements that are required to help us grow, especially those elements we’d rather avoid.
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We have been examining the Parable of the Sower and how the lessons apply to our every day lives. First we looked at the seed that fell along the footpath and how it represented a resistance to change. Next, we explored the seed that fell among the rocks and how easily it can be to get discouraged without a strong support system in place. In this episode we discuss the seed that fell among the thorns which inhibited their growth. Join Pastor Larry and I as we dig into ways to push past the distractions that all too often work against us as we work toward moving forward with our goals.
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How often in our own lives do we find ourselves getting excited about something only to give up later when it gets to be too difficult to continue? In our last episode we started exploring growth using the Parable of the Sower as a life lesson focusing on the “Rocky Path” and the resistance to change. In this episode we continue the conversation by looking at the next part of the story, where the seed fell on the hard soil and grew but then quickly died because it wasn’t able to establish strong roots. Join Pastor Larry Grawey and I as we explore ways to help work around the rocks we face as we walk through life.
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The overarching theme for this year is growth. Over the next few episodes we are going to explore what that looks like using the Parable of the Sower as a life lesson. In this episode we focus on the “Rocky Path” and look at how to navigate through those situations in life where we’re confronted with a resistance to change, either in our own hearts or when interacting with others.
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Please join us for our conversation with the Kennesaw Chief of Police, Bill Westenberger about mental health and recovery.
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We have been discussing the 5 Stages of Recovery over the last 3 months. In this episode we provide a recap and explore each stage in a little more detail.
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We have been exploring the 5 Stages of Recovery over the last few months and in this episode we examine the last stage, “Actions for Change.”
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Over the last 2 months we have been breaking down the recovery journey and showing how it applies not only to living with a mental illness or disability but how it can apply to various situations that occur during the course of one’s lifetime. We started with the “Impact of Illness” and discussed how these events can change the way a person views themself. Then we examined the “Life is Limited” stage and showed how the loss of hope and lead to people to a dark place. In last week’s episode, we focused on the “Change is Possible” stage and how to protect the spark of hope. In this episode we continue the conversation and look at the “Commitment to Change” stage.
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We are continuing our conversation about the 5 Stages of Recovery and in this episode we are focusing on the “Change is Possible” stage. It’s during the stage when you start to recognize that things can be difference and the small spark of hope is ignited.
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Episode 9: Lost Hope The focus of our second quarter of this podcast is to breakdown the recovery journey and how it applies not only to living with mental illness or disability but how it can apply to various situations that occur during one’s lifetime. During one of the first episodes of this podcast, “Recovery Defined,” I gave a quick overview of the 5 Stages of Recovery as they had been taught to me during my training to become Certified Peer Specialist in December 2014. In our last episode we started by exploring the “Impact of Illness” stage, and how often it can feel like you have lost your identity when faced with the diagnosis of a mental illness, a debilitating injury, or any other major life event that can change how you view your life. In this episode, Pastor Larry and I will explore the second stage, “Life is Limited” looking at it from a different perspective while also understanding the difficulties that can come when it feels like you’ve lost hope. This episode may difficult for some as there is discussion of living with suicidal thoughts and self-harm. If you, or anyone you know is struggling with these thoughts please reach out for help at Lifeline or call 1-800-273-8255 For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on a future episode please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. Contact Us.
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During one of the first episodes of this podcast, “Recovery Defined,” I gave a quick overview of the 5 Stages of Recovery as they had been taught to me during my training to become Certified Peer Specialist in December 2014. Over the course of the next 3 months we are going to break it down a little further and focus on one stage at a time. It will be a combination of the information I received but also what I’ve learned over the last few years through lived experience.
In this episode, Pastor Larry and I will explore the first stage, “Impact of Illness” and discuss how often it can feel like you have lost your identity when faced with the obstacles of life. Whether it be the diagnosis of a mental illness, a debilitating injury, or any other major life event that can change how you view your life.
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I changed it a bit at the end especially - so make sure it still says what you want
We have officially wrapped up the first quarter of Season 2. And in this episode we do a quick recap of acting with a purpose. Our plan for this “bonus” episode was to have a special guest but unfortunately, we weren’t able to coordinate our schedules so he will be joining us for our Second Quarter Bonus Episode on June 29, 2022.
In this episode, we decided to give you a quick preview of what we will be covering during the next 3 months. We look forward to continuing our discussion of these topics as we explore more about the recovery journey.
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Over the last few months we have been talking about the how to act with purpose. The conversation started with the importance of defining your “Why” and creating realistic goals. Then we talked about the value of having a strong support system in place to help with accountability. In our last episode we continued the discussion taking about how to deal with setbacks.
In this episode, Pastor Larry Grawey and define the differences between setback and obstacles and ways to overcome both..
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Over the last couple of months we have been focusing on how to act with purpose. We started with the importance of defining your “Why” and how to create effective goals. Then we continued the conversation by discussing the importance of putting action to your goals and having people in your life to help you accountable.
In this episode, Pastor Larry Grawey and I talk about how to overcome the obstacles that life throw our way.
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Acting with a purpose requires a lot of hard work and can be difficult at times. The first step is to define your “Why” and creating effective goals. Then it’s time to start putting action to your goals. But how do you stick with it once you’ve gotten started? In this episode we continue the conversation and discuss the importance of having people to hold you accountable to your goals.
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For the first quarter of 2022 we decided to focus on acting with purpose and goal setting. We started with the defining your “Why” and the importance of setting realistic goals. In the last episode we talked about the importance of finding a team to support you in reaching them. In this episode we continue the conversation and discuss how to start working toward achieving your goal. Specially the importance of putting action to your goals by simply getting started.
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Creating goals and working toward them is an important part of living a life in recovery. In this episode, Pastor Larry and I talk about how to create effective goals and the importance of having a team to support you in reaching them.
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Welcome to Season 2 of MY Look At Recovery. It’s officially a new year and a time when many people recommit themselves toward making positive changes in their lives that all too often fall to the way side by the end of the month. So how can we change that?
In this episode, Pastor Larry Grawey and I talk about the importance of Defining your “Why” and the importance of setting realistic goals.
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The holiday season can be a stressful time for people. Especially for those who have recently lost someone they care about, have a strained relationship with their family or perhaps aren't able to get home to spend time with their loved ones. In today's episode Pastor Larry Grawey and I discuss different strategies for remembering self care to help get through the holidays. But we also provide some suggestions on how to help those in your life that you notice might be struggling.
This episode will wrap things up for Season 1 and 2021 but we look forward to coming back in the new year. For more information about the Green Phoenix or if you'd like to join me as a guest on an episode in 2022 please don't hesitate to shoot me an email.
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Pastor Larry Grawey and I continue our conversation about understanding the importance of connecting with others and building relationships. At the core of these is the importance of communication. In this episode is we focused on understanding non-verbal communication and recognizing that we don’t always get it right, which is ok as long we also learn to acknowledge it.
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This episode is a continuation of the conversation we started on October 6 about understanding the importance of connection and building relationships. Today Pastor Larry and I discuss the importance of building trust and understanding boundaries in relationships, especially when dealing with a crisis situation. As always, our goal is to encourage others to have an open conversation about mental health, recovery and suicide prevention.
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This episode is a continuation of the last. Today I was joined by Pastor Larry Grawey to continue our conversation on the importance of communication and our focus is more on prejudice and unconscious bias. And as always, we want to encourage people to have an open conversation about mental health recovery.
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The format of this episode is a little different but the goal is still the same, to encourage people to have an open conversation about mental health recovery. Today I was joined by Pastor Larry Grawey who asked me to share part of own story and we will be continuing the conversation in the next episode.
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There are times when communicating your needs can be more difficult than others, especially during difficult times. Earlier this year I was fortunate enough to find someone who was able to help me create an easier way to communicate my needs when I struggle to find the right words.
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Joined by Pastor Jennifer Grawey we discuss building connections and the 2 photo essays she helped me edit. The first one, "Words Are Hard" was published in January 22, 2021 and the second one, "Friendship: Making Connections" was published on September 1, 2021. For those who are interested in checking them out they can both be found on Amazon: Words Are Hard and Friendship: Making Connections
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I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Bree Jackson, the executive director and founder of Puzzle Pieces of Love which is a local and virtual Support and Advocacy Group for families with children on the Autism Spectrum. We discussed the various challenges of supporting those who live on the spectrum, including the limited resources available for adults. For more information about Puzzle Pieces of Love please be sure to visit her You Tube Channel: Why? Puzzle Pieces of Love
For more information on support groups and information on Autism Spectrum Disorders:
National Federation of Families: https://www.ffcmh.org/
Georgia Parent Support Network: http://www.gpsn.org/
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I lost my father on November 5, 2020, and have had a rough time finding a way to grieve and process the loss so I decided to do the most logical thing I could think... take a cross country road trip to visit my Uncle Colin (dad's youngest brother) who I hadn't seen since I was a little kid. Growing up I spent a good number of summers driving cross country with my mom and siblings, usually because we were moving from one state to another, and it has had been a life long goal to drive across the US on my own. I learned a lot along the way about myself, my family and life in general and wanted share some of my insights with you.
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I recently got the opportunity to sit down and talk with Kristin Joy Dillon about how art has helped in her own recovery journey. She is an expressive mixed media artist in recovery. She uses painting and drawing for wellness-focusing on mindfulness, processing emotions and spirituality. She also teaches creative wellness workshops and hosts splatter paint parties.
For more information about Kristen, go to www.kristinjoyart.com
https://www.facebook.com/kristinjoyart/
https://www.instagram.com/kristinjoyart/
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I've learned a lot about life through running and wanted to share some of the insights I had after my last 5k on June 5, as I prepared for my cross country road trip to meet my uncle for the first time in close to 40 years.
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I got the opportunity to meet with Carol Coussons de Reyes, the founder and president of Mission Zer0 which provides resiliency skills to parents and guardians of youth, and youth themselves. In this episode we covered a variety of topics related to youth suicide including their Survivor Camp which offers youth social emotional skill building opportunities.
For more information about Mission Zer0 please check out their website: www.missionzero.net
And as always if you have questions, comments or you'd like to join me on a future episode please don't hesitate to reach out to me: recovery.artist2019@gmail.com
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We all have our own Breaking Point. That place where life becomes overwhelming and may have trouble coping. For some, myself included, it leads to suicidal thoughts and/or attempts. It's far past the time we start talking about it and with the episode my goal is to create an environment where people feel comfortable talking about it.
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The terms mental health and mental illness are often used interchangeably but they actually two separate things. While everyone has mental health and we all need to take care of it, not everyone who struggles with their mental health has a mental illness. Understanding the difference can help fight the stigma associated with both.
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Understanding recovery can be challenging at times. In this episode we will discuss the "5 Stages of Recovery" model and I will use examples from my recovery journey to help explain what recovery means to me.
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Growing up we were taught that words couldn't hurt us. But the reality is words have far more power than most people realize.
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