Mental Note: Journeys of Health and Recovery

A dangerous secret lurked behind author Lara Jacobs' ambition: she relied on anorexia to focus her writing, blurring the line between artistic drive and self-destruction.  In this episode, Lara shares how years of chasing a story across continents ultimately led her to eating disorder treatment and to rediscovering herself—both as a writer and as a person in recovery. With honesty and hope, she reflects on the pivotal moments that helped her heal, the community that supported her, and how reclaiming her narrative became the most powerful form of self-expression. Now, she teaches others to do the same. Links: Lara's Website: larajacobswriter.com Lara's Instagram: @donotoverink Mental Note Podcast www.mentalnotepodcast.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com     Free Group Support: https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/support-groups    Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199 

Supporting a loved one through eating disorder recovery can feel overwhelming—but you don't have to do it alone. In this special Q&A episode, we sit down with experienced parents Beth Ayn Stansfield and Amy Oberholtzer, who have navigated this journey with their own children and turned their experiences into advocacy. Beth Ayn, now the National Family Advocate for Eating Recovery Center, and Amy, founder of the nonprofit CATCH, share their hard-earned wisdom on self-care, technology, community-building, and trusting the process. Their insights offer guidance, hope, and reassurance whether you're just beginning or deep in the recovery journey. Beth Ayn + Amy's Links: Caregiver Support Groups - For caregivers of either children and teens or adults (Support Groups will be at the bottom of the page once you click the link.)  ED 101 and 201   CATCH CATCH Website Parents Support Network   Chicago area Trusted Professionals    Chasing Childhood Documentary Mental Note Links: Mental Note Podcast www.mentalnotepodcast.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com     Free Group Support: https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/support-groups    Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199   

In a world where mental health care is often seen as one-size-fits-all, Akiera Gilbert is on a mission to break down barriers and open the doors of eating disorder treatment to those often left behind. As the CEO of Project Heal, Akiera leads an organization dedicated to transforming the system while offering immediate, life-saving support to those who face financial, cultural, and systemic obstacles to care. Through her work, Akiera emphasizes the power of community and the need to reimagine healing in ways that honor diverse experiences. In this episode, we explore her personal recovery journey, the realities of accessing treatment, and how understanding social identities is key to providing quality care for all. Join us as we discuss the future of inclusive healing and the incredible impact of Project Heal's work. Project Heal Links Project Heal Website: theprojectheal.org Clinical Assessment: Click Here Cash Assistance: Click Here Insurance Navigation: Click Here Meal Support: Click Here Community Support: Click Here Research and Advocacy: Click Here Mental Note Links: Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: https://www.pathlightbh.com/support-groups Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199 

As an eating disorder survivor turned eating disorder therapist, Carly Compton strives to be the person that she wishes she would have known when she was younger.  That conviction led her on a rewarding journey to become a therapist, model, host of the Recover with Carly Podcast, and creator of an eating disorder curriculum for adolescents. In all these endeavors, Carly focuses on partnering with individuals to give up dieting, recover from disordered eating, and find genuine happiness and acceptance within themselves — no matter their size, race, gender, sexuality, or socioeconomic status. We sit down to discuss the steps that took her on such a liberating journey and also some practical ways you can improve your relationship with your body. Resources: Carly's Website  Recover with Carly Podcast  Body Image Workshop with ERC  Curriculum: Eating Disorder Education and Awareness Her Socials: Tiktok and Instagram  Mental Note Links: Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: https://www.pathlightbh.com/support-groups Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199 

From Chaos to Creativity: Storyteller and artist Landon Bryant explores his journey from struggling with life's basic challenges to finding success and support after an adult ADHD diagnosis. Landon shares how he navigated the difficulties of his condition, including years of trial and error with medications and strategies, and how he ultimately embraced the creative potential of ADHD. This conversation sheds light on the importance of self-awareness, support systems, and the unique strengths that can arise from challenges. His journey is a source of hope for anyone on a similar path. Resources: Get to Know Landon: Instagram @landontalks TikTok: @landontalks  Mental Note Links: Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: https://www.pathlightbh.com/support-groups Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199 

GLP-1 weight loss drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, have exploded in popularity due to their weight-loss potential. But what do they actually do? How do they function? And why are they the subject of so much controversy? With insight from Dr. Elizabeth Wassenaar, Regional Medical Director for the Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center, this episode will empower you to make an educated decision when it comes to your body and these medications. Crucially, we will also focus on how GLP-1s may affect individuals with eating disorders - even if they are being taken as diabetes medication rather than to lose weight.  If you'd like to learn more about GLp-1s from Dr. Wassenaar — and earn CE credits along the way — join Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight's virtual annual conference August 21-23 . Dr. Wassenaar will lead a special discussion on GLP-1s and their relationship to Binge Eating Disorder treatment. Sign up here. Resources: Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com 16th Annual Conference: Register Here Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com  Free Group Support: Register Here Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

Growing up, Vik Chopra was not the kid most people assumed would end up serving a sentence in Federal prison. A student leader with straight A's and numerous volunteer hours, Vik secretly hid pain and shame beneath a shiny outward persona - with disastrous consequences.  Now a filmmaker, actor, and writer who has embraced his queer and South Asian identities, Vik takes us on a transformational journey through addiction, incarceration, and rebirth. His story is a testament to the powers of embracing community, fostering daily practices, and forgiving ourselves.  We encourage you to check out the podcasts and films he is making with justice-impacted individuals. Find them at his website linked below. ___________________________________________ Resources: Website - www.unincarcerated.com Instagram - @vikchopra    Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com  Free Group Support: https://www.pathlightbh.com/support-groups  Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199 

Welcome to part two of our Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Discussion with Leah Young where we focus on the proactive steps you can take to find recovery from a SUD. Today's episode is all about what to do once you realize you have a problem with substances or addictive behaviors. We'll discuss topics like: Different strategies for ending destructive behaviors spanning from abstinence to harm reduction How to develop boundaries to enable healthier behaviors Easy ways to measure the success of your approach If you missed our last episode, you can easily find it in your podcast feed or by clicking the link in the show notes below. You don't necessarily need to listen to Part 1 to understand Part 2. However, you may want to pull it up if you are trying to figure out whether or not you have a substance use issue. Resources: Brief video overview about Substance Use Disorders from the Center for Disease Control: Click Here Infographic: 2022 Survey on Drug Use and Health - Click Here Book: Sober Curious by Ruby Warrington - Click Here Podcast: Sober Curious with Ruby Warrington - Click Here Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com  Free Group Support: https://www.pathlightbh.com/support-groups  Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199  Nearly all substances and many addictive behaviors have 12-step meetings. Below are some examples, but you can search online for the national and local chapters nearest you.  www.aa.org www.marijuana-anonymous.org www.thesira.org - Self Harm www.slaafws.org & www.slaa4poc.neocities.org - Sex and Love Addicts www.recoverydharma.org www.smartrecovery.org www.celebraterecovery.com www.lifering.org www.moderation.org Plus many others that may not be as well known, available, and/or regional 

In our next two episodes, we will explore a disorder affecting nearly one in five Americans - Substance Use Disorder (SUD). From knowing when your patterns are problematic, to building new neural pathways, to measuring success - we want to dig deep. And we've got the incredible expertise of Leah Young to show us why there's so much reason for hope when dealing with addictive behaviors and substances. You can think of today's podcast as Substance Use Disorder 101. It answers the questions, “How do you know if your use of alcohol or drugs is a problem?” and “Are you exhibiting problematic addictive behaviors?” We will cover topics like Early warning signs Denial Sober curiosity Next steps for getting support.
 Our second episode will examine recovery models for SUD - abstinence, moderation, and harm reduction - and how to know what works for you. Resources: Brief video overview about Substance Use Disorders from the Center for Disease Control: Click Here Infographic: 2022 Survey on Drug Use and Health - Click Here Book: Sober Curious by Ruby Warrington - Click Here Podcast: Sober Curious with Ruby Warrington - Click Here Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com  Free Group Support: https://www.pathlightbh.com/support-groups  Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199  Nearly all substances and many addictive behaviors have 12-step meetings. Below are some examples, but you can search online for the national and local chapters nearest you.  www.aa.org www.marijuana-anonymous.org www.thesira.org - Self Harm www.slaafws.org & www.slaa4poc.neocities.org - Sex and Love Addicts www.recoverydharma.org www.smartrecovery.org www.celebraterecovery.com www.lifering.org www.moderation.org Plus many others that may not be as well known, available, and/or regional 

Close relationships set the tone for how we experience love and security. Yet, keeping those relationships healthy is rarely easy. Fortunately, Attachment Theory researchers have spent decades scrutinizing why we connect the way we do and what actions help make friendships, partnerships, and family bonds flourish. For therapist, mama, and author Eli Harwood - aka Attachment Nerd - her journey into understanding attachment patterns was deeply personal. Her early life programmed her to believe that she could not consistently rely on her needs being met. As an adult, this belief severely impacted her ability to connect with others, prompting Eli to find the best tools for healing and growing new attachment patterns. She benefited from that growth so much that she spent the past 17 years inviting others to discover how fun and stress-free this transformation can be. Today's show is all about understanding basic Attachment Patterns, how they affect our relationships, and how we can enjoy becoming more secure parents, friends, and humans.  Resources: Website - Click Here Instagram - @attachmentnerd  Podcast - Click Here  Book - Securely Attached - Click Here Free webinar - Click Here 2 Minute Attachment Quiz - Click Here Collection of coaching tips - Click Here Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com  Free Group Support: https://www.pathlightbh.com/support-groups  Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

Today, we investigate Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) - a diagnosis that can be as confusing as its name suggests… But fear not! We are lucky to have Dr. Michelle Jones as our guide. As a clinical psychologist who studied ARFID since it first became a diagnosis, she's uniquely qualified to distill years of research into succinct explanations. Together, we unpack all the fascinating ways ARFID affects our relationship with food, plus what to do if you or someone you love is diagnosed with it.  Resources: Book - Guide for Parents and Carers by Rachel Bryant-Waugh ARFID information: videos, resources, and treatment options - Click Here Quiz if you think you or a loved one have ARFID - Click Here  Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: eatingrecoverycenter.com/support-groups Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

One chilly Maine morning, enveloped in a snowed-in cabin, musician DW sat at a piano recording a melody that had just popped into his brain. As he played, the phrase “I deserve to be well” tumbled out of his mouth in song.  He immediately broke down in tears asking, “Wow, do I really believe this?” That question, and the ensuing album he created with his band The Collection, fueled an artistic journey to make sense of depression, the stigma of psychiatric medication, and asserting self-worth.  We sit down with David to hear his mental health story, why he chose to share it publicly, and enjoy a special performance of two new singles from The Collection's upcoming album.  _________________________________________________________________________________ Resources: David's Links The Collection's Website: www.thecollectionband.com TikTok: @thecollectionband Instagram: @collectionband Link Tree: linktr.ee Mental Note Podcast & Mental Health Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: eatingrecoverycenter.com/support-groups Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

The end of the calendar year packs a lot into a short amount of time and it can be easy to deprioritize your mental health in all that noise. One of the best ways to refocus on your values is to remember the ways you've grown this past year.  So to honor the journey of 2023, we created an audio mural using six short stories from listeners and past guests. Storytellers focus not only on specific challenges but also on how they have built resilience, fostered mental health, leaned on therapy, and tapped into community. Ultimately, these collective vignettes whisper a comforting reminder that we are not alone and that hope is stronger than defeat.  Storytellers Alex  Carrie Zhang Eric Dorsa Gloria Jen Ponton Shay  Resources: Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: eatingrecoverycenter.com/support-groups Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

Today's episode is all about giving you an incredibly practical tool for navigating emotion-focused conversations anywhere and with anyone. To do that, we've invited Dr. Allison Chase to walk us through Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT for short). Mostly, we will focus on Emotion Coaching - a skill that creates shortcuts between two very different parts of the brain. The results are powerful and can help you and your loved one feel connected and empowered rather than confused and upset. It's important to note that Dr. Chase discusses EFFT skills in the context of a caregiver's relationship with someone battling an eating disorder, but you can take EFFT skills into any relationship that gets sidetracked by intense emotional outbursts - be they at work, home, or out in the world.  Resources: Dr. LaFrance's book: What to Say to Kids When Nothing Seems to Work: A Practical Guide for Parents and Caregivers Free Self-guided EFFT Learning Series  EFFT Basics: Video Mental Note Podcast Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center Eating Recovery Center Navigating the Holiday Season with Resilience & Community Support Group Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199 

Have you ever been told that you're too emotional? Or felt the need to hide your heart in order to be accepted and productive? Community builder and writer Nōn Wels can relate. As a sensitive kid growing up in an environment that didn't always feel safe, Nōn learned to guard his heart so that nobody could find their way in. This led to a lot of pain and struggle: substance abuse, an eating disorder, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and depression. Along the way, Nōn realized that empathetic communities play a crucial role in finding wholeness, love, and nourishment. As a result, he started creating projects and groups designed to empower each of us to grow our capacity for empathy, vulnerability, and emotional curiosity.  Today, we talk with Nōn about the journey that prompted him to create the Feely Human Collective and why we should even care about empathy and community in the first place. __________________________________________ Resources: Nōn's Website  Feely Human Collective  You, Me, Empathy (Nōn's Podcast)   Mental Note Podcast  Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center Eating Recovery Center Free Group Support  Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

Have you ever wondered why our culture treats fat and fat bodies with such vehement scorn? What about the experiences of people who are fat? What does it mean to exist in a thin-obsessed society?  With humor, personal stories, and research Aubrey Gordon & Kara Richardson Whitely - two fat authors and storytellers - explain how the world works differently for people depending on their size. Along the way, we talk about the unintended and sometimes deadly consequences of weight stigma in the medical world as well as what you and I can do to end weight discrimination.  Resources: Campaign for Size Freedom   Aubrey's Website  Kara's Website  Maintenance Phase Podcast  Mental Note Podcast Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center  Eating Recovery Center Free Group Support Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

Have you ever noticed that you simply notice more? Therapist, author, consultant, and Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) April Snow wants you to know that you are not alone. In fact, the genetic trait responsible for Sensory Processing Sensitivity - aka what makes HSPs more attuned to the world around them - is present in 20% of individuals, regardless of gender. It can be both a superpower and an Achilles heel. And that's why we are so excited to talk with April. April built her career by helping highly sensitive individuals move beyond feelings of overwhelm and guilt to discover the best parts of being more aware of their surroundings. Together, we examine HSP Characteristics, misconceptions, and how to thrive as a highly sensitive person. ___________________________________________________________________________ Resources: April's Website - aprilsnowconsulting.com April's Instagram - @sensitivetherapist HSP Self-Test - Click Here Mental Note Podcast: mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: pathlightbh.com Eating Recovery Center: eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: eatingrecoverycenter.com/support-groups Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

Have you ever felt like the real you - the one that exists deep, deep down - is not aligned with how you live your life? What would it be like to let the true you break free? That's why we created today's podcast. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Moe Ari Brown has spent his career helping others live their most authentic lives. He is one of the leading mental health experts in the realm of Transgender Identity, with a keen understanding of the intersectionality of race, gender identity, and spirituality. And he's here for a discussion about Radical Authenticity - what it is, how to find it, and who it is for. So join me, my delightful co-host Eric Dorsa, and Moe Ari as we focus on discovering radical authenticity and learning to love ourselves while accepting the world around us. ________ Resources: Moe Ari's Website: theemoeari.com Moe Ari's Instagram @loveoutproud Be Your Own Love Goals Podcast: lovegoalspodcast.com Eric Dorsa Instagram: @fkdrag Mental Note Podcast: mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: eatingrecoverycenter.com/support-groups Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

Mario Gonzalez moved to the United States when he was only three years old as the son of undocumented immigrants who followed seasonal harvests up and down the West Coast. As a result, his childhood was filled with constant change, insecurity, & financial stress.  Determined to build a life of greater stability, Mario chose to focus on school and finding a legal foothold in the US. His path has been one of bravery, heartbreak, and determination. You won't want to miss it! Today's episode - in collaboration with the podcast I Know Lonely and non-profit Only 7 Seconds - explores Mario's upbringing, how he manages clinically diagnosed anxiety and depression, and what empowers him to stay present as his legal status remains unresolved. ___ Resources: Help with loneliness and isolation: only7seconds.com  I Know Lonely Podcast: only7seconds.com/podcast  Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center Website: www.pathlightbh.com  Free Group Support: www.pathlightbh.com/support-groups  Free evaluation with a trained Pathlight therapist: (877) 850-7199 Mario's Instagram: @mariogonzalez.co

Dave Vrablik's lifelong habit of emotional eating never felt like a serious problem. That is, until one heartbreaking phone call five years ago… Upon receiving news about the death of his beloved older brother, Dave's occasional compulsive eating quickly morphed into uncontrolled binging. All of a sudden he was enveloped by Binge Eating Disorder. Dave's discovery and treatment of the eating disorder sent him on a five-year journey - one that highlights the importance of community as well as what we all should know about America's most prevalent, yet under-diagnosed, eating disorder.  _______________________________________________________________________________ Links: Binge Eating Information: Click Here Virtual At-Home Treatment for Binge Eating Disorder: Click Here Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: Click Here Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

For more than 10 years Kaylee Kron has walked alongside the bereaved, companioning them and honoring the memory of their lost loved ones. In a culture that treats death and grief like they are contagious, she is a wise guide prompting us to reevaluate that fear.   This compassion and insight did not come easy. It grew out of personal tragedy - the unexpected death of a partner and a tumultuous path back to peace. She now works tirelessly to showcase the rich world of grief and why we should embrace it rather than hide from the pain.  On today's episode, we discuss: Kaylee's story Common misconceptions about grief The do's & don'ts of talking about loss The life-altering power of recognizing loss with your community __________________________________________________________________________________ Resources: Kaylee's Links & Grief Education Kaylee Kron's Website: www.the-grief-coach.com  Workbook for Families in Grief: Purchase Book Here Instagram: @the.grief.coach whatsyourgrief.com Companioning Model: About Four Tasks of Mourning: About Mental Note Podcast & Mental Health Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: eatingrecoverycenter.com/support-groups Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

Right as therapist KC Davis gave birth to her second baby, Covid-19 began shutting down normal life. Not only that, but KC had just moved to a new city, her husband began a demanding new job, and pandemic restrictions caused their carefully planned support system to crumble.  All of a sudden it was just her - and her two babies - home alone. Everyday.  In the chaos that ensued, KC began an unexpected new journey. From grappling with mental health barriers to becoming TikTok famous and writing a best-selling book - KC has ventured out on a quest. Her goal? To connect the dots between mental health and the daily care tasks we tend to take for granted.  So on today's episode, we'll talk with KC about the last few years - focusing specifically on the ADHD diagnosis that answered so many questions about her past. Along the way, we will learn her signature workarounds for completing tasks that feel impossible. __________________________________________________________________________________ Resources: KC Davis KC Davis' Website: www.strugglecare.com  Struggle Care Podcast: Listen How to Keep House While Drowning: Purchase Book Here TikTok: @domesticblisters    Instagram: @strugglecare Mental Note Podcast & Mental Health Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: eatingrecoverycenter.com/support-groups Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199  

American culture praises weight loss. A quick scroll of social media, magazine racks, or even the news will yield numerous “transformation” stories documenting how a fat person turned their life around by shedding pounds.  But at what cost? Today, we're exploring an eating disorder so camouflaged, you probably didn't even know it exists - Atypical Anorexia. Or, more accurately, anorexia in people with larger bodies. With our guide - recovery advocate Joanna Nolen - we will unpack how fatphobia impacts the medical system, insurance, and even treatment centers. Plus, Joanna will share her most practical wisdom about navigating this weight-loss-obsessed world as a person in recovery living in a larger body.  ____________________________________________________________________________________ Resources: Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: eatingrecoverycenter.com/support-groups Free Evaluation with a Trained Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

Beyond the rush and noise of the Holiday Season, hides an amazing treasure - the passing of stories and wisdom from our elders. And we're not just talking about tales of the good ol' days from grandparents! Because an elder is simply someone who's gone before you, no matter their age. So, to celebrate this special time of year, we are featuring short stories from some of you - the elders in our community who have already walked the road of recovery. We wanted to know how you have integrated recovery into your homes and living spaces. Each featured response is brief. Our hope is that they spark your imagination to consider ways that home might become a partner instead of an opponent to mental health. Many thanks to Kara Richardson Whitley, Ashton Grooms, Jen Ponton, Jane Zeltser, Patrick Devenny, Tony Wilson, Niki Dubois, Chris Henry, Ivy Watts, Katie Kittredge, & Jayne Mattingly for sharing. Resources: Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: www.pathlightbh.com/support-groups  Free Evaluation with a Trained Pathlight Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

As a teenager, Kea Yamamoto's behaviors transformed from being respectful, creative, and empathetic to ones that alienated the people she cared most about. Not only did she lash out, but she also stopped sleeping, began hallucinating, and felt immune to consequences.  Kea's eventual diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder proved to be both a relief and a frightening look into the unknown. Would she be able to enjoy the relationships and experiences that make life worthwhile? Or would she move deeper into isolation and pain? Today's episode - in collaboration with the podcast I Know Lonely and the non-profit Only 7 Seconds - explore's Kea's 10-year journey towards a fulfilling life. We cover how she mended relationships, what dating with a Bipolar diagnosis was like, and why she decided to become a mother despite the hereditary nature of her disorder.  Resources: Help with Loneliness and Isolation: only7seconds.com  I Know Lonely Podcast: only7seconds.com/podcast  Mental Note Podcast: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center Website: https://www.pathlightbh.com/  Free Group Support: https://www.pathlightbh.com/support-groups  Free Evaluation with a Trained Pathlight Therapist:  (877) 850-7199

Discover how your personality can be both your biggest asset and greatest stumbling block on today's fascinating episode.  When Dr. Laura Hill first encountered research showing that a person's temperament - the baked-in personality traits dictated by their genes - dramatically influences the type and expression of their eating disorder, she was thrilled. For decades, she had felt that eating disorder treatment only focused on external behaviors, while ignoring root causes. But through brain-based research, she was finally able to see how and why disorders begin growing in the first place. This excitement compelled Dr. Hill to devote the next ten years of her career to working alongside colleagues and patients in developing the first-ever eating disorder treatment focused on genetic traits. The result? Temperament Based Treatment with Supports - TBT-S for short. Influenced by Dr. Hill's playful and inquisitive spirit, this approach promises thrilling possibilities for long-term recovery.  Resources: Our Website:  www.mentalnotepodcast.com Free mental health assessment: (877) 850-7199 Her Book - https://amz.run/61EQ  Dr. Hill's TED Talk: Eating Disorders From the Inside Out: https://ytube.io/3WsY  Video of Wire/Re-Wire Activity: https://ytube.io/3WsZ  Three levels of TBT-S training from tbtstraining.com Level 1 Training - https://bityl.co/F0f7 Level 2 Training - https://bit.ly/3STzrMe Level 3 Training - https://bit.ly/3CmHfPz Eating Recovery Center Website: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Free Group Support: eatingrecoverycenter.com/support-groups

Suicide is one of those words that stops us in our tracks. Often, we treat it tenderly — acting like saying it too loudly will inspire someone to do something awful. But the truth is that not talking about suicide is what actually increases the chance a person with suicidal thoughts will act on them.  So how do you have such a loaded conversation? Well, it helps to get advice from people who've been there before. September is Suicide Prevention Month and in recognition of that goal, we reached out to the experts on dialoguing about difficult mental health topics - an organization called Hope for the Day. Hope for the Day is a non-profit movement empowering conversations on proactive suicide prevention and mental health education. While based in Chicago, their resources are global. Their whole approach focuses on peer-to-peer led conversations that are guided by clinical oversight. It's incredibly effective. So today, I'll speak with five members of their team about tools, programs, and mindsets that can help prevent suicide in the communities we love.   Also, be sure to check out our resources list below for an abundance of ways to get the help you or a loved one may need.  Resources: Hope for the Day's Website: www.hftd.org A searchable, international list of resources for suicide prevention and mental health help:  www.hftd.org/find-help The Things We Don't Say Program: www.hftd.org/get-educated/learn-more Project R.E.D. Team: www.hftd.org/red-team Identity & Orientation Resources: www.hftd.org/lgbtq Proactive Workplaces Program: www.hftd.org/proactive-workplaces Free Live Educations via Zoom or In-Person: www.hftd.org/events E-Learning On-Demand Education: www.hftd.org/e-learning/requestform Emergency Resources: National Suicide Prevention Hotline: Dial 988 Mental Health Emergencies: Dial 911 and say, "I need an ambulance, at this address, for a mental health crisis." Our Show's Resources: Our Website:  www.mentalnotepodcast.com Free mental health assessment: (877) 850-7199 National Suicide Prevention Hotline: Dial 988

Researching anxiety and mood disorders can be daunting - and deciding who is credible and what research holds up under scrutiny is even harder. That's why we made today's episode! Welcome to our little one-stop-shop-overview of the basics for anxiety and mood disorders. We'll spend this episode asking an expert in the field the most common questions about anxiety disorders, mood disorders, the treatment experience, and treatment methods. Sound good? Dr. Howard Weeks will be our gracious question answerer. He is the Chief Medical Officer at Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center. Most importantly, he has a special way of communicating complex information that brings clarity rather than getting lost in the weeds. Since this episode is a little longer than our typical show, we've included time stamps for different subjects below. Subjects Timestamps Anxiety 2:20 -15:00 Types - 6:00  Generalized Anxiety Disorder Phobias OCD PTSD Panic Attacks Getting help - 10:30  Treatment Options Is Recovery Possible? Mood Disorders 15:00 - 29:30 Overview - 15:15  Depression Mania Genetics Getting help - 22:35  When to Get help Hotlines Support Groups Is Recovery Possible? Treatment 29:30 - 42:00 Overview - 29:30  Acute Residential Partial Hospitalization Intensive Outpatient Virtual Intensive Outpatient Traditional Outpatient Pathlight - 34:30  What Sets it Apart? What Treatment Looks Like Age Categories Insurance Resources: Our Website:  www.mentalnotepodcast.com Free mental health assessment: (877) 850-7199 National Suicide Prevention Hotline: Dial 988 Pathlight Behavioral Health Center Website: www.pathlightbh.com Free Group Support: www.pathlightbh.com/support-groups Family Involvement Link: Family Resources

Four years ago Jayne Mattingly discovered something was seriously wrong with her health. Not only was she starting to see a loss of mobility, but physicians told her these physical limitations would only progress for the rest of her life. For this former dancer and self-described “doer,” losing mobility was devastating news. Jayne leaned heavily on the wisdom she'd cultivated earlier in life when recovering from anorexia to cope with her uncertain future. Today, we'll talk with Jayne about shifting the relationship with her body. From feelings of anger and betrayal to a place where gratitude can exist alongside grief. She'll reveal a few of her best strategies for living a values-centered life while also grappling with her own ableism and chronic illness. 
 We'll also chat with Eating Recovery Center Nutrition Director Kathryn Johnson about mindful movement for different ability levels. ________________________________ Mental Note Podcast is brought to you by Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center and Eating Recovery Center. If you'd like to talk to a trained therapist or learn more about their programs and free support groups, please call them at (877) 850-7199 or visit our website mentalnotepodcast.com Resources: Recovery Love & Care: https://bityl.co/DCHD  The AND Initiative: https://bityl.co/DCHI Jayne on Instagram: https://fbook.cc/3ywA  Our Website:  www.mentalnotepodcast.com Virtual Treatment:  www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/virtualcare  www.pathlightbh.com/virtualcare  Free mental health assessment: (877) 850-7199

Lor Sabourin knows a thing or two about resilience and the power of thoughtfully approaching a relationship - be it with a sport or gender. A professional rock climber who grew up in Detroit, they spent years figuring out how to not hide their queer identity in a very male, heteronormative, and competitive world. Lor now works to spread the wisdom they've gathered by creating affirming spaces in outdoor communities and also training other climbers on mental stability. They are also the subject of a recent documentary film put out by Patagonia called They/Them.  We invited Lor  to talk about their personal journey, creating inclusive spaces, and how to simply find more Joy in the lives we choose. We also hear from Sand Chang, PhD (They/Them) about the relationship between our society and mental health trends in the Queer Community.  RESOURCES: Our Website:  www.mentalnotepodcast.com Free mental health assessment: (877) 850-7199 Trans Lifeline: A crisis hotline staffed by all-trans operators (877) 565-8860 The Trevor Project: a resource specifically for LGBTQ youth in crisis FEDUP Collective: Support and education for people with marginalized bodies who have disordered eating National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network The Gender Affirming Letter Access Network - Find a free provider who will write letters to help you receive gender-affirming healthcare.

Growing up, Carrie Zhang - the founder of The Asian Mental Health Project - felt as though she had no right to talk about her mounting struggles with sadness and anxiety. 
You see, her parents - two immigrants from China and Taiwan - could simply not understand why their child might be unhappy. After all, they had sacrificed so much in order to give her a chance at prosperity and success. As a result, Carrie did not find help processing trauma, depression, and anxiety until much later when her university offered mental healthcare services. She now spends her time aiding other Asian Americans to overcome cultural and systemic barriers to mental health through the Asian Mental Health Project.  In this episode, we talk with Carrie about her personal awakening to mental health hygiene, the cultural stigmas & institutional bias preventing the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American community - APIDA for short - from receiving the help they need, and finally what we all can do about it. 
 Resources: Our Website:  www.mentalnotepodcast.com Free mental health assessment: (877) 850-7199 Asian Mental Health Project Instagram:  @AsianMentalHealthProject OCA National: OCANational.org  

At the beginning of 2020 Mackenzie Carmichael flew to Eating Recovery Center in Denver, Colorado determined to finally overcome a persistent eating disorder. The plan was to slowly step down from residential treatment to an outpatient program where she would commute to therapy and meals several times a week as her healing progressed.  However, the growing pandemic soon placed extra restrictions on that traditional outpatient model. So, her treatment team pivoted and instead recommended attending ERC & Pathlight's Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (VIOP).  In today's episode, we'll explore Mackenzie's experience doing treatment from her family's home and discover how VIOP impacted her recovery. We'll also speak with Brandi Stalzer, Director of Eating Recovery Center's virtual treatment program to better understand what goes into the patient experience.  ________________________________ Mental Note Podcast is brought to you by Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center and Eating Recovery Center. If you'd like to talk to a trained therapist or learn more about their programs and free support groups, please call them at (877) 850-7199 or visit our website mentalnotepodcast.com Resources: Our Website:  www.mentalnotepodcast.com Virtual Treatment:  www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/virtualcare  www.pathlightbh.com/virtualcare 

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses suicide On March 11, 2005, Kevin Berthia became famous…For all the wrong reasons.

 As he stood on an exposed pipe - with only the wind holding him up from plunging into the waters below San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge - a photographer captured Kevin discussing his desire to attempt suicide with Sergeant Briggs of the California Highway Patrol. That photo landed on the front page of the San Francisco Chronicle the very next day.  Today, Kevin's perspective is much different than 17 years ago. Rather than contemplating the end of his life, he now speaks up for mental health and suicide prevention with a message that has made it around the world. We sit down with Kevin to take a wild ride through his story and the serendipitous events that lead to becoming a nationally renowned storyteller. Along the way, we'll also chat with Dr. Thomas Joiner of Florida State University about depression, suicidal thoughts, and available tools to get help today.  If you or a loved one is in crisis, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK, or the Crisis Text Line (Text TALK to 741741) or to talk to someone who can help.
 Mental Note Podcast is brought to you by Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center and Eating Recovery Center. If you'd like to talk to a trained therapist or learn more about their programs and free support groups, please call them at (877) 850-7199 or visit our website www.mentalnotepodcast.com RESOURCES  Our Website:  www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com Kevin Berthia Foundation: www.kevinberthiafoundation.org Documentary mentioned in the episode: https://bityl.co/BDhP  

So perhaps your child - or even you or another adult - is really particular about food and refuses to eat but you just cannot understand why. You can tell their mealtime anxiety is not normal but how do you know if it adds up to a full-blown eating disorder?  That's why we made today's episode. It's an introduction to one of the least understood eating disorders - ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder). ARFID remains underdiagnosed and can even be dismissed as simple picky eating. But ignoring it can have deadly consequences. So join us as we cover the basics about ARFID and the next steps needed for getting help: taking action, talking to doctors, and understanding different approaches to treatment. ________________________________ Mental Note Podcast is brought to you by Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center and Eating Recovery Center. If you'd like to talk to a trained therapist or learn more about their programs and free support groups, please call them at (877) 850-7199 or visit our website mentalnotepodcast.com Resources: List of ARFID Resources:  www.eatingrecovery.com/arfidresources Our Website:  www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com

Picture this: a warm July breeze stirs my hair as I sit on the back porch. My toddler, illuminated by moonlight and the twinkle of fireflies, gently spins in circles, hands waving in the air as she moves to the strumming of a guitar mixed with the call of cicadas in the trees. It's the sort of moment that feels infinitely removed from the typical noise of daily life. Here, there are no email alerts, traffic jams, or checklists. Only laughter and contentment. So, at the start of this new year, I'm asking, “how do I get more of these moments and less of the hamster wheel? How can I stop living on other people's terms and tune in to my inner voice?” To explore these questions, I can think of no one better than the strummer of the guitar from that moonlit summer night - my friend and 71-year-old neighbor - Vollie McKenzie. Vollie is a man of many outlets. He spent over 40 years as a mental health professional, plays tennis daily, and is a known performer in the Southeast. He also has a recovery journey of his own that includes life-long struggles with anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphia. I invited him on the podcast to talk about the process of finding his own voice and how that intersects with his mental health journey. Along the way, Vollie will sing and play pivotal songs to guide the narrative. ________________________________ Mental Note Podcast is brought to you by Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center and Eating Recovery Center. If you'd like to talk to a trained therapist or learn more about their programs and free support groups, please call them at (877) 850-7199 or visit our website mentalnotepodcast.com Resources: Our Website: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Eating Recovery Center: www.eatingrecoverycenter.com

What do you do when prayer is not helping your depression but actually making it worse?  For author and speaker Abraham Sculley, answering this question and finding lasting freedom from his mental illness meant rethinking and challenging a lot of the ideas he grew up believing. But this son of Jamaican immigrants knows how to persevere. Join us as we explore Abraham's transformation into the person he is today — a mental health advocate with a special passion for showing how accessing mental health care doesn't mean going against your faith. ______ Also, be sure to check out Abraham's book and podcast! Links are in the resources list below. Mental Note Podcast is brought to you by Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center. If you'd like to talk to a trained therapist or learn more about their specialty track for OCD, depression and trauma, please call them at (877) 850-7199. Resources: Our Website: www.mentalnotepodcast.com Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center: www.pathlightbh.com  Abraham Sculley's Website: www.abrahamsculley.com  Abraham's Book: Unlearn The Lies: A Guide to Reshaping the Way We Think about Depression - Purchase Here  Abraham's Podcast: Unlearn The Lies Podcast - Listen Here

Here's the thing about sleep - one in three American adults simply do not get the sleep they require on a regular basis. That's not ok! Sleep deprivation kicks off a cascading series of consequences for our physical health, relationships, sense of self, and emotional stability. But finding our way to a better night's sleep is no easy task - that's why we created this episode. We speak with two people about reigning in sleepless nights. First, we meet paramedic Sydney Fitzgibbons who finally recovered from chronic insomnia. Second, we sit down with Dr. Karima Clayton - a professor at NYU and sleep expert who works with veterans in New York to overcome sleep disorders. Through Dr. Clayton, we'll learn the 8 steps of sleep hygiene and why getting better sleep is crucial to a well-rounded life.  Sponsor:Mental Note Podcast is brought to you by Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight mood and anxiety center. If you'd like to talk to a trained therapist to see if treatment is right for you, please call them at (877) 850-7199. Resources: 8 Sleep Hygiene Suggestions + Timestamps: Mind the caffeine consumption - 18:50 Designate the bed as a sleep-only zone - 19:55 Find a sleep routine that winds you down - 20:40 Follow consistent times for both falling asleep and waking up - 21:00 Sleep space ambiance - 24:26 Mindfully Move your body but keep it relaxing if you like to be active before bed - 25:25 Avoid napping if possible - 26:10 Get out of bed if you can't sleep - 27:45 mentalnotepodcast.com

Kim Gould Fry is on a mission to help restore your relationship with your body and introduce you to intuitive movement - no big deal, right? Her approach focuses on both physical and mental health through training and partnering with fat and large-bodied instructors, offering counseling that connects mind and body, and creating resources like the free “Essential Guide to Enjoying Exercise” We sat down with her and one of her favorite barre instructors, Natalie Sanders, to talk about what it takes to enjoy body movement outside of diet culture. Sponsor: Mental Note Podcast is a creation of Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight mood and Anxiety Center. Reach a trained therapist at (877) 850-7199 Resources: Website: www.autonomytherapyatx.com Autonomy Resource Page:  https://autonomytherapyatx.com/favorite-reads Intuitive Movement Masterclass e-course: https://courses-autonomymovement.teachable.com/p/debunking-movement-myths24 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autonomytherapyatx/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutonomyTherapy Natalie Website: https://www.bodyposibarre.com/ Natalie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodyposibarre/  

At first, Mimi Cole couldn't understand why she was so terrified of going to hell. She did all the right things, prayed often, and continually confessed sins but her fears only got worse. Pretty soon, she also began obsessing about accidentally running someone over with her car - what was going on?! Just as she started to feel crushed by cascading illogical behaviors, she received a diagnosis - OCD - and began working with a treatment team to get her life back. Now, this North Carolina grad student has taken her experiences and used them to spread mental health awareness as a social media influencer and clinician in training. We talk with Mimi about her journey and also hear from Dr. Charles Brady about what happens to someone with OCD and what treatment options are available to help people find recovery. Sponsor: Mental Note Podcast is a creation of Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight mood and Anxiety Center. Reach a trained therapist at (877) 850-7199 Register for their online annual conference: www.pathlightbh.com/event/pbh-conference Resources: Website: www.mimi-cole.com Instagram: the.lovelybecoming Website (Dr. Brady): www.kitsapocd.com

With infection rates falling and vaccination rates rising in the United States, it seems like the summer has almost returned to normal. But maybe it's easier said than done… What are ways that prolonged loneliness and isolation may affect us? What self-knowledge can we glean from the worst pandemic in 100 years? Dr. Zach Rawlings will guide us in taking a deeper look at the various ways people respond to loneliness + solitude and how those responses influence our post-pandemic mental health. Sponsor: Mental Note Podcast is a creation of Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight mood and Anxiety Center. Reach a trained therapist at (877) 850-7199 Register for their online annual conference: www.pathlightbh.com/event/pbh-conference Resources: Website: www.zachrawlings.com

Have you ever felt the need to hide your true self? Shame, fear, and self-hatred are powerful forces, and breaking free from them is worthy of the grandest party you can imagine. In celebration of pride month and the joy of self-expression, we're sitting down with choreographer and recovery advocate Ryan Walker Page to share his story of coming out, shedding shame, and finding recovery. Along the way, Ryan invites us to reconsider the parts of ourselves we are the most ashamed to reveal. In fact, he counts those "imperfections" as the precious source of wisdom that catapulted his successful career into working with people like Lil Nas X, Renee Zellweger, Samuel L Jackson, and many many more. In Ryan's world, coming out isn't just a singular event, but a beautiful lifelong unfolding. Sponsor: Mental Note Podcast is a creation of Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight mood and Anxiety Center. Reach a trained therapist at (877) 850-7199 Register for their online annual conference: www.pathlightbh.com/event/pbh-conference Resources: Website: https://www.ryanwalkerpage.com/

Jen Ponton possesses seemingly boundless energy:  Most known as the fiercely feminist fat activist 'Rubi' on AMC's critical darling Dietland, she is an award-winning actress and body liberation activist. With a television resume that includes 30 Rock, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Orange is the New Black, Law and Order: SVU, The Blacklist, and Blue Bloods, she also starred in the late Ash Christian's body-positive romantic comedy, Love On the Run. In 2020, she delivered the TEDx Talk "Hollywood's Fatphobia Problem." She also hosts All the Fucks, a storytelling podcast about caring too much. On top of all that - she's simply wonderful to spend time with. With quick wit and relatable storytelling, she has the rare ability to communicate hard truths while also not taking herself too seriously. She sits down with host Ellie Pike to discuss Fatphobia, activism, Hollywood, and practical ways to push back against the marginalization of fat people.  Links: www.jenponton.com www.mentalnotepodcast.com _____________________ Mental Note is a creation of Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center. To speak with a trained therapist for free to see if treatment is right for you, call (877) 850-7199 Register for the all virtual annual conference below: REGISTRATION LINK  

It’s no secret that a lot of us are uncomfortable with the shape and size of our bodies -thanks in no small part to the $72 billion dollar a year weight loss industry devoted to the thin ideal. Even most health care providers will ask patients to drop weight if their BMI is above "average." But why? The Health at Every Size movement - HAES for short - invites us to reconsider our obsession with weight and instead focus on health behaviors. HAES principles seek to advance social justice, create an inclusive and respectful community, and support people of all sizes in finding compassionate ways to take care of themselves. But what do those principles look like in daily life?  To cut through a lot of the misinformation out there, we’ve invited Meredith Nisbet, L.M.F.T., C.E.D.S. to answer some of our most common questions when it comes to body size. HAES Resources: HAES Website Database of HAES aligned businesses and medical providers Social Media Accounts: @thenutritiontea @bodyimagewithbri @colleenmwerner @therapywithmere Meredith Nisbet Therapy Resources: Eating Recovery Center (877) 850-7199 Insight Behavioral Health (877) 850-7199

In our last episode, Dr. Charlynn Small and Dr. Mazella Fuller took us through some of the history and impact of the mental health profession’s relationship with the black community. While that episode helped set the context for today’s conversation, you can also listen to this episode as a stand-alone podcast. Today is all about exploring practical tools for becoming more inclusive and equitable in supporting mental health. We hope it gives you some ideas for growth! Sources: mentalnotepodcast.com Dr. Mazella Fuller Bio Dr. Charlynn Small Bio Treating Black Women With Eating Disorders: A Clinician’s Guide Treatment Assessment Hotline: (877) 850-7199

How does the history of race impact your mental health? To get a better idea, we’re spending the next two episodes with Dr. Mazella Fuller and Dr. Charlynn Small - two leading thinkers on Black mental health. Today’s show is all about the history and definitions of Black mental health. Part 2 will focus on how to make change happen - whether you’re part of the Black community or not. It will feature practical tools to evolve the mental health community by making it more equitable and inclusive. Sources: mentalnotepodcast.com Dr. Mazella Fuller Bio Dr. Charlynn Small Bio Treating Black Women With Eating Disorders: A Clinician’s Guide Historical Sources “Historical Attitudes on Black Mental Health” Virtual Presentation for Virginia’s Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services (DBHDS) Karen Sherry, Ph.D. Curator of Museum Collections, Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) ksherry@virginiahistory.org

Rachael Steil formed an early and joyful bond with running - she loved the movement, competition, and exhilaration it gave her. Yet, within a decade, her drive for perfection demolished that love and replaced it with isolation, an eating disorder, anxiety, and health issues.  Now - as a running coach, author, and speaker - Rachael runs towards being an "imperfectionist". This new practice has transformed her relationship with both herself and the up-and-coming athletes she now coaches. 

Before Colorado Public Radio's Vic Vela launched his own podcast about overcoming adversity, he faced a crippling substance use disorder that threatened to end his career, relationships, and even his own life.   But Vic found a way out and he's here to walk us through the journey. We are also joined by clinician Leah Young to show us how finding recovery is attainable for anyone open to professional help.  _______ To find more Mental Note Podcast episodes, visit our website: mentalnotepodcast.com Vic's Back From Broken Podcast can be found here. Our show is sponsored by Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center. To receive a free assessment from a trained therapist, call 877-411-9578. 

We’ve all been there: Adult brings child a meal. Child refuses to eat it. Everyone’s anxiety spikes and an epic standoff ensues. Sound familiar? Most of us probably assume that fighting over what kids eat is normal. Not according to Keira Oseroff of The Ellyn Satter Institute. She claims that kids of all ages should be able to feed themselves…and thrive! Doubtful? We were too. So, we sat down with Keira to hear all about how to avoid the dinner table battle of wills and transform the whole family’s relationship with food in the process. Sidenote - this is not an episode about eating disorders. Rather, it’s about everyone’s relationship with food and how to build a more joyful connection to our plates. We’ll unpack what intuitive eating is, why Keira emphasizes the evidence-based Satter Feeding Dynamics Model + Eating Competence Model, and practical steps to make mealtime more enjoyable. LINKS: The Ellyn Satter Institute Keira’s Bio  Mental Note Podcast 

Racism. Equity. Diversity. Inclusion. Bias. Bullying. These are all buzz words that we continue to hear and use in everyday life—but what do they mean?  Dr. Seria Chatters has an incredible personal story of resilience. As an African American with albinism and visual impairment, she managed to rise above persistent bullying to earn a Masters and PhD in Counselor Education. She is now a Director of Equity and Inclusivity and adjunct professor in Pennsylvania.  In this episode, she will teach us how to reign in our own micro-aggressions and outright racism even when we are not aware of their existence. Dr. Chatters will be a featured panelist at the upcoming 12th Annual ERF Conference on Mental Health on Sept 11 & 12. Mental health professionals can earn up to 34 CE credits. To learn more, visit erfcon2020.com. Mental Note is brought to you by Eating Recovery Center and Insight Behavioral Health Centers. Mental Note Podcast ERF Conference on Mental Health Eating Recovery Center Insight Behavioral Health Centers

Gloria Lucas decided to name her mental health awareness and body positivity organization after the Spanish slang term for a big booty - nalgona. She began Nalgona Positivity Pride after her own eating disorder struggles left her feeling like professional resources ignored her experience as a Xicana with indigenous heritage. Rather, it all felt geared towards white Americans. What about people of color? Is recovery not for everyone? Join us as we trace Gloria's journey to create a place of healing for communities suffering from generational trauma and cultural exclusion and racism. Discover ways to support both yourself and the people around you.  Nalgona Positivity Pride Sage and Spoon Support Group Mental Note Podcast  Eating Recovery Center

Kim Offner grew up with a best friend under the same roof — her sister Kristy. The two remained close all the way up into early adulthood when their dynamic took a tragic and confusing shift. Kristy fell into a losing battle with opioid addiction. Her family had no idea where to find the right help.  In today’s episode, we hear the often forgotten story of family members loving someone with substance use disorder. Kim shares about loss and healing, what she wishes she knew about addiction treatment at the time, and how she honors her sister today. Also featuring Linda Lewaniak, Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Certified Advanced Addictions and other Drug Counselor with over 25 years experience. Resources: SAMHSA - www.samhsa.gov Reveal from The Center for Investigative Reporting - https://bit.ly/3c82oOd Insight Behavioral Health Centers and Eating Recovery Center — (877) 411-9578 for a free consultation  Our website – mentalnotepodcast.com