My Crazy Life and How I Got Through It

In this episode, I talk about how stress has impacted the lives of Americans in 2023. Stress is at an all time high in the country. Many people do not know how to deal with stress effectively. As a nation, the impacts of stress and trauma has defined an era. I talk about some ways to mitigate stress and I speak on the importance of seeking help for any thing you may be dealing with. If you are dealing with any type of trauma or stress, it is important to speak up and to speak out. Support the show

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I talk about psychotropic versus psychedelic treatment for mental health disorders. Being properly treated for your disorders is very important. There are many different factors that can contribute to how you receive medication assisted therapy and treatment. I talk about the importance of being treated and how you can decide which type of medication is right for you. If you are in need of treatment please reach out to a mental health professional in order to get the treatment you deserve. Support the show

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I talk about the role of genetics in mental health. Many mental health disorders can run in families and having a family member with a certain disorder can put other members of the family at risk. That means that certain disorders can be a family trait. In this episode, I talk about some of those disorders and I also talk about different ways you can seek help if you are dealing with mental health disorders while not having proper assistance.  Support the show

In this episode, I talk about the the impact of trauma on mental health. Trauma can make you very vulnerable to developing mental health disorders. It directly has a correlation with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety just to name a few. Knowing how to handle traumatic situations and these disorders are very important. I talk about the impact and trauma and ways to deal with it. Support the show

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I talk about balancing life, family, and work. Balancing your life is very important. There are many different factors that come along throughout the day and it is important to know how to handle them. Not knowing how to handle these factors can induce stress, anxiety, and may trigger depression. Managing your life and family can really help with these disorders and help the individual. Support the show

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I discuss the importance of mental health screenings. Mental Health screenings are not an actual test but, there has been a rise in mental health disorders lately. The brain is the body's command center and routine check-ups should be common place.  I discuss the importance of screenings and signs that you can look for. Your mental health should be just as important as your physical health. Support the show

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I discuss setting healthy boundaries on social media. Social Media has revolutionized how communicate and how we connect with one another. Social Media has changed the way that millions of people live their lives on a day-to-day basis. However, it does have draw backs and there are negative consequences from social media. I talk about ways an individual can set positive and healthy boundaries on social media. Support the show

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I discuss Teenage Suicide.  Suicide is when a young person decides to take his or her own life.  According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), teenage suicide is the third leading cause of death for young people the ages of 15-24.  In this episode, I discuss some of the warning signs of suicide and I talk about some of the things you can do to help a teenager if they have expressed suicidal thoughts.  It is very important to listen and trying to understand. Support the show

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I talk about teenage depression.  This disorder can affect the way that adolescents and teenagers think and feel.  Many adolescents and teenagers go through depression and it can affect them in many different ways.  In this episode, I talk about some of those ways that it can affect them and ways that we as parents can help.  September is National Suicide Prevention month and if anyone is faced with suicidal thoughts or tendencies the national Suicide Prevention Number is 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Support the show

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I talk about bullying and physical violence in schools.  Bullying is a major concern in our society today.  This type of behavior occurs when an individual is targeted over time and repeatedly.  Bullying can involve a balance of power and the individual who is the victim may have a hard time defending themselves.  This behavior can lead to physical and psychological problems.  Understanding and listening can help deal with this type of behavior.  Support the show

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I address dealing with negative thoughts and emotions.  Negative thoughts and emotions are unpleasant and disruptive emotional reactions.  Those disruptions can often interfere with your personal, physical, and emotional life.  It is very important to note that not all emotions are bad and this can include the negative ones.  Learning how to deal with the emotions are what can help individuals to become better.  If you are dealing with negative emotions, find out how to cope with them.  Support the show

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I talk about health and life insurance disparities.  When it comes to health insurance and life insurance, not everyone has access to them.  There can be huge gaps between groups and communities within the country. More has to be done when it comes down to planning and caring for your health and future.  In this episode, I talk about the differences in communities and the struggles with health and life insurance and how it can affect your health and overall mental health.  I am joined by my good friend Keith Carraway and he is a consultant with Fortis Life Group. Support the show

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I talk about managing stress.  We have all heard the old adage that pressure burst pipes.  The same can be said about stress in your body.  Stress is the feeling of being overwhelmed and in most cases unable to cope with the mental or emotional pressure of what is happening in your life.  Too much stress can have mental or physical consequences. I talk about stress and how you can manage the symptoms of too much of it in our day-to-day lives.  If you are dealing with stress, do not be afraid to reach out for help. Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewlstokes2)

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I discuss Developing Healthy Relationship Goals.  Relationship Goals are the essential piece in developing a healthy relationship.  It is easy to assume that love is enough to sustain a relationship.  However, this is not always the case.  It starts with compromise and commitment.  This can be the key for both parties to succeed in the relationship.  Relationship goals play a pivotal part in the happiness and success of many couples. Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewlstokes2)

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I talk about battling addiction.  Addiction is very complex and it can completely grab hold of the person that it has influence over.  Addiction is a disease that affects brain function and behavior.  Bottom line, you can have an addiction to just about anything.  What makes addiction so dangerous is the person that is affected has no regard for themselves and may cause harm just to satisfy the addiction.  There is help out there for addiction and it starts with the individual involved.  If you are battling addiction you can call 1-800-662-4357 SAMSHA (US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration). Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewlstokes2)

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI,  I talk about "Dealing With Anger." Anger is a natural emotion and it can be very helpful in doses.  It can help in a critical situation and it can also help protect us from danger.  However, if anger is left unchecked and it can become uncontrollable.  There can be very serious repercussions if anger is left to grow.  If your anger goes unchecked it may lead to anger issues.  There are mental health providers who specialize in dealing with anger and getting anyone the help they need. Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewlstokes2)

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I discuss Effective Communication in Relationships.  Effective communication is critical in the health and welfare of a relationship.  It is a must for both parties to be effective communicators.  Communication plays a vital role in the success of a relationship.  Communication nourishes and grows the relationship for both participants.  If you do not communicate with your partner you can lose touch with them and the relationship will slowly start to decline.  It is better for both parties to communicate in order to keep the relationship healthy. Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewlstokes2)

In this episode, I talk about" Seasonal Affective Disorder."  This time of year can be a joyous time for so many, but it can also be a downer for others as well.  Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD affects over 11 million people in the United States each year.  This form of depression is brought on by the changing season.  SAD can be attributed to the death of a loved one, bills, stress and a host of other factors.  If you are dealing with depression, do not be afraid to reach out to someone about it.  Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewlstokes2)

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I discuss Personal Spaces and Boundaries.  Personal spaces and boundaries helps us to maintain our physical and mental health.  They help us to gain safety, space, and the the respect you need in order to feel good about yourself.  Personal spaces and boundaries also set personal rules and limitations that we create for ourselves.  They govern how others act, behave and treat you.  Setting personal spaces and boundaries are a very important part of who we are as individuals. Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewlstokes2)

How you see yourself starts in the mind and not in the mirror.  The perception of yourself can change and alter the way you understand your value and worth.  Having a healthy body image and self esteem is a big part or your mental well-being.  So many today deal with negative images of themselves and this can be a private struggle.  If you are dealing with negative body image and low self esteem, do not be afraid to reach out.  Someone is willing to help you. Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewlstokes2)

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I talk about "Forgiveness."  Forgiveness can be a hard task to wrap your mind around.  This can be a really big problem for so many people.  This especially can be true if a person has wronged or hurt you.  Forgiveness can mean so many different things to people as well.  In this episode, I take an in-depth look at forgiveness and I talk about ways that forgiveness can be beneficial to you.  It's time to forgive and move away from what has hurt or angered you.  Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewlstokes2)

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I discuss mindfulness tips. Mindfulness is knowing what is going on around us and not overreacting or being overwhelmed by what is happening.  It is very easy to overreact about a situation.  That is especially true by what is happening in these times.  However, there is a practice that can help us to deal with life moving at 200 mph.  Mindfulness helps us to handle those situations and put certain things into perspective.  Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/andrewlstokes2)

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I discuss "Self Esteem". Self Esteem is basically how you see yourself and your abilities.  Your self esteem can be high, low or some what in an in between state.  In life, we are all going to have doubts about ourselves, and this doubt or low self esteem can leave us feeling down, insecure or unmotivated at times. However, there is help and we can pick ourselves up.  Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In the episode of MCLAHIGTI, I discuss "Self-Care Tips."  Self-Care means taking time to do things you enjoy and taking care of yourself.  When used consistently, self-care can reduce stress, relieve uncomfortable emotions, and improve your physical health.  Self-Care has to be made a priority.  No one will take care of you the way you do.  The episode gives you some steps you can take in efforts to improve your self-care routine and make that routine habitual.  Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI," I talk about supporting someone with depression.  Depression is one of the most common disorders in the world.  It affects more than 264 million people worldwide.  Depression can be different from the usual mood disorders and attitude changes that you may feel in everyday life.  I talk about supporting someone who is battling the disorder.  It is important that you are being there for the individual, but it is also equally important that you are taking care of yourself as well.  If someone is dealing with depression, do not be afraid to reach out for help.  Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

Trauma can happen to anyone and it can also leave you with a variety of mental health disorders.  Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is the most associated disorder with trauma.  PTSD can have a wide range of symptoms on an individual and those symptoms can look different in children and adults.  I am joined on the show by Toni Lewis and she is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Mississippi.  She is also the creator and founder of "Breaking 13, LLC."  We discuss symptoms and the differences of PTSD in children and adults. If you have dealt or dealing with trauma, seek help.  Someone is waiting to speak with you. Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I discuss Complex PTSD and Trauma.  Mostly everyone has heard of PTSD and anxiety disorders. These disorders can happen from a car accident, natural disaster, or a sudden death.  However, there is a closely related disorder called Complex PTSD that doctors are becoming more familiar with.  Both PSTD and CPTSD have similar symptoms, but they are not the same.  In this episode,  I discuss the disorder and various ways to seek treatment.  I am also joined by Veteran and author, Jennifer Hobbs and her book is "Calmed: Growth after Trauma" and she shares her experiences  and how her life has forever been changed.Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I discuss Mental Well-Being.  There is no set definition for it, but it involves how we feel, our state of being, and how we handle things from day-to-day.  Throughout the show, I discuss ways that you can help improve your mental well-being if you have been feeling down.  There is so much happening in the world today and we have to take our mental health and well-being into consideration.  Remember where ever you are, if you are struggling with the two you can reach out if you need help.  There are many professional that are waiting for your call.  Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In this episode of MCLAHIGTI, I discuss the importance of mental health and seeking treatment.  One in five Americans suffers from a mental illness and one is 25 suffers from a serious mental illness such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or recurring major depression.  It is important because you are important.  The way you think, your mood, and your behavior is all important.  I am joined by my good friend Jean Dabit.  She's a Licensed Professional Counselor here in the state of Mississippi.  She has some really great information to provide on the subject.  If you are in need of treatment or someone to talk too, do not be afraid to reach out.  Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I talk about transitions and life changes.  Life can happen to anyone and at anytime.  The one thing about change is that it is inevitable.  It is going to happen whether we want it to or not.  I am joined by my good friend Terrance Buckner and he is an Army Veteran and he talks about the transition from the military and how it affected him.   It is important to have a contingency plan for changes that happen, but again life can happen at any time.  If you are going through a change in life and you need help, do not be afraid to reach out to someone. Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In the episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I discuss Work Stress and Anxiety. Over 40 percent of Americans experience some type of work stress and anxiety daily. Anxiety is one of the most common types of mental health disorders there is. As a matter of fact, over 90 percent of people have experienced some type of anxiety at one time or another. I am joined by my friend Cassandra Bingham and she is a Certified Mental Health Therapist with the State of Mississippi. She shares her story with anxiety and we talk about ways that you can combat work stress and anxiety. If you are dealing with any type of disorder, do not be afraid to reach out to someone for help. Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I talk about Relationship Stress and Strain. 2020 was a hard year for everyone. It was especially hard for those who were/are dealing with relationship stress and strain. The pandemic has put so much on marriages and relationships. They are under a lot of pressure. Many couples are trying to navigate through arguments, financial struggle, domestic violence, and whatever else the pandemic throws at them. I am not a Marriage and Family Counselor, however I have learned from past relationships and through my marriage now. There are counselors, whether it be Pastoral or Clinical who is willing to help couples through this difficult time. Don't be afraid to reach out. Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I talk about depression. Depression affects over 16 million Americans each year. It can cause a wide range of emotions of the person who is dealing with it. Most people cannot overcome depression without some form of psychological treatment or help. Depression is one of the most treatable mood disorders. Between 80% and 90% of people with depression eventually respond well to treatment. I am joined by my friend Terry Akins as he discusses how he dealt with his bouts of depression. If you are suffering from depression, it is okay to seek help. Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I talk about grief and loss. Grief and loss is something that can happen to anyone at anytime. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. The way that person grieves is left strictly upon the individual. I also talk about myths and facts in the grieving process. I am joined by my friends Josh and Tammy Ricketts and they talk about the loss of their son Marquez. If you are grieving or had a loss, it is okay to talk with someone about the grief and how you can move forward. Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I discuss PTSD and Trauma. PTSD can happen to anyone and so can trauma. PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) can develop after a very stressful, frightening, or distressing event, or after a prolonged traumatic experience. PTSD develops in 1 and 3 people who have dealt with some type of trauma. In this episode, Nate Coker who is a former Special Forces Medic, Diver, and Combat Skills Instructor shares his experiences with the disorder. If you are suffering from some type of PTSD or trauma, it is okay to seek help. Support the show (https://cash.app/$drew7809)

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I speak about anxiety. Anxiety affects over 40 million Americans a year. This is one of the most common mental health disorders around. Unfortunately, many people do not get treated for anxiety and its symptoms. My guest is Earlie McCray and she is the creator and founder of "Her Mental Wealth" and "Muva of Wellness" and she speaks on personal experiences dealing with anxiety. She also offers suggestions on how someone who is dealing with anxiety can help themselves.

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I talk about Domestic Violence. In no form is domestic violence right. No relationship is worth a life or freedom. I share information on domestic violence and urge those who are in relationships that domestic violence is prevalent to seek safety. The National Domestic Abuse Hotline Number is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I discuss suicide. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the US today. Suicide is trending because of the pandemic and other events that happen in our lives. In 2018, 48,344 Americans died by suicide alone. However, there is help for those who are dealing with suicidal thoughts and ideations. Call 1-800-273-8255 or text TALK 741741. Someone is waiting for you.

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I discuss Trauma. Trauma can be both psychological and emotional. I also talk about the trauma that is caused by Covid-19 and other events that are happening around the country. Trauma can leave people feeling alone and isolated and I wanted to bring awareness to that fact. Also, I wanted to emphasize that it is okay to seek help.

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I discuss mental health stigmas and taboos. There are a lot of do's and don'ts that are involved in mental health. I wanted to bring some clarity to some of the stigmas and taboos that are associated with the people who are dealing with disorders and are skeptical about seeking treatment.

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I take an in-depth look into Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD. It offers a look at how these disorders affect Service Members, Veterans, Police Officers, Firefighters, and First Responders on a day-to-day basis.

In this episode of "MCLAHIGTI", I share my background story and introduction. I also share why mental health and the profession is so important to me.