NAMI OC Presents: It's Okay To Feel

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Welcome to the official podcast of NAMI Orange County! Each week we'll explore important mental health topics including therapy, anxiety, depression, identity, sensitivity, racial trauma, body positivity, and more!

NAMI Orange County


    • Oct 30, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 40m AVG DURATION
    • 83 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The NAMI OC Presents: It's Okay To Feel podcast is an incredible resource for anyone interested in improving their mental health. The team at NAMI OC has created a safe and stigma-free space for listeners to explore various mental health topics and gain valuable insights from experts in the field. The podcast covers a wide range of issues facing our youth today, including eating disorders, anxiety, body image, setting boundaries, showing up for others, and self-care. Each episode provides viewers with permission to feel their emotions and offers important resources on how to seek help when needed.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the diverse perspectives it offers. With a variety of guests sharing their experiences and expertise, listeners are able to gain a well-rounded understanding of mental health issues. The episodes are informative and provide practical advice on how to help oneself. The hosts create a comforting atmosphere that makes listeners feel less alone in their struggles with anxiety or other mental health challenges. The conversations are authentic and serve to validate the experiences of those navigating their own mental health journey.

    While there are many positive aspects to this podcast, one potential downside is that it may not cover every single mental health topic or issue that individuals may be interested in exploring. However, given the breadth of topics already covered and the quality of information provided, this is a minor drawback.

    In conclusion, The NAMI OC Presents: It's Okay To Feel podcast is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to improve their mental health or gain a greater understanding of mental health issues affecting our society. It offers a safe space for listeners to explore their emotions and provides important resources on where to find help when needed. This podcast is informative, uplifting, and highly recommended for anyone looking to enhance their mental well-being.



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    Latest episodes from NAMI OC Presents: It's Okay To Feel

    NAMI Walks!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2024 34:29


    Tune in to the newest season of NAMI OC's It's Okay to Feel with hosts Dave Hill, Madi Morrison, and Breann Durham! We begin with a candid tribute to the podcast's original host, Ed Portillo, who will be missed dearly. After some catching up with Dave, Madi, and Bre, we jump into an informative and exciting conversation about NAMI Walks with coordinator Jennifer Lewis! Contact: ⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org Books Referenced: A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara The Concept of Anxiety by Soren Kierkegaard Not in It to Win It by Andy Stanley Scattered Minds by Gabor Mate The Secret History by Donna Tartt

    How to help your resistant loved one into treatment with Dr. Brian Licuanan

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2024 52:11


    One of the most popular questions we get here at NAMI OC is "How do I get my loved one who resists treatment into treatment?" Dr. Brian Licuanan wrote a book on that exact topic and we have him on the pod today. Dr. Licuanan is not only an author, speaker, and board-certified psychologist practicing in Southern California, he is also a NAMI OC support group leader. Take a listen as we go over his book and the step by step plan that can help your resistant loved one get into treatment.  Website: drbrianlicuanan.com IG: @drlicuananTT: @drlicuanan

    Fatherhood with Joshua Osborne and Phillip Banks

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2024 44:23


    When June comes around what do we think of, Dads and Grads of course! In this episode we focus on Dads and talk to two extraordinary fathers Joshua Osborne and Phillip Banks. Ed discusses with them the growth that happens within and how to be stellar #GirlDad. Phillip Banks Contact - Banks Family Tech

    Living with a Chronic Illness with Dr. Dorothea Howard

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2024 36:17


    Today we have a talk with Dr. Dorothea Howard. She is an award winning executive producer and host of the Lovesick podcast. She was diagnosed with Pulmonary Sarcoidosis and has been an advocate ever since. We discuss how she is living a successful life despite having a chronic illness. Our host Edward Portillo also lives with a chronic illness so conversations like this are very personal. Do not lose hope if you are diagnosed with a chronic illness, you can still live a fulfilling life.  Contact: itsokaytofeel@namioc.org Lovesick podcast

    Finding Purpose & the Importance of Connection with David Dicken

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2024 40:28


    Today we welcome back David Dicken, crisis counselor, to discuss the disconnect between older and younger generations. The lack of purpose and loss of connection with one another play a role in why our young people feel out of place. In this episode, we learn how to bring back that connection and ways to find true purpose in your life.  David Dicken Contact Info:Dave@makesomeonegreattoday.com www.makesomeonegreattoday.com It's Okay to Feel:Itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Compassionate Listening with Arna Vodenos

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2024 46:24


    When was the last time you truly felt heard? Ed and Arna Vodenos Clinical Director of the OC Warmline dive deep into the subject of compassionate listening. Find out the philosophy and the care that is put into the NAMI OC Warmline through the work that Arna does with her peer mentoring team.  NAMI OC WarmLine - (714) 991-6412 Contact: ItsOkaytoFeel@namioc.org

    Breaking Bias with Anu Gupta

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2024 55:07


    In today's episode Ed discusses where stereotypes and prejudices come from and the science-backed method to unravel them with Anu Gupta from Be More with Anu.  Send comments to Ed:Itsokaytofeel@namioc.org Anu's Website:www.bemorewithanu.com Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Emotional Resilience Through Self-Awareness

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2024 60:20


    Today we welcome back Shelley Armenta. She is an In Our Own Voice presenter and warmline operator with NAMI OC. We dive into the topic of resilience and how to cultivate it through self-awareness, cognitive restructuring, changing your thought patterns, and more. Thanks for tuning in! Contact Shelley: Heygirl@ShelleyArmenta.comwww.Shelleyarmenta.com Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Making Better Humans with Janeane Bernstein, EdD

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2024 31:31


    Today we talk with Janeane Bernstein, a mental health advocate, volunteer with NAMI Westside, journalist, and speaker.  We dive into how we as a society have come out of the pandemic better equipped to handle difficult situations because we all collectively went through it together. Her book, Better Humans: What the Mental Health Pandemic Teaches Us About Humanity, can be purchased on Amazon. Thanks for listening! Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Recovery, Resiliency, & the Importance of Peer Support with Jared Bendifallah

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2024 36:21


    Peer Support is a crucial component that makes NAMI work. Today we have peer support specialist Jared Bendifallah join the pod to discuss his mental health journey. We discover his 5 pillars of recovery to mental wellness, the importance of Peer Support groups, and our Peer to Peer classes. Find out more about Jared with the links below. Jared's LinkedIn profile: Jared Bendifallah | LinkedInJared's Calendly, in case people would like to connect with him for any reason: https://calendly.com/bookjaredb Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Exploring Happiness with Maria Baltazzi

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2024 53:13


    Happiness is not just a fleeting feeling, it can be a reality to live in. This episode we focus on this idea of happiness with the author of "Taking a Shot at Happiness," Maria Baltazzi. We explore the traits and habits one can practice that can create a lasting feeling of contentment. In that feeling of contentment we can come to a better understanding of ourselves and how we can achieve a more optimistic outlook. Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Keeping Our Children Safe Online w/ Amy Neville

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2024 47:43


    Today we have a discussion with Amy Neville from the Alexander Neville Foundation. We dive into navigating social media and the hidden dangers of purchasing drugs through these platforms. We then discuss ways to make a difference in saving lives and preventing tragedy.  Find out more about this organization: https://anfhelp.org/ Email us at: Itsokaytofeel@namioc.org Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Overcoming Trauma with Shelley Armenta & Marina Carrier

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2024 60:37


    Today we discuss overcoming trauma. If you are going through a tough time, hold on, do not lose hope! Get insights and coping skills on how to thrive despite experiencing traumatic events. If you need someone to talk to reach out to our 24/7 OC Warmline at (714) 991-6412. Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Gut Health with Peter Lourthu

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2024 86:22


    We dive into the connection between the gut and mind with Peter Lourthu. Ever thought about how the food you eat affects your mental health? First of the year is always a good time to make life changes. Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    A New Year for Mental Health

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2024 50:21


    This week, we have a combo platter for our listeners: Breann and Madi, the hosts of NAMI OC's Anxiety Sucks! team up with Ed Portillo, host of NAMI OC's other podcast It's Okay To Feel. We're here to share our New Year's resolutions and discuss some movies that have shaped our idea of mental health. Please fill out our surveys and/or email us at itsokaytofeel@namioc.org and anxietysucks@namioc.org! Enjoy!  Resources: ⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Owning Our Struggles with Minaa B. LMSW

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2023 41:11


    In this episode we sit down with author Minaa B. and discuss the struggle for fulfillment. How easing into rest informs our passion and purpose outside of labor. Ever felt that you were in a toxic system of busyness? Learn what true community care looks like and how to hold space for pause. Minna B. LMSW: https://www.minaab.com/ Resources: ⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Thinking Comedically with Tim Larson and Rene Scheys

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2023 48:03


    Have you ever thought about how your deposition or tendency to act a certain way affects your mental health? In this episode Ed talks to a comedy performer Tim Larson and writer Rene Scheys to discuss how thinking funny contributes to healthy mental health outcomes. Come join us for a laugh and an insightful conversation on how comedy can play a role in an individual's self care. Tim's Larson's Theater Group: www.theatreb.org. Resources: ⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠ ⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠ ⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠ ⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    thinking larson tim larson
    Education, post-Covid & Creating a Trusted Space with Lori Woodley-Langendorff

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2023 44:23


    This week we jump into the subject of education and the mental health of students post covid. Lori Woodley-Langendorff from All It Takes joins us to discuss a Trusted Space as series for educators that addresses the ongoing needs of our youth and education system in real time. Find out more at www.allittakes.org Resources: ⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠⁠ ⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠⁠ ⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠⁠ ⁠⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Living with a Chronic Illness

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2023 57:51


    In this episode Ed takes on a deeply personal issue: organ transplant and how that experience affects an individual's mental health. Ed links up with another transplant recipient Lennox Moreno and they discuss the whole experience and the lessons they learned through this life altering experience.  Resources: ⁠NAMI Orange County Website⁠ ⁠NAMI Orange County Programs⁠ ⁠NAMI Orange County Warmline⁠ ⁠NAMI Orange County Youtube⁠ OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: ⁠itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    All About Our Mentoring Services!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2023 49:44


    Deborah Diaz De Leon joins the pod to discuss her role as the Director of Mentor services. We discuss the origins of these new programs and the role Deb and her team have done to bring it to life. Listen in on how you can get connected to our free mentoring services. Resources: NAMI Orange County Website NAMI Orange County Programs NAMI Orange County Warmline NAMI Orange County Youtube OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    director mentor mentoring services
    Finding Spiritual Wellness

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2023 61:52


    In this episode we discuss finding spiritual wellness with Dr. Esther Park of Oak Health Center and our (anonymous) special guest who has extensive experience consulting for faith based organizations. We talk about the difference between healthy and unhealthy worship environments and mental health in faith settings. Oak Health Care Center: https://www.oak.care/ Resources: NAMI Orange County Website NAMI Orange County Programs NAMI Orange County Warmline NAMI Orange County Youtube OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Navigating Challenging Emotions

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2023 51:52


    Today we talk with crisis counselor David Dicken and discuss how to navigate challenging emotions. Find out tips and tools on how to support individuals who are going through a difficult situation. Learn healthy habits that create a safe space to foster open discussion and trust when handling challenging topics.  David Dicken Contact Information: www.makesomeonegreattoday.comwww.rocksideranch.com dave@makesomeonegreattoday.com  Resources: NAMI Orange County Website NAMI Orange County Programs NAMI Orange County Warmline NAMI Orange County Youtube OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    A.I. and Mental Health

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2023 52:41


    Many have heard about artificial intelligence but most have not discussed how it will fundamentally impact our lives in the coming years. Ed speaks with Varun Rishi, data analytics leader and founder of incourage.ai. We dive into the intricacies of A.I. and how the mental health industry may look different in the coming years due to this game changing technology.  Find out more about Varun's company visit:  incourage.ai Resources: NAMI Orange County Website NAMI Orange County Programs NAMI Orange County Warmline NAMI Orange County Youtube OC Warmline: (714) 991-6412 Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    Self-Care for Parents with Special Needs Children

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2023 34:03


    Life coach Hina Kalhoro joins the podcast to discuss the importance of self care for parents with special needs children. As someone with lived experience Hina explains easy ways that parents can prioritize their wellbeing in the midst of the responsibilities of raising a family with a special needs child. Connect with Hina Kalhoro: IG: @LifeCoachHina Resources: NAMI Orange County Website NAMI Orange County Programs NAMI Orange County Warmline NAMI Orange County Youtube Connect with us: IG: NAMI_OC Facebook: NAMI Orange County Tik Tok: NAMI_OC Email: itsokaytofeel@namioc.org

    NAMIWALKS Orange County 2023

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2023 48:38


    We welcome Jennifer Lewis, special events manager for NAMI OC and the manager of our largest fundraiser of the year, the 5K Walk taking place Saturday August 26th. We go over all the features and attractions to look forward to. Find out how this is more than just a fundraiser it is a place to build community. How to Sign Up: NAMIWALKS 

    Welcome to Season 4!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2023 26:19


    Welcome to season 4 of It's Okay To Feel. New season, new host, Edward Portillo, and even new theme music! Steve interviews Ed as he shares his mental health journey. Get Connected:NAMI Orange CountyUpcoming EventsDonate to NAMI Orange CountyCrisis Line, Warmline and Support GroupsDisclaimers:It's Okay To Feel is for informational/educational and/or entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or psychiatric advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    A Series on Self Care: Episode 1

    Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2023 26:46


    This week has been busy with graduations and vacations so we thought it would be fun to bring back one of our most popular episodes from last year. This episode we begin the discussion about the importance of self care. We want to give you all some background in our journeys and  how self care plays a significant part in our lives. This is the start of a multi episode series on a adventure we went on together after the passing of family members in the hopes to find peace. 

    Recovery with Tom Buckley

    Play Episode Play 50 sec Highlight Listen Later May 22, 2023 35:26


    This week we have a special guest from San Luis Obispo, Tom Buckley. We discuss his relationship with mental health and recovery while touching on important topics within the community. This Episode's Resources:More about Tom - www.aspirecounselingservice.com/san-luis-obispoNAMI SLO (San Luis Obispo, CA) - www.namislo.orgGet Connected:NAMI Orange CountyUpcoming EventsDonate to NAMI Orange CountyCrisis Line, Warmline and Support GroupsDisclaimers:It's Okay To Feel is for informational/educational and/or entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or psychiatric advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Cork Snider: Tour de Recovery 2023

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2023 25:23


    This week we have a special guest with us, founder of Tour De Recovery, Cork Snider. Cork joins us again this year to tell us about how the tour went the last year and what to look forward to this ride.  This Episode's Resources: • Faith's Hope Scholarship - http://www.somedayproductions.org • Tour de Recovery - https://somedayproductions.org/the-route-and-tour-stopsEvent Details - Saturday June 10th Tour Stop in Orange County!• Mile Square Park at 9 a.m. It's a ride along for up to 50 miles -- however many miles you want to do. From Mile Square Park to Seal Beach to San Clemente.• Veronica Kelley will speak & La Quinta dance team, band, NAMI club, Girl's League and Boy's league will all be there!Get Connected with NAMI OC:NAMI Orange CountyUpcoming EventsDonate to NAMI Orange CountyCrisis Line, Warmline and Support GroupsDisclaimer:It's Okay To Feel is for informational/educational and/or entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or psychiatric advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Crisis Intervention Resources

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2023 21:16


    This week we discuss two crisis intervention resources: The OC WarmLine and Be Well's crisis response unit. These are great resources to find help if you are experiencing a crisis and don't know what to do. This Episode's ResourcesOC WarmLine - Support & Resources 24/7         Call: (714) 991-6412         For more info or to chat online, visit: www.namioc.org/oc-warmlineBe Well Mobile Response - www.bewelloc.org/bewell-mobile-responseGet Connected:NAMI Orange CountyCrisis Line, WarmLine and Support GroupsDisclaimers:It's Okay To Feel is for informational/educational and/or entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or psychiatric advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Spiritual Dysfunction with Edward Portillo

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2023 32:53


    This week we highlight our CARE Together forums with Ed. He is part of the NAMI Orange County team and we discussed the importance of spotting dysfunction in a faith based community. This Episode's Resources:Past CARE Together Forums: NAMI OC YouTube Channel Upcoming EventsDonate to NAMI Orange CountyGet Connected:NAMI Orange CountyCrisis Line, WarmLine and Support GroupsCall our OC WarmLine directly 24/7 for resources and support at (714) 991-6412Disclaimers:It's Okay To Feel is for informational/educational and/or entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or psychiatric advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Sleeping Well with Mental Illness

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2023 19:33


    This week we talk about the importance of sleep and how to use your sleep pattern as an indicator for your mental health. 

    Myths About Violence and Mental Illness

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2023 27:11


    This week we discuss some myths and stigma surrounding violence among those who suffer from mental illness. We talk about the connection between a violent past and mental illness and try to disconnect the common belief that most people that suffer from mental illness tend to be more violent than others. Resources:NAMI Orange CountyCrisis Line, WarmLine and Support GroupsCall our OC WarmLine directly 24/7 for resources and support at (714) 991-6412

    Craig's Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2023 28:20


    This week Steve interviews Craig about his story. We talk about his struggles with grief, loss, addiction, depression and anxiety. He highlights key parts of his story where change started to happen and how it has led to his success today. Resources:NAMI Orange CountyPeer ConnectorUpcoming EventsCrisis Line, WarmLine and Support GroupsDonate to NAMI Orange County

    Embracing Realistic Expectations

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2023 18:25


    This week we discuss a story by Emily Pearl Kingsley called "Welcome to Holland."  It is about finding yourself in a place you didn't expect to be and changing your expectation to find the beauty of where you are at. We talk about our experiences as a family member and from a peer's perspective. Resources:NAMI Orange CountyCrisis Line, Warmline and Support Groups

    Tami Heidi from Open Line Interview with Steve Pitman

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2023 16:35


    This week we share an interview of Steve on Open Line with Tami Heidi. Steve and Tami discuss mental health challenges impacted by the pandemic due to isolation, fear and uncertainty from the lack of person to person connection, as suicide rates continue to rise. They go into the stigma surrounding Steve's experiences as a family member of a loved one with a mental health condition and what has changed with the stigma in the last 15 years versus what is still to be done to end the stigma. The family impact is integral in the mental health journey to recovery. NAMI Orange County Programs mentioned this episode:Family to Family:  www.namioc.org/classesPeer to Peer:  www.namioc.org/classesOC WarmLine:   www.namioc.org/oc-warmlineComing Soon! "NAMI By Your Side"  (Mentoring Program) NAMIWalks 2022:   www.namiwalks.org/orangecounty  (Donations open until January 19th 2023 on the Walk site to reach our goal of $200k)

    Support for Families Series: Taking Care of the Caregiver

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2022 26:43


    This week we go in-depth on another one of our Family to Family class topics about "Taking Care of the Caregiver". We touch on key tips for success in making sure to keep yourself healthy and happy while having a loved one with a mental illness. Family to Family (F2F) is a no-cost, 12-week educational program for loved ones of those living with a mental health condition (over 18) to improve their coping and problem-solving abilities.This Episode's ResourcesSign Up for Family to Family: namioc.org/classesMore information on Family to Family: namioc.org/family-members

    Diving into Family to Family Class Topics: Let Go!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2022 33:07


    This week we discuss one of the main topics from our Family to Family class. Letting go is all about how to let go while still caring for your loved one that is struggling with a mental health condition. We talk about boundaries and ways to be supportive without fixing. Family to Family (F2F) is a no-cost, 12-week educational program for loved ones of those living with a mental health condition (over 18) to improve their coping and problem-solving abilities. This Episode's ResourcesSign Up for Family to Family: namioc.org/classesMore information on Family to Family: namioc.org/family-membersWalk Website: www.namiwalks.org/orangecountyHope to see you there!! ☻

    NAMIWalks 2022 with Cameron Mangels

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2022 17:48


    This week we talk about the upcoming NAMIWalk on Nov 19th at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, CA. Our Walk Coordinator, Cam, is our guest this episode! Tune in as he gives us more information about the upcoming Walk on Saturday, Nov 19th as well as the importance of this event and exclusive intel on how this year's theme came to be!  A morning of fun, entertainment, exercise and connecting to end the stigma and continue the conversation around mental health. Hope to see you there!! ☻This Episode's Resources:Join a Team  - Join Here! (Steve and Craig's team name: BRAINWAVES)Start a Team - Click Here!Make a Donation - Donate Here!Get Connected:Walk Website: www.namiwalks.org/orangecountyNAMI Orange CountyNew NAMI National Book: You Are Not Alone (2022) - Learn more at nami.orgCrisis Line, Warmline and Support GroupsDisclaimers:It's Okay To Feel is for informational/educational and/or entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or psychiatric advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Wrapping Up Connection

    Play Episode Play 45 sec Highlight Listen Later Oct 4, 2022 19:16


    This week we bring together how connection has been a big part of our conversations over the past year. We touch on the Walk and our Peer Connector program. These are two great ways to get connected with people that understand you and can help with any struggle you may have. Resources:Peer Connector Program - namioc.org/mentoring-servicesNAMIWalks (11.19.22 at Angels Stadium) - namiwalks.org/orangecountyNew NAMI National Book: You Are Not Alone (2022) - Learn more at nami.orgNAMI OC Website - namioc.orgGet Connected:NAMI Orange CountyCrisis Line, Warmline and Support GroupsDisclaimers:It's Okay To Feel is for informational/educational and/or entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or psychiatric advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    Suicide Prevention Month: Communication

    Play Episode Play 30 sec Highlight Listen Later Sep 19, 2022 24:41


    This week we talk about suicide prevention month.  It is important to not just communicate with people in your life but to connect with them.  We talk about the difference between communication and connection and how to create successful connections. Steve discusses the new NAMI OC Reach In Campaign for September. For more details, visit our website: www.namioc.org. Have you taken the #ReachInOC Challenge yet?

    Connectedness

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2022 22:22


    This week we touch on the importance of connectedness. This is forming those connections within your family, community, and the world to help support and guide you on your mental health journey. We talk about examples and suggestions of how to build stronger connections and find support groups. 

    A Series on Self Care: Episode 4 The Final Push

    Play Episode Play 20 sec Highlight Listen Later Jun 30, 2022 23:32


    This week we wrap up our self care series. We discuss the last legs of the John Muir trail and the importance of how this trip benefitted our mental health. Self care is one of the most important things we can do for our mental health and recovery. Reach out and find what self care means to you and discover you own self care that will change your life. If you have any questions or want to share you story email me at cnemeth@namioc.org. We would love to hear from our listeners. 

    Tour de Recovery with Cork Snider

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2022 25:49


    Craig and Steve meet with Cork Snider, a cycling enthusiast that is riding from San Jose to Oceanside from June 3-12 to raise money and awareness for mental health and substance abuse recovery. There is a tour stop in Anaheim on June 11 at 9am at ARTIC Lot B where speakers and performers will be participating and seeing Cork, and his riding partner Rick Burns off towards San Clemente. It's a ride-along so bring your bike and go as far as you want. For more information, see http://www.somedayproductions.org , or follow Cork on Tik Tok at cork_snider or his facebook page

    A Series on Self Care: Episode 3

    Play Episode Play 30 sec Highlight Listen Later Apr 12, 2022 26:20


    This week we breakdown the most recent things we have done for self care. I discuss my new position at Hoag Hospitals Emergency Department. We talk about another leg of the John Muir Trail. This leg held plenty of trials and successes through grief. Come listen to our story and learn about self care. 

    A Series on Self Care: Episode 2

    Play Episode Play 21 sec Highlight Listen Later Mar 7, 2022 28:33


    On this episode we talk about the beginning of our hiking. We touch on how we got started and the beginning of the John Muir Trail we did together. We are continuing to discuss the importance of self care and what we enjoy as our self care. 

    A Series on Self Care: Episode 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2022 26:46


    This episode we begin the discussion about the importance of self care. We want to give you all some background in our journeys and  how self care plays a significant part in our lives. This is the start of a multi episode series on a adventure we went on together after the passing of family members in the hopes to find peace. 

    Happy Holidays!!

    Play Episode Play 20 sec Highlight Listen Later Dec 14, 2021 20:18


    We are back! After a long couple weeks with COVID i am back and recording another episode for you all. This week we talk about how the walk went, Thanksgiving and the holidays, and go in depth in the different programs NAMI OC has to offer.  

    NAMIWalks 2021

    Play Episode Play 33 sec Highlight Listen Later Oct 29, 2021 23:20


    This episode we discuss our upcoming NAMIWalk on November 20th. Steve and Craig break down a little bit of the history and importance of this event. We appreciate you listening and hope we will see you at the walk. 

    Meet the Hosts!

    Play Episode Play 50 sec Highlight Listen Later Sep 27, 2021 19:34


    On this new episode of It's Okay to Feel, we are meeting the new hosts Craig Nemeth and Steve Pitman. They talk about how they got involved with NAMI Orange County and what is to come for the new season! Disclaimers:It's Okay To Feel is for informational/educational and/or entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or psychiatric advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

    Inside the Mind of a Middle Schooler

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2021 17:26


    On this episode of It's Okay to Feel, Girl Scout Troop 2898, with Sonal, Urja, Roma, and Pia, talk about the basic knowledge of mental health and mental illnesses. This episode is part of their Silver Award, the second highest award any Girl Scout can receive. They chose to record an episode about this topic because of their passion for educating and bringing awareness to the middle school/high school groups. They have worked over 50 hours on their project, much of which came from working on their Instagram account, @positivity.mental.health, where they post quotes and important information about common mental illnesses. In this episode Sonal, Urja, Roma, and Pia talk about:what mental health iswhat mental illness ispeople with generalized anxiety and their experiencespeople with social anxiety and their experiencespeople with depression and their experienceshow to help someone struggling with mental healthnutrition and body imagepositivity and confidenceResources:National Alliance on Mental Illness OC Warmline: 714-991-6412National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK (8255)National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): 1-866-615-6464

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