This diary is a candid and deeply personal podcast that offers an intimate glimpse into the life, experiences, and emotions of its host, Christina Adeyemo-Giesbrecht, as she navigates the challenging terrain of depression, anxiety, mental health, and the unique intersections of being a Black woman. She takes you on a raw and authentic journey through her daily struggles, triumphs, and reflections. This is a place for healing, for solidarity, and for breaking the stigma surrounding depression in Black communities. Tune in to join Christina on her path to self-discovery and mental wellness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
SEASON ONE FINALE(WARNING: My ADHD was in hyperdrive recording this; so if it sounds like I'm just saying random things or rambling... that's why)In this final diary entry of the season, I discuss my internal battle of questioning the validity of my own depression amidst the backdrop of global crises and societal injustices. Through some verbal processing, I wrestle with feelings of guilt and inadequacy.This week, I simply wish to reassure my beloved listeners that every emotion, whether rooted in chemical imbalances or circumstantial hardships, is valid and worthy of acknowledgment. And with that being said, I urge all of us to keep pushing forward, one step at a time.I'm leaving y'all with powerful reminders: (1) we are not alone in our journey towards healing; (2) there is a transformative power in vulnerability and connection.Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Until next time, take care, and remember, you are not alone! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week's episode, I'll be discussing a deeply personal topic that has been constantly weighing on my mind: the concept of being a "good wife." I'll be focusing on the traditional gender roles and expectations instilled in me since childhood.With this episode, I aim to openly challenge societal expectations and emphasize the importance of prioritizing individual well-being within the context of a loving partnership. My hope is that my listeners define their own relationship dynamics on mutual respect, communication, and happiness.Let's redefine the meaning of partnership, and finds peace in the unique rhythm of our relationships. Love knows no bounds and true partnership goes far beyond conventional expectations.IG: @depressedblackwomandiary Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In today's episode, I'll be discussing how depression has profoundly impacted my self-image and the toll it has taken on my body and sense of self-worth.I've had to confront the emotional toll of seeing myself change physically and the challenge of finding self-acceptance in the face of societal beauty standards. And I am still working on it!Today, I'm encouraging you, my listeners, to reject society's narrow definitions of beauty and embrace your unique selves, in all your sizes and shapes! IG: @depressedblackwomandiary Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My personal GREAT CONSPIRACY THEORY!In this episode, I will be opening up about a deeply ingrained belief that I hold about myself—the pervasive feeling of being a burden to others. Despite reassurances from loved ones and my therapist, I constantly have to confront the persistent voice in my mind that tells me lies—a voice that insists that I am burdensome beyond measure. I am being forced to grapple with the contradictions between external affirmations of my value in the lives of those around me and my internalized belief of unworthiness. I am inviting my listeners to reflect on their own deeply held beliefs and their impact on perception and behavior! I am encouraging y'all to challenge your own self-limiting beliefs and embrace the inherent worthiness of your existence. I hope by sharing this, my listeners feel a sense of solidarity and understanding; being reminded that we are not alone in our journey towards self-acceptance and healing.To DM me, follow my Instagram account: @deprerssedblackwomandiary Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
YOUR GIRL IS RANTING TODAY!!In this special Valentine's Day episode, I start a reflection on the Christian community's obsession with marriage. I will be challenging the narrative and advocating for a paradigm shift towards prioritizing individual fulfillment and spiritual growth.I will be discussing the detrimental effects of this mindset on singles and the wider community. Drawing from personal experiences and cultural observations, I highlight the nuanced complexities surrounding marriage expectations and the damaging consequences of rushing into relationships for the sake of societal norms.Tune into my heartfelt conversation as I invite you, my listeners, to reflect on your own beliefs and experiences. Whether single or partnered, Christian or non-Christian, this episode offers encouragement for all who seek to redefine the meaning of love, purpose, and fulfillment in their lives.IG: @depressedblackwomandiary Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Is it wrong for me to wanna pivot?"Welcome to another introspective episode where thoughts flow freely and reflections run deep. In this diary entry, I explore the uneasy terrain of career dissatisfaction and the quest for purpose. As a "seasoned" nurse of about six years, I am grappling with the realization that perhaps nursing isn't her true calling. Despite excelling in the field, I feel a profound misalignment with my passions and creative inclinations.May I dare to dream and deviate from the prescribed path of a healthcare professional and pursue her long-suppressed artistic passions?(I'M SORRY YALL! I WAS HAVING SOME MIC ISSUES IN A LITTLE BIT OF THE EPISODE!! LET IT ROCK! IT WON'T HAPPEN AGAIN!)IG: @depressedwomandiary Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Have you ever experienced a new mental health diagnosis or medication that was life-altering?" In this episode, I share a HUGE personal revelation! Apparently, ADHD was contributing significantly to my struggles in life. Reflecting on past suspicions fueled by neurodivergent (ND) TikToks and conversations with my brother-in-law, I'll be describing my experience with the process of seeking confirmation and the impact of the diagnosis on my life so far. Tune in on this insightful episode that sheds light on the complexities of mental health diagnoses and the potential for life-altering change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this podcast episode, I'm diving into the challenging journey of self-love. Acknowledging my personal struggle with self-esteem is beyond challenging, but with the help of a thought-provoking journal prompt, I'm able to do a little self reflection on my relationship with myself. This episode explores the concept of self-love and I use the results of my brief research findings to discover practical steps toward fostering a positive sense of self. I'll be sharing my own plans for starting up these self-love practices and I encourage all my listeners to join in!My goal being the same; creating a supportive community dedicated to self-improvement, personal development, and mental wellness through the sharing of experiences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Have you ever compared your struggles with someone else's?"In this week's episode on mental health and healing, I talk about the unhealthy habit of comparing my struggle with depression to others. Reflecting on misconceptions I've held in the past, I'm really trying to remove the crazy idea that some manifestations of depression seem better. The episode encourages listeners to focus on their own journeys and work towards healing while discouraging harmful comparisons in the realm of mental wellness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, I'm challenging myself and my listeners/viewers to dive into a JOURNAL PROMPT!We'll be revealing the impact of childhood beliefs on mental health through my personal story! My hope for this episode is to encourages listeners to embrace journaling for mental health; fostering a community dedicated to healing and self-improvement. Join the conversation, share your experiences, and subscribe for more insightful content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this candid episode, the main focus of the episode is a revelation shared by Christina's therapist about the challenges associated with being labeled as "smart" throughout childhood. She shares her personal journey of effortlessly excelling academically until facing the reality of having to put in effort during the later years of university and in her nursing career.The episode explores the psychological impact of associating identity with being smart, leading to a binary view of intelligence—either effortlessly smart or feeling like a failure when effort is required. She discusses the pressure and internal struggle of grappling with the belief that they should know everything without putting in the work.The therapist's advice to embrace the middle ground and acknowledge that learning often requires effort is highlighted. Christina openly discusses the challenges of adapting to this mindset and the fear of losing the core identity tied to being smart.The narrative provides insights into our host's journey of self-discovery and the attempt to rewire thought patterns, emphasizing the importance of avoiding the "smart" label for children and praising their hard work instead.The episode concludes with a reflection on the ongoing struggle and a call to reevaluate how intelligence is perceived and communicated, suggesting a shift towards recognizing and celebrating hard work rather than innate intelligence.In true diary-entry style, Christina leaves listeners with thought-provoking insights and personal reflections, inviting them to reconsider the impact of labels and offer gratitude for the support received. The episode wraps up with a poignant reminder to stop calling people smart and instead celebrate their hard work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, Christina reflects on the post-Christmas period and gears up for the New Year. Our host acknowledges the pressure of the "New Year, New Me" mantra, expressing doubts about sudden transformations on January 1st. Instead, the focus shifts to a more realistic and gradual approach towards personal growth and development throughout the entire year.She unveils their resolution for 2024: aiming not to become a new person immediately, but to evolve into a better version of herself by December 31st. This shift in perspective highlights the importance of sustained effort and patience in the journey of self-improvement.Mental health becomes a central theme as Christina reflects on the past year, discussing a need for intentional healing and self-care. Acknowledging a personal journey towards prioritizing mental health, she shares experiences with therapy and a commitment to being intentional in 2024.This episode explores the concept of living for oneself first, emphasizing that personal well-being is the foundation for being the best version for others. Closing the episode, Christina commits to continuing the podcast journey, promising authenticity, relatability, and vulnerability. The episode concludes with a call to make realistic and achievable goals for the new year, encouraging listeners to embark on their unique journeys of self-improvement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this heartfelt diary entry, Christina discusses the challenges of Christmas time, expressing a sense of nostalgia and difficulty since moving away from family. Christina shares the struggle of adapting and creating new traditions, acknowledging the loneliness that some may feel during the holiday season, particularly those dealing with depression. She emphasizes the importance of not letting depression consume the entire holiday season. The entry ends with a message of resilience and a wish for everyone to get through the season, recognizing that just surviving is enough. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this candid diary entry, the host reflects on a preference for friends who need rather than want her. She delves into the insecurity of wanting to be genuinely valued, expressing a fear of not being enough without performing. The host acknowledges the need for self-worth and ongoing healing, inviting listeners into the complexities of her introspection. The entry concludes with a shout-out to friends and a reminder to appreciate those who love without conditions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week's episode, Christina reflects on her highly enjoyable, yet emotionally draining family visit; discussing the struggle to maintain boundaries, the toll of being constantly 'on,' and the challenge of transitioning back to solitude. A raw exploration of the impact on mental health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"Do you really expect me to be okay with the idea of working like a dog until I'm old and grey and then spend my days in retirement finally enjoying myself?" This is the question our host really wants to ask society but for now, she'll just stick to reflecting on this question in today's diary entry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Christina dives into the conundrum of using hobbies and passions to cope with depression and the fact that depression causes use to lose interest and the ability to enjoy most things. How do you cope when you lose interest in the things that once made you happy? Tune into this audio diary entry as she reflects on that very question. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Listen in on Christina ranting about how frustrating she finds words of toxic positivity [ie. "everything will be fine" "just think positively" "at least you're not experiencing (insert objectively worse problem), it could be so much worse"]. Christina takes time to describe why toxic positivity can feel so harmful and also suggests some alternative phrases others could use instead. She wraps up with the realization that a lot of those who suffer from depression, use toxic positivity on themselves, herself included. Join in on another episode of self-discovery as our host gradually makes her way to mental well-being. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
TW: In this week's episode, our show's host, Christina, reflects on her emotions when celebrities she loved chose to end their own lives. She discussed her love for Twitch Boss, Robin Williams as well as Anthony Bourdain and the shock it gave her to discover their agony in life only after their lives have ended. She shares in her own experiences struggling with finding what will ease the pains of depression and concludes somewhat enlightened by where her thoughts take her. Tune in on this week's journey through feelings of hopelessness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In today's entry, tune in as Christina reflects on the feeling of being mentally weaker than the average person due to not being able to handle some of life's most simplest challenges. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join our host, Christina, as she discusses her thoughts with the changes in the seasons while living with depression as a black woman in Canada. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tune in as Christina reveals her journey with depression and anxiety and what brought her to the point where she is today. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/diaryofadepressedbw/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This is just a trailer briefly familiarizing you with the podcast's host and the show itself. Who is this for? Why was this made? What is its purpose? You'll likely find the answers to your questions in this trailer.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/diaryofadepressedbw/message Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.