Navigating Mental Health with Compassion and Community: Insights from Breanne Ward

04/08/24 • 41 min

In this enlightening episode of Coffee Can't Fix Everything, we're joined by the remarkable Breanne Ward, a founder therapist and a beacon of wisdom in the mental health community. We talk about the complexities of supporting friends and loved ones through mental health challenges, the importance of setting boundaries, and the power of vulnerability within the African American community. Breanne illuminates the conversation with her AAA policy – Acknowledge, be Aware, and be Accessible, providing actionable advice on how to initiate conversations about mental health with compassion and understanding. We also explore the significance of community in healing and the transformative potential of creating spaces for authentic connection and mutual support.

Show Notes:

Introduction to Breanne Ward: Learn about the insights and experiences that Breanne brings to the table as a seasoned mental health professional.
The AAA Policy: Discover the three crucial steps to approach someone dealing with mental health issues: Acknowledge their feelings, be Aware of the situation, and make yourself Accessible.
Setting Healthy Boundaries: Understand why it's essential to check your capacity and set boundaries when supporting someone, ensuring you don't compromise your own mental health.
Navigating Vulnerability: Breanne discusses the historical and societal challenges of vulnerability in the African American community and the strides being made towards openness and acceptance.
The Importance of Community: A deep dive into how building a supportive community can significantly impact mental health recovery and maintenance.
Practical Advice for Parents: Tips on how to discuss mental health with children, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and naming emotions within the family.
Creating Spaces for Healing: Learn about the upcoming social connected group aimed at fostering authentic selves and leadership among individuals post-healing.
Breanne's Contact Information: Ways to connect with Breanne Ward for further professional advice or personal support.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, it's crucial to seek professional help. In the United States, you can call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for support. Remember, it's okay not to be okay, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength.

Show Notes:

Introduction to Breanne Ward: Learn about the insights and experiences that Breanne brings to the table as a seasoned mental health professional.
The AAA Policy: Discover the three crucial steps to approach someone dealing with mental health issues: Acknowledge their feelings, be Aware of the situation, and make yourself Accessible.
Setting Healthy Boundaries: Understand why it's essential to check your capacity and set boundaries when supporting someone, ensuring you don't compromise your own mental health.
Navigating Vulnerability: Breanne discusses the historical and societal challenges of vulnerability in the African American community and the strides being made towards openness and acceptance.
The Importance of Community: A deep dive into how building a supportive community can significantly impact mental health recovery and maintenance.
Practical Advice for Parents: Tips on how to discuss mental health with children, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and naming emotions within the family.
Creating Spaces for Healing: Learn about the upcoming social connected group aimed at fostering authentic selves and leadership among individuals post-healing.
Breanne's Contact Information: Ways to connect with Breanne Ward for further professional advice or personal support.

Previous Episode

Finding Identity and Purpose in Service

In this deeply inspiring episode of "Coffee Can't Fix Everything," we sit down with the remarkable Austin Neal, who shares his transformative journey from an aspiring baseball player to a devoted servant of youth in need. Battling his own identity crisis after a life-altering diagnosis, Austin found solace and purpose in serving others. Through his work with the youth recovery program at Lutheran Church of Hope and his experiences with Joppa and the Boys and Girls Club, Austin sheds light on the profound impact of mentorship, the power of listening, and the importance of building trust. Join us as we explore how shifting focus from self to service can unveil the path to true identity and fulfillment.

Shownotes:

[00:26] Introduction to Austin Neal and the theme of the episode: mental health from the perspective of serving youth.
[01:26] Austin's background and how he got involved in serving youth, influenced by his mother's in-home daycare.
[02:25] The turning point in Austin's life: his struggle with identity and ulcerative colitis, leading to a significant change in direction.
[03:12] Advice from Pastor Jeremy: the transformative power of serving others.
[04:30] Austin's involvement with The Landing recovery program for teenagers and his role as a volunteer.
[05:00] Addressing deeper issues beyond substance abuse in youth recovery.
[06:07] The non-pushy approach to discussing faith within the recovery program.
[07:17] Austin's broader engagement with youth: working with the Joppa organization and the Boys and Girls Club.
[08:02] The common thread of losing identity among athletes and finding new purpose.
[09:23] The importance of genuinely listening and being present for the youth.
[14:12] Building trust and rapport with the youth, and the variable timeline it entails.
[17:36] Sharing personal struggles and lessons with the youth, fostering mutual understanding and respect.
[20:18] The challenge of not carrying home the trauma of the youth served.
[23:45] The struggle and necessity of finding enough people to serve the needs of youth facing mental health and trauma issues.
[31:47] Austin's personal practices for managing his mental health, including the role of cycling and prayer.
[35:36] Closing remarks and encouragement for listeners to seek help for mental health concerns.

This episode not only highlights the critical importance of mentorship and support for youth struggling with various challenges but also offers a poignant reminder of the healing power of service and the search for identity beyond one's accomplishments or failures.

Next Episode

Reshaping Identity: Life After Stroke

In this inspiring episode of "The Coffee Can't Fix Everything Podcast," I sit down with Dr. Pat Ford, a physical therapist with a remarkable story of resilience, recovery, and rediscovery. At the young age of 30, Pat experienced a life-altering stroke during a CrossFit workout, an event that not only challenged his physical capabilities but also his mental fortitude and identity. From navigating the complexities of rehabilitation to confronting the mental struggles of adapting to a new normal, Pat shares his candid journey towards self-acceptance, love, and the unyielding pursuit of health. This conversation delves into the themes of gratitude, the impact of sudden health crises on one's life and family, and the crucial importance of support systems and self-compassion in the healing process.

Show Notes:

[00:50] Introduction to Dr. Pat Ford, his background, and the day his life changed.
[01:56] Pat recounts the onset of his stroke, highlighting the unexpected nature of health crises and the immediate aftermath.
[04:29] The drastic shift from being a physically active individual to facing the realities of recovery and rehabilitation.
[06:18] Discussion on the financial fears and relief provided by health insurance, reflecting on the broader issues of healthcare accessibility.
[08:31] The role of gratitude in Pat’s recovery process, acknowledging his privileged position in contrast to others’ experiences.
[11:32] Exploring the psychological impact of the stroke on Pat’s identity and the process of adapting to a "new" version of oneself.
[16:36] Pat shares the ongoing challenges in his recovery, including dealing with weight gain and the frustration of not being able to return to previous levels of fitness.
[19:56] Addressing the importance of accepting change, setting realistic goals, and the concept of self-improvement.
[25:11] An emotional revelation about self-love, family, and confronting the deep-seated issues that hinder personal happiness.
[30:40] Concluding thoughts on making healthier choices, managing emotional responses, and the importance of support from loved ones.
[34:19] How to connect with Dr. Pat Ford for those inspired by his story.

Listeners are encouraged to seek support and engage in open discussions about mental health, reinforcing the podcast's mission to de-stigmatize mental health issues one conversation at a time.