Community Features
Blog Post for My Wellbeing
“How can you talk to a loved one who is wrestling with addiction? As a community of mental health advocates, we know how difficult addiction can be. If a loved one of yours is struggling with addiction, it can also be difficult to know how to communicate and offer your support.” Blog post on 7 important tips on how to communicate with a loved one struggling with substance use.
WeTheVillage.co Webinar
“How to Have Conversations That Actually Work”
Panel Speaker for Best Day Ever
Because addiction is so wrapped up in shame fueling the stigma, the idea of talking about addiction can be very unappealing, but we have to talk about it order to fight it! Substance use affects an estimated 25 million Americans. And recovery can be a confusing, long and winding road. It’s not a linear process.
As a way to explore these complexities, @thebestday.ever put together an incredible panel to discuss the topic of “Coming Home”.
I’m so beyond grateful to have been a part of this experience with @sarrahstrimelyoga @mitchmotivates and Neuroscientist Judith Grisel. We talked about addiction as a chronic brain disease, the experience of loving and supporting someone who is abusing substances, what’s going on in the brain while under the influence, misconceptions families and loved ones often have about their loved one returning home from rehab, positive communication tips, and deeply moving stories that brought us to tears as well as laughs.
The Best Day Ever created a safe environment in the @lululemonnyc store in SoHo, NY where the shame dripped away, and as a community we felt empowered to discuss addiction and it’s impact on our lives. Then we danced like no one was watching, and after that @sarrahstrimelyoga led us through a guided breathing exercise. All while enjoying delicious beverages from @healthade and @dirtylemon YUM!
Co-Facilitated an Integrative Mental Health and Wellness Event (May 19th, 2019)
During the workshop we encouraged participants to tap into their own vulnerability in order to develop a deeper awareness and understanding of this state by incorporating techniques from major wellness components including mindfulness exercises, therapeutic tools and trauma-conscious yoga.
The workshop took place in an intimate setting with a small group of open, curious and like-minded participants in NYC run by myself @robertamarinpsych @ibadona and @kunawiri_mimi . During this workshop we created a safe space where all attendees could feel comfortable taking off their protective armor and showing their authentic selves.
Stay tuned for more events on “Reducing The Stigma”!