Ep. 206 – Struggling with Mental Illness – Support & Empathy

Mental illness is one of the most widespread health issues we’re facing today 1 in 5 Canadians will experience a mental illness at some point in their lives Join Host Melinda as she shares her personal journey of depression and the stigma and shame she felt in it. AND, how she found healing through the help of her family, friends, doctor, therapist and church community. Also in this show, Melinda listens to the story of Jamie Grace (Grammy-nominated singer, actress & author) who was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome, OCD, ADHD and anxiety disorder at a young age. Jamie shares how she has learned how to manage the negative effects of her diagnoses, make the most of her strengths and leans into the journey God has led her on. A journey of ‘Finding Quiet.’ Melinda is also joined by a panel of mental health advocates, experts and speakers (Brett Ullman, Colleen Blake-Miller, Shaley Hoogendoorn) who discuss empathy, what NOT to say to people with mental illness, what is needed to support those with mental illness and their caregivers and encouragement to those struggling today. Lyndsay Thompson (registered psychotherapist) shares from the Good Word and Angie Peters (CEO, Yonge Street Mission Toronto) shares about mental illness and the poor and marginalized.