17 episodes

Mental Health U is a podcast dedicated to demystifying and destigmatizing mental health issues. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or some other mental health issue, then this podcast is for you.

Mental Health U Bill Emahiser

    • Health & Fitness

Mental Health U is a podcast dedicated to demystifying and destigmatizing mental health issues. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or some other mental health issue, then this podcast is for you.

    Exploring Childhood Depression: Signs, Support, and Expert Advice

    Exploring Childhood Depression: Signs, Support, and Expert Advice

    Have you ever gazed into a child's eyes and witnessed something deeper than just the passing whims of youth? Megan Reinhart and Julia Manalukas rejoin us to shed light on the complexities of childhood depression, a topic too crucial to be overlooked. We uncover the intricate web of symptoms that indicate more than just fleeting sadness, including irritability and changes in social behaviors. Recognizing these subtleties can empower us with the understanding to identify when this mental health condition significantly disrupts a child's life and when to seek the guiding hand of professional help.
    Our discussion takes a creative turn as we weave through the narrative of a young student who expressed his emotions using an innovative "Anger-O-Meter," highlighting the importance of nurturing strategies to help children articulate and manage their feelings. Megan and Julia share their wisdom on establishing quality time and routines that connect us with our children and create a bedrock of security and structure. These tales of family engagement are a testament to the transformative impact of intentional support on a child's emotional resilience.
    As we conclude our conversation, we want to emphasize the importance of routines, good sleep habits, and finding a balance between expectations and support, especially for those dealing with anxiety or depression. We recognize the concerns and difficulties faced by caregivers, and we stress the importance of seeking professional help. Organizations like unisonhealth.org are valuable resources in the Northwest Ohio community, and our discussion serves as a heartfelt reminder of our shared commitment to nurturing the mental well-being of our youth. Join us for this meaningful conversation, where our dedication to children's mental health shines as brightly as the hope we hold for their future.

    • 22 min
    Nurturing Young Minds: Leona Lewis and Veronica Laverde on Early Intervention and Strength-Based Child Development

    Nurturing Young Minds: Leona Lewis and Veronica Laverde on Early Intervention and Strength-Based Child Development

    Embrace a new horizon in children's mental health with our expert guests, Leona Lewis and Veronica Laverde, as they unfold the mysteries of early intervention and the strength-based approach. Together, we navigate the waters of young minds, discovering how recognizing and nurturing a child's potential can make all the difference from birth to five years old. This podcast promises a transformative exploration for parents and educators, guiding you to see the early signs in behavioral shifts, and how to support mental wellness in our little ones without jumping to diagnoses or negative labels.

    As we converse with Leona and Veronica, we reveal the unconventional yet impactful role of consultants in child development. Witness how collaborative consulting can turn everyday challenges into opportunities for teaching life skills. Feel empowered as we share strategies to create a supportive network, emphasizing the importance of cultivating hope and confidence in every interaction with children. Our approach promises to shift the paradigm from problem-focused to strength-celebrating, fostering a nurturing environment for both kids and caregivers to thrive in.

    The journey wraps up with an emphasis on joy and positivity, the quiet heroes in the quest for mental well-being. We dissect practical, evidence-based techniques such as the Positive Parenting Program and conscious discipline, arming you with a toolkit to address common concerns with grace. And for those eager to continue the conversation, we hint at the promise of future dialogues that will further enrich our approach to fostering robust mental health in our youngest generation. Join us for this heartfelt episode that's both a celebration of and a guiding light for the path to children's mental wellness.

    • 26 min
    Overcoming Panic Attacks

    Overcoming Panic Attacks

    Welcome to Mental Health U, where I, Bill Emahiser, extend a warm, understanding hand to those grappling with the tempest of panic attacks. Picture this: the world around you tightens, your heart races, and the fear of impending doom engulfs you—this isn't the plot of a thriller, but the harrowing reality of a panic attack. Our latest episode shines a light on this intense mental health struggle, as I share not only my clinical expertise in anxiety disorders but also an intimate account of my journey through personal adversity and subsequent battles with panic. We're here to explore the depths of panic attacks, decode their symptoms, and arm you with robust cognitive behavioral strategies to reclaim your peace of mind.

    This heart-to-heart conversation is both a source of solace and a toolbox of techniques for anyone touched by the shadow of panic. As we traverse the unpredictable terrain of mental health, our discourse will reveal how to distinguish discomfort from danger and potentially eradicate panic episodes from your life. I draw upon my own experiences and specialized training to offer you a narrative of resilience and recovery. Join us in this informative quest to understand and take control of your mental health, where the ultimate victory over panic is not just a possibility but a palpable reality.

    • 14 min
    Unlocking Courage: Megan Rinehart and Julia Manolukas on Confronting Childhood Anxiety and Building Resilience

    Unlocking Courage: Megan Rinehart and Julia Manolukas on Confronting Childhood Anxiety and Building Resilience

    Ever wondered why anxiety seems to be an unwelcome shadow following so many children today? Megan Reinhart and Julia Manalukas from Unison Health join us to illuminate the dark corners of this growing epidemic, offering their expertise from within school walls. With an intimate exploration of the factors that fan the flames of childhood anxiety, our discussion exposes the harsh reality of how social media, bullying, and the disruptions of the pandemic have reshaped the mental landscape of our youth. We don't just highlight the problem; we dig into the potential long-term effects on a generation grappling with these mental health battles daily.

    Anxiety can feel like a labyrinth with no exit, but Megan and Julia share keys to unlocking paths toward coping and resilience. This episode is a trove of strategies, from grounding exercises to the visually engaging 'rainbow breathing,' that promise more than temporary calm—they plant seeds of lifelong fortitude. We reveal how crucial it is for a nurturing figure to walk alongside children in this journey, arming them with tools to dismantle overwhelming negative perceptions and rebuild them into challenges they are equipped to overcome.

    In the tapestry of support for children facing anxiety, schools play a pivotal role, and our conversation weaves through the ways they can provide solace and stability. Tune in and uncover the importance of open communication, the establishment of comforting routines, and the tell-tale signs that signal a need for professional intervention. For parents seeking solutions, we outline how Unison Health's school-based mental health programs stand as beacons of guidance, and where to find these resources to shelter the emotional well-being of their children. Join us on this heartfelt mission to foster an environment where the mental health of our children is prioritized and nurtured with the utmost care.

    • 24 min
    Insights from the Frontline: Andrew Weaver on Confronting Dual Diagnosis

    Insights from the Frontline: Andrew Weaver on Confronting Dual Diagnosis

    Embark on a profound journey to understanding the tangled web of mental health and addiction with Andrew Weaver from Unison Health, our guide through the maze of dual diagnosis. Andrew, with a wealth of experience in the trenches of addiction and mental health treatment, offers invaluable insights into the unique challenges faced by those who combat intertwined disorders. His expertise illuminates the intertwined nature of these conditions, revealing how they can create a relentless cycle that demands an integrated treatment approach. The conversation is rich with stories from the frontlines, showcasing the delicate balance required in addressing the needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders.

    In this episode, we also shine a spotlight on the role of support systems, acknowledging how vital they are for those feeling isolated in their struggle. We discuss the intricacies of outpatient programs that provide not just treatment, but also a lifeline for many. Andrew and I dissect the critical steps in the treatment process, from rapid assessment to the personalization of care, stressing the importance of patient empowerment. The chapter concludes with a heartwarming tribute to the Unison Health team, a dedicated group of individuals whose commitment to mental health and addiction services has been transformative for the Northwest Ohio community. Join us for this enlightening discussion and come away with a deeper appreciation for the journey towards recovery and the unwavering support that makes it possible.

    • 26 min
    Making lives better for families: Keshia Valentine on Transforming Youth Mental Health with OhioRISE

    Making lives better for families: Keshia Valentine on Transforming Youth Mental Health with OhioRISE

    Embark on a journey into the heart of mental health care with us today as we're joined by the insightful Kesha Valentine, a licensed social worker whose expertise with the Ohio Rise program at Unison Health is nothing short of inspiring. Through Kesha's eyes, we glimpse the transformative power of a program dedicated to children with complex behavioral health needs, a power that's magnified by the commitment to a family-first methodology. What does it take to revolutionize care for these families, integrating therapy, child protective services, and the juvenile justice system? It's all about championing the voices of those often unheard, the children and families at the center of it all—and that's exactly what you'll discover in this episode.

    As the conversation unfolds, we reveal the behind-the-scenes heroes: care coordinators like Kesha, who tirelessly weave together services across various settings to ensure no child slips through the cracks. You'll learn about Unison Health's innovative approaches, including a respite program that turns family and friends into certified caregivers, offering a beacon of hope for those navigating the stormy seas of high needs. Kesha's story and the stories of those she serves remind us of the vital role of these coordinators in shaping brighter futures, one child, one family at a time. Join us for this heartening exploration of how one program, Ohio Rise, is lighting up lives and fostering resilience within communities across the Buckeye State.

    • 18 min

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