Episode 20: “A Helpers Heart: Mental Health Support for Caretakers/Caregivers”

An estimated 44 million #Americans age 18 and older provide unpaid assistance and support to older people and adults with #disabilities. Evidence shows that most #caregivers are ill-prepared for their role and provide care with little or no support, yet more than one-third of caregivers continue to provide intense care to others while suffering from #poorhealth themselves. A substantial body of #research shows that #family members who provide care to individuals with chronic or disabling conditions are themselves at risk. #Emotional, #physical, and #mentalhealth problems arise from complex caregiving situations and the strains of caring for frail or disabled relatives (Family Caregiver Alliance www.caregiver.org).

Back for another episode is #TheEmeraldCouch fan favorite, Ms. Amanda Jackson, who will share her experiences of being a caregiver and discuss the rewards and challenges that accompany such an immense task. Tune in now!

Episode 19: “Under New Management: Establishing Work-Life Balance”

The unofficial end of summer is about two weeks away with Labor Day quickly approaching. Most of us who have roles in #academic settings are preparing for classes, creating research agendas, and initiating programs. Those of us in #business/#entrepreneurship are preparing our game plans for the end of the 3rd quarter and the start of the 4th and final quarter of the year. In the midst of so many #transitions, we often forget about the intentionality that it takes to maintain such a hectic #lifestyle and that we need #balance in order to make sure everything gets done. But is work-life balance something that can actually be achieved? If so, what’s the first step?

Moreover, what’s the deeper desire/need behind pushing ourselves beyond our limits at times? How do we balance “getting it done” for our #careeradvancement and making sure that we take care of home at the same time? Tune in to this week's episode as we explore ways to create and maintain balance while continuing to seek #personalfulfillment.

Episode 18: “Let’s Talk About Love, Relationships, & Mental Health”

As the threat of the end of #summer approaches, there is always time for a fresh start and planning for new beginnings, even when it comes to #love.

Research tells us that there can be both positive and negative residuals of love's impact on mental health. While romantic partnerships can be a source of support and #balance, it can also be challenging and stressful. Even under the best possible circumstances, things like communication problems, trust issues, and conflict can plague even the strongest #relationships.

Tune in as we chat live from #TheEmeraldCouch this week with our two special guests, Ms. Teresia Greer & Mr. Jared Williams, and discuss all things #nonnegotiables, #spirituality, and #mentalhealth within love and relationships.

Episode 17 : ”Small Talk: Bridging the Mental Health Gap Across the Medical Community”

August is here and #summer is still in full affect! This week we are joined by our favorite Baton Rouge-based, community health nurse, Mrs. Nicole Scott to discuss bridging the divide between #mentalhealth and medical practitioners. Research and the literature tells us that there is a connection and positive correlation between physical health (medication management, proper nutrition, holistic care) and mental health (cognitive flourishing, increased self-esteem, productivity). So what are we missing? Can’t we all just get along?! We think so and will talk all about it this week!

Nikki is also the founder of Nikki Scott, Inc., which is the sponsor of the popular #YogaNoirProject and #RUOK programs and will share more about what's next for each of those initiatives. Tune in now to learn more!

Episode 16 : “What About the Children?”: Kid-Friendly Mental Health Services

Children’s mental health concerns are real, common and treatable. Although one in five children has a diagnosable mental health problem, nearly two-thirds of them get little or no help. Untreated mental health problems can disrupt children’s functioning at home, school and in the community. Without treatment, children with mental health issues are at increased risk of school failure, contact with the criminal justice system, dependence on social services, and even suicide (www.mentalhealthamerica.net).

Tune in as we are joined this week by Mrs. Rakima Dolliole Parson who is a Licensed Professional Counselor, School-Based Clinical Therapist, and Owner of Centered Counseling and Consulting, LLC in Austin, TX. Listen as she and Dr. Poole discuss her clinical passion for working with children and utilizing #playtherapy, what #mentalhealth looks like when you're #growingupblack, and some of the disparities we see in getting children the services they need in order to flourish.

Episode 15: #InMyFeelings: Overcoming Rejection

As we continue our July discussions of Minority Mental Health Month, this week we explore the most common emotional wound all of us experience and often sustain in our daily lives: rejection. Currently, the viral Drake song, #InMyFeelings explores how the question of shared affection and commitment between two people can make or break a relationship. But what if that person isn't "riding" or "down for you always?"

Rejection can occur in relationships (unrequited love), workplaces (not getting that job or promotion you applied for), entrepreneurship (difficulty raising startup capital, unresponsive buyer community), etc. Regardless of the setting, the emotion feels the same when unchecked. So take a seat on The Emerald Couch as we discuss how the common experience of rejection, when properly processed, can lead to deeper levels of determination, grit, self-confidence, and greater opportunities.