Welcome to the latest episode of Speaking Our Minds, where we bring mental health discussions back to basics. Join us as we engage with Savitri Horrigan, our new Behavioral Health Strategist, to explore crucial topics surrounding mental health, suicide prevention, and substance use disorders. With a special focus on LGBTQ+ youth, we uncover the barriers they face in accessing mental health services, the importance of inclusive language, and protective factors that can foster their well-being. Learn about the pivotal role of social support, inclusive communities, and affirming environments in reducing suicide risk among LGBTQ+ youth. Sabitri shares valuable insights from her extensive background in equity and behavioral health, offering resources like the Trevor Project and local initiatives that provide much-needed support and advocacy. Don't miss this compelling conversation aimed at empowering youth and adults alike to create a more inclusive and understanding world, bridging gaps and building stronger communities for all.

Join Iraida Muñoz as she delves into the world of music therapy with Crystal Bloom, Director of Music Therapy at the Nashua Music School. Discover how this nonprofit organization has been enriching lives in the greater Nashua area for 40 years, offering individual music lessons, community programs, and more. Explore the profound connection between music and mental health as Crystal shares insights from her work with people of all ages, from infants to seniors. Learn about the unique ways music therapy can help label emotions and process trauma, making it a powerful tool for people with adverse childhood experiences. Dive into the stories of resilience and transformation through music, and find out how the Nashua Community Music School is creating inclusive, welcoming spaces for the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Whether through private lessons or community outreach, discover the vital role of music in fostering emotional well-being and connection.

Welcome to "Falando de Nossas Mentes," a podcast dedicated to simplifying the conversation around mental health across all spheres of life. In this episode, we are thrilled to introduce you to Omar Vargas, a passionate advocate for youth empowerment, who alongside his supportive family, is on a mission to transform the lives of young people. Omar, a dedicated coach and volunteer, shares his inspiring journey from the streets to being a guiding force for youth. With a profound belief in the power of structure and discipline, he leads by example, providing mentorship and opportunities through the Ron Burton Training Village Program. This initiative focuses on not just physical training, but also mental preparation and educational support, aiming to steer young people away from the streets and towards a bright future. Join us as Omar discusses the challenges adolescents face today, from bullying to the lack of resources, and how his program in Massachusetts aims to expand into New Hampshire. Omar's story is one of resilience, love, and dedication to making a difference, ensuring that every young person knows they are special and has options available to them. Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation with Omar Vargas and his vision for youth in our community.

Welcome to this episode of Speaking Our Minds, where we delve into the complexities of youth mental health. Join us and our special guest, Danielle Crowe, Director of the Nashua Prevention Coalition, as we explore the pressing issues faced by today's youth, including substance misuse, the influence of social media, and the pressures of academic life. Danielle shares her valuable experiences from working with various organizations and highlights the importance of early prevention programs like Red Ribbon Week and the Youth Video Project. We also discuss the critical role parents and caregivers play in supporting their children's mental health at home. Tune in to learn about the Nashua Prevention Coalition's collaborative efforts with local schools to provide education and resources, equipping youth with positive coping skills and strategies to face the challenges of growing up in a fast-paced, digitally connected world.

Join Silvia Petuck, from the Public Health Department of Nashua, as she introduces a thought-provoking episode centered around mental health featuring Renato Fonseca, a mental health professional from Lamprey Health Care. In this episode, Silvia and Renato explore key aspects of mental well-being and discuss the significance of mental health awareness in diverse communities, including Brazilian, American, Spanish, and African communities in Nashua, New Hampshire. Renato shares his journey from his education in Brazil to his current role in the United States, providing insights into his work in cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy. The conversation delves into the importance of therapy, the role of self-awareness, and the challenges faced by immigrants adapting to a new culture, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover the benefits of therapy, the power of self-discovery, and the impact of childhood experiences on adult life. Renato and Sylvia also discuss overcoming cultural barriers and encouraging open dialogue about mental health. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives and practical advice on maintaining mental wellness in today's complex world.

Welcome to the "Speaking Our Minds" podcast, where we simplify mental health discussions for everyone. In this episode, host Iraida Muñoz, a Public Health Equity Officer in Nashua, New Hampshire, engages in a crucial conversation with Dakota from the organization Bridges. Dakota shares insights on recognizing domestic violence, the different forms it can take, and the complex emotions involved. They discuss the cycle of abuse, misconceptions, and the importance of speaking out and seeking help. Bridges provides vital resources such as advocacy, confidential shelters, and a 24/7 hotline to support victims. Join us as we uncover the stigmas surrounding domestic violence, emphasizing the need for education and community awareness. Discover the essential services available and learn how organizations like Bridges play a pivotal role in supporting victims through every step of their journey to safety and healing.

In this episode of "Speaking Our Minds," host Iraida Munoz invites Dakota from Bridges to discuss the complex and sensitive topic of domestic violence. Throughout their conversation, Dakota provides insights into identifying the subtle signs of domestic abuse and the importance of trusting one's instincts. The episode emphasizes the cycle of violence and the role shame and guilt play in silencing victims.Dakota highlights how abusers can appear charismatic and trusted within communities, making it crucial for victims to stay connected with their support systems. The episode sheds light on the extensive work done by Bridges in Nashua, New Hampshire, offering advocacy, education, and resources like a 24/7 crisis hotline to help victims escape abusive situations. This episode also addresses the importance of community involvement and the volunteer opportunities available to aid in domestic violence prevention and recovery.

Welcome to the latest episode of Falando de Nossas Mentes, where we dive deep into the mental health experiences of immigrants arriving in a new nation. Host Sylvia Pitak, from the Department of Health Public Health in Nashua, introduces her guest Marlene Christine Abril. Together, they explore the challenges faced by immigrants, including cultural adaptation, employment hurdles, and psychological impacts. Marlene shares her personal journey and insights into the additional struggles of immigrant women and families, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness and support systems. Listen in and discover how community resources, solidarity, and mental health services can empower immigrants to thrive in their new environment.

Welcome to an insightful episode of 'Hablando de Nuestras Mentes,' where we explore the critical topic of mental health within the Hispanic community. Join us as we converse with Glenda West, a licensed mental health counselor from the Greater Nashua Mental Health Center. Glenda shares her experiences and insights on the pressing mental health issues faced by the community, emphasizing the importance of recognizing warning signs, especially in suicide prevention. In this episode, we delve into the challenges and stigmas surrounding mental health care access, particularly for Spanish-speaking individuals. Learn about the resources available, including the role of bilingual therapists and emergency services, to support those in need. Whether you're seeking to understand more about mental health, looking for ways to offer help, or need guidance on accessing available resources, this episode provides valuable information and encouragement to break the stigma and foster an open dialogue on mental well-being.

Welcome to the second season of "Hablando de Nuestras Mentes", hosted by Lisa Vázquez. In this episode, Lisa is joined by Fabiola, a key member of the Nashua Family Network, as they discuss the importance of community support for parents in Nashua.Fabiola shares her journey from getting involved with local organizations to becoming a founder of a parent-led network that offers essential resources and a safe space for families. The dialogue illuminates the power of community in relieving parental stress and fostering a supportive environment for both children and adults.Discover how Nashua Family Network provides a platform for parents to connect, learn, and grow together while breaking the isolation many face. This episode is a celebration of shared experiences, diverse cultures, and the collective efforts to create a nurturing community for families.

In this episode of "Speaking Our Minds," host Lisa Vasquez is joined by Janice Chewlin, co-founder of the Nashua Family Network, to discuss the invaluable role of a parent network in supporting mental health. They delve into the origin story of the Nashua Family Network, which was built from the ground up by community voices to fulfill a longing for connection among parents. Janice shares how the network serves as a hub for community engagement through events and educational opportunities, fostering both parent-to-parent and parent-to-child connections. The Nashua Family Network not only strengthens familial ties but also promotes resilience and wellness in the community, helping families to thrive. This episode also covers the challenges and triumphs of forming a diverse, inclusive space that honors the rich cultural fabric of the community. Join Lisa and Janice as they explore how community-driven initiatives can make a long-lasting impact on public health and individual well-being.

In this episode of "Speaking Our Minds," Lisa Vasquez sits down with Melanie, a military veteran turned social worker, to discuss the prevalent stigma surrounding mental health in military and first responder communities. Melanie shares her personal journey from serving in the military to embracing a career in social work, highlighting the overlap and challenges within law enforcement and military communities regarding mental health support.The conversation delves into the importance of acknowledging mental wellness as crucial for those in high-stress professions, exploring Melanie's experiences with peers, deployment, and the need for resources that support mental health in these fields. The episode underscores the courage it takes to seek help and the diverse avenues available for mental well-being, ranging from informal peer support to professional counseling.Join us as we aim to break the stigma and open up the conversation on mental health, learning from Melanie's insights and encouraging a supportive environment for all those who serve and protect.

Welcome to an enlightening episode of Speaking Our Minds, where we simplify the conversation about mental health for everyone. Today, we are joined by Paige Beauchemin, an RN with 25 years of experience in maternal wellness, to explore the complex world of perinatal mental health. In this episode, Paige explains the breadth of perinatal mental health conditions, which span from fertility to up to a year postpartum. We discuss the common misconceptions surrounding postpartum depression and highlight the importance of understanding anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other conditions that may arise during this sensitive period. Diving deep into the signs of mental health issues, Paige shares her insights on differentiating between normal parental worries and situations where professional help might be necessary. We also touch on the societal pressures and gender roles that can exacerbate mental health challenges for new parents. Join us as we shed light on the significance of community support, self-care, and the courage to seek help for perinatal mental health. This is an eye-opening conversation filled with practical advice for parents and their support systems. Remember, if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, you can reach out to 988 for immediate assistance. Explore more about perinatal mental health at Postpartum Support International (PSI).

Welcome to "Hablando de Nuestras Mentes", where we break down mental health barriers and explore the journey of finding the right support. In this episode, we dive into the common fears and stigmas surrounding therapy within the Hispanic community.Guest speaker Iraida shares her personal experiences navigating the challenges of accessing mental health services in Spanish and connecting with a therapist who understands her cultural background. Discover the importance of language and cultural compatibility in therapy, and learn about different therapy approaches to find the best fit for you.We also discuss practical tips on how you can seek support without fear or stigma and emphasize the significance of being kind to yourself on this journey. Join us as we continue to make mental health conversations accessible for everyone.

Welcome to "Speaking Our Minds," a podcast dedicated to demystifying mental health by taking it back to basics. In this episode, host Lisa Vasquez delves into the journey of seeking help from a counselor. Confronting the stigma and fear often associated with therapy, Lisa discusses the initial steps of finding a mental health provider suited to individual needs and preferences.Our guest, Mara, shares her personal experience of navigating the process, from the challenges in finding the right counselor to the importance of feeling a connection and comfort with your therapist. We explore the different types of therapies available, from traditional talk therapy to innovative methods like art and music therapy.Join us as we provide valuable tips on how to approach your therapy sessions, ensuring you are open and honest about your needs. This episode encourages listeners to overcome barriers such as language and cultural differences, offering insights into how telehealth and in-person sessions can cater to diverse preferences.

Welcome to "Hablando de Nuestras Mentes," a podcast dedicated to simplifying the conversation around mental health for everyone. In this episode, we delve into the complexities of autism, discussing its communication challenges and the importance of community support. Join us as we sit down with Michelle, the founder of "We Connect Autism Moms," a non-profit organization aimed at creating a supportive network for mothers of children with autism. Michelle shares her personal journey of raising a young child with autism and the motivation behind forming this much-needed support group. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we explore the need for greater autism awareness within our communities, especially among Latino families. Learn how embracing our children's uniqueness and building strong networks can lead to a more inclusive and understanding society.

Welcome to "Speaking Our Minds," a podcast that brings together mental health discussions through the lens of local culture and personal experiences. In this emotional episode, we explore autism through heartfelt dialogues, focusing on community support and the profound journeys of mothers navigating the autism spectrum with their children.Join us from the welcoming environment of Soul Sisters, where we meet Beverly, a dedicated mother and co-founder of "We Connect Autism Moms." This inspiring nonprofit was created to support and connect moms like her, sharing resources, experiences, and offering a helping hand to those embarking on this unique path.Tune in as Beverly and others share their personal stories, the emotional challenges of receiving an autism diagnosis, and the empowering feeling of building a network that provides comfort and guidance. This episode highlights the importance of advocating for timely services, finding beauty in unexpected places, and the necessity of self-care for caregivers.From early diagnosis tips to specialist support, discover profound insights about the autism community, reflecting the powerful role of shared knowledge and compassion in improving outcomes for children on the spectrum.

Welcome to the premiere episode of the 2024 season of "Falando de Nossas Mentes." Join your host, Silvia Petuck, and her special guest, Marlene Abreu as they dive into a critical discussion about cultural machismo and its impact on mental health. This episode highlights the significance of dialogue and equality, emphasizing the long-standing effects of machismo in Latin cultures and beyond. Silvia and Marlene explore how deeply ingrained sexist ideologies can create toxic environments, affecting both men and women. Through their conversation, they shed light on how these cultural norms can be challenged and redefined for healthier relationships and independent mindsets. Listen in as they discuss the role of early upbringing in shaping attitudes, the societal pressures faced by both genders, and the importance of breaking free from traditional norms to foster mental well-being. Don't miss the opportunity to understand the importance of emotional intimacy and the power of confronting machismo for a balanced life. If you're in Nashua and wish to explore more about mental health support, Silvia encourages you to reach out to their local services. Enjoy the meaningful insights in this episode and be part of the change towards mental health awareness and equality.

Bienvenidos de nuevo a la segunda temporada de "Hablando de Nuestras Mentes"! En este fascinante episodio, grabado en la barbería La Fama, La anfitriona Lisa Vasquez profundizan en el intrincado tema del machismo y sus efectos perjudiciales en la salud mental de los hombres. Acompañadas por el invitados especial Lilo Y Gersy Almonte, la conversación arroja luz sobre cómo las normas culturales arraigadas contribuyen al estrés, la ansiedad y la depresión entre los hombres. La conversación comienza con una definición clara de machismo, explorando sus orígenes y cómo se manifiesta en las expectativas familiares y sociales. Nuestros invitados enfatizan la importancia de abordar este tema a través de la educación y el diálogo abierto, especialmente dentro de las comunidades hispanas, donde la salud mental sigue siendo un tema tabú. A lo largo del episodio, los invitados comparten perspectivas personales y abogan por soluciones impulsadas por la comunidad para desmantelar estereotipos dañinos. Proponen pasos prácticos, como programas educativos en escuelas, lugares de trabajo y centros comunitarios, para fomentar la inteligencia emocional y expresiones saludables de la masculinidad. Únase a nosotros mientras exploramos cómo la sociedad puede avanzar más allá de constructos anticuados para crear un entorno más inclusivo y de apoyo para todos. Este episodio es un llamado a la acción para que los oyentes contribuyan a un cambio cultural que abrace la vulnerabilidad y el bienestar emocional de los hombres.

Welcome to Season 2 of "Speaking Our Minds," where we delve into the intricate dynamics of mental health. This episode, recorded live at a fatherhood group meeting, tackles the pervasive issue of machismo, or toxic masculinity, and its impact on men's mental health and familial relationships.Join host Lisa and special guest Robert Ortiz as they explore how traditional notions of masculinity can lead to anxiety, depression, and strained relationships. Hear personal stories from fathers and male caregivers who are challenging stereotypes and redefining what it means to be a man in today's society. The discussion covers the importance of emotional expression, the power of physical contact, and the need for paternal involvement in child-rearing.This episode is a heartfelt exploration of how breaking down toxic masculinity can lead to healthier relationships and communities. Tune in and be part of a conversation that seeks to empower men to embrace vulnerability and emotional connectivity.