🚨 Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sensitive mental health topics. 🚨
Get ready to tune in to a story of resilience, transformation, and the power of healing in “Part 1 - Mental Breakdown to Breakthrough: An Artist’s Journey Through Therapy with Guest Ruth.” We’re peeling back the layers of a deeply personal narrative that begins in the turmoil of the '70s and takes us on a journey right through the heart of struggle and strength. This is not just any story; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome.
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The attached worksheet is a tool to help you process Ruth's episode and what she went through and how you might handle a situation like this in your own life or in a loved one's life.
Today on our podcast, we're excited to introduce Ruth, a remarkable woman with a story of resilience and transformation. Ruth graduated with a professional degree in architecture from Pratt Institute in 1981, but her life took an unexpected turn in 1977 after a college party incident led to recurring, severe nervous breakdowns. Despite these challenges, Ruth persevered, working in the male-dominated construction field, traveling alone abroad, and completing her degree. In 1985, she found a turning point with the right medical support, leading to more manageable health episodes. Embracing change, Ruth shifted her career to fine art painting in 1988. A breakthrough came in 1999 with effective medication, and since 2010, she has been living without breakdowns. Ruth's journey is chronicled in her 2020 memoir, "Journey of the Self-Memoir of an Artist," a testament to her strength and adaptability.
Here’s a sneak peek into our episode that comes out on Tuesday March 26th, 2024 at 3 AM EST
🌟 Episode Highlights: 🌟
The Unexpected Turn at Dennis’ Party: Hear how a single incident involving a PCP-laced brownie spiraled into a seven-year cycle of nervous breakdowns.
The Chilling Winter Breakdown: Discover the harrowing story of Ruth’s breakdown during the coldest winter, resulting in frostbite and a psych ward stay.
The Battle Against Stigma: Delve into Ruth’s struggle with the 1980s’ stigmatization of mental illness and the uphill battle she faced in seeking effective treatment.
✅ Lessons Learned: ✅
Substance use can have profound and lasting impacts on mental health.
Access to proper mental health care is essential for recovery.
Personal transformation is possible, even in the face of systemic failures.
The journey from extroversion to introversion can deeply affect one’s sense of self.
The power of storytelling can pave the way for healing and understanding.
🔑 Key Takeaways: 🔑
The Importance of Trust: Learn why a trusting relationship with therapists is crucial for successful mental health treatment.
Stigma and Systemic Failure: Gain insight into the detrimental effects of mental health stigmatization and systemic shortcomings.
Resilience Through Adversity: Understand the remarkable strength it takes to persist through repeated challenges and how one can emerge stronger.
😄 A Fun Fact from the Episode: Did you know Ruth discovered a hidden talent for painting during her recovery? Art became her sanctuary and a medium to express her journey!
🎉 Exciting Podcast Updates:
Next week, catch “Part 2 of Ruth’s Story” and the following week, don’t miss our Season Ending Episode featuring “Dirty Skittles and I” giving a recap of Season 5.
We’re now 6 weeks behind on our episodes between recording and release dates. So if you get confused by an event the episode was probably recorded 6 weeks ago
We record 4 new episodes one Saturday a Month
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT - Dirty Skittles and G-Rex have been asked to participate in the FREE event below being put on by Valerie Probstfeld from To Mom is To Love.
Please make sure that you register.
WHAT: Conversations with Mental Health Experts, Entrepreneurs, and Thought Leaders
WHEN: Friday April 12th – 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Eastern
Who do YOU want us to interview next? Got a burning question for Dirty Skittles or me? Head over to our website and drop us a voice mail or send an email.
Don’t forget to tune in, subscribe, share with friends, and leave us a glowing review if you love what you hear!
🔊 Until next time, keep listening, keep learning, and let’s continue this journey together.
P.S. Remember, your story matters, and it’s never too late for a breakthrough. 🌈✨
Artist and Writer Our Guest Ruth Poniarski
With warmth and kindness,
G-Rex and Dirty Skittles
P.S. We’d love to hear your thoughts on the episode and your own stories of overcoming mental health challenges. Connect with us on Social Media our Links are below, and if you’re moved by our journey, consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing the podcast. Your support means the world to us!
G-Rex & Dirty Skittles
It's ok to be not ok, just make sure you're talking to someone
