Reduce The Stigma

More Than Just Treatment: The Importance of Social Determinants

Join us for an insightful discussion with Dr. Orlando Wright, a leading authority in behavioral health, as he explores the critical role of social determinants of health. Discover how social workers are shaping the future of healthcare through innovative approaches like care measurement and iSocialWork. Learn how these advancements are transforming the way we address whole-person care and improve overall well-being. Don’t miss this conversation on the evolving impact of social work in enhancing health outcomes.
Links
Dr. Orlando Wright: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drorlandowright/
Haylon Clinical: https://halcyonclinical.com/
iSocialWork: https://isocialwork.com/
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com

The Hidden Struggles: The Reality of Perimenopause

In this episode, Whitney sits down with Jessica Von Erlendson , a certified yoga therapist and advocate for women’s health, to discuss the complexities of perimenopause and menopause. With over 9,000 members in her Canadian support group, Jessica is changing the conversation around these life stages. Together, they explore the stigma, emotional and physical changes, and societal challenges that women face as they navigate these natural phases of life. Tune in to learn about how Jessica is empowering women through education, community, and inclusivity.
 
Links
Canadian Perimenopause and Menopause Support: http://canadianperimeno.com/coaching/
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com
Jessica's FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/m8vKnzH8ydUtYKa7/
https://cpms.ck.page/symptoms ; Follow this link to get your copy of the comprehensive symptoms list and sign up for my occasional newsletter.  This can be used to show your doctor, monitor your symptoms and your progress as you add in new medications, supplements or lifestyle changes.
https://insighttimer.com/JessicaMyrnaRae/guided-meditations/20-mins-tongue-drum-soothing-tones ; Anxiety is one of our most troubling symptoms and this track is a soothing balm for frazzled nerves.  You don't even need to listen to it for it to work.  The patterns of 2's & 3's work to calm your nervous system effortlessly.

Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Join us for this special episode of Reduce the Stigma as we celebrate National Down Syndrome Awareness Month! In this heartfelt episode, Whitney interviews six incredible individuals who share their stories and experiences as part of the Down Syndrome community.
We kick things off with Greg Coni, President of the Down Syndrome Association of Pittsburgh (DSAP), who highlights the organization’s programs, including the highly anticipated fashion show. Meredith Peterson, former DSAP Executive Director, shares the story behind starting this unique event, which celebrates individuals with Down syndrome through fashion and self-expression. Plus, hear from four amazing models—Macee, Hannah, Justin, and Teresa—who shined on the runway, showcasing their talents and passions. These inspiring guests remind us of the importance of inclusion, advocacy, and presuming competence in everything we do.
Don't miss this uplifting celebration of abilities, joy, and community. Let's raise awareness, break down stigmas, and make it a better world—together! 

A Life-Saving Mission: The Importance of Harm Reduction

Join Whitney for a candid conversation about harm reduction and its crucial role in preventing overdose deaths. Discover the myths surrounding harm reduction and learn how simple actions like carrying Narcan and accessing test strips can save lives. Our guest, Narcan Nate, shares his personal experiences and advocacy work to promote harm reduction and reduce the stigma associated with substance use. Don't miss this informative and inspiring episode as we explore the power of harm reduction to save lives.
 
Links
Nathan Smiddy: @narcan_nate, https://linktr.ee/narcannate
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com

The Warrior Within: Unlocking Your Potential in Recovery

Discover how to unlock your potential in recovery with the Warrior Within program at Steel City Recovery. This holistic approach focuses on mental health and wellness to help you reach your full potential.
Join Whitney as she interviews Patrick Bibza, founder of Steel City Hardcore Recovery, a veteran and licensed social worker dedicated to physical, mental, and spiritual growth. Patrick shares his journey as a warrior in recovery, overcoming addiction and trauma, and his mission to help others transform their lives. Discover the power of resilience recovery, and connection as they discuss the importance of community, mental health, and wellness.
Links
Steel City HxCx Recovery: https://www.steelcityhxcxrecovery.com/
What should we tackle next? https://syndicate12.com/rts-unfiltered-next-topic/
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com
 
Reduce The Stigma is sponsored by Straight Up Care, the telehealth platform empowering lived experience. If you're in need of support, check out Straight Up Care - where shared lived experience powers recovery.
 
Are you an organization supporting individuals with substance use and/or mental health lived experience, a relevant content creator, or a person with lived experience involved in advocacy and want to join us for a conversation? Complete this form.

Unlocking the Potential of Advocacy A Conversation with Nikki Soda

In this episode of "Reduce the Stigma of Recovery Conversations," Whitney speaks with Nikki Soda, Executive Director of Soda's Consulting. Nikki shares her passion for advocacy, public policy, and addiction treatment. From creating National Hill Day to pursuing her master's in addiction policy, Nikki is dedicated to making a difference. She discusses bridging treatment centers with public policy and community leaders to drive meaningful change. Learn how advocacy can empower anyone to make a positive impact in this powerful conversation.
 
Links
Nikki Soda: https://sodasconsulting.com/
Straight Up Care: straightupcare.com
Watch our episodes: ReduceTheStigma.com, Youtube.com
https://facesandvoicesofrecovery.org/
https://www.naatp.org/
https://www.asam.org/
https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/
https://www.recoveryvoices.com/

Navigating Teen Mental Health in a Changing World

Join us for Reduce the Stigma Unfiltered as we tackle the pressing issue of teen mental health, a topic often avoided but crucial to address. Sponsored by Straight Up Care, this episode dives into the alarming statistics and the role technology plays in shaping the mental health of our youth. From cyberbullying to the pressures of social media, our experts share insights on how we can better support our teens. Let's break the silence and make a difference together.
Links
Connect with Talynn: https://straightupcare.org/consultant-profile/5411116
Connect with Patrick: https://www.steelcityhxcxrecovery.com/
Connect with Dr.Mo: https://straightupcare.org/consultant-profile/451
The Alcohol Reset: book-https://www.amazon.com/Alcohol-Reset-66-Day-Guided-Break-ebook/dp/B0BVK4Z4SH

Secret to Long-Term Recovery Success

In this episode, we discuss the importance of building recovery capital beyond treatment. Learn about valuable resources for long-term recovery. On this episode of Reduce The Stigma, Kurt Lebeck, a dedicated recovery scientist specializing in substance use and co-occurring disorders, shares his journey from working in trades to becoming a leading advocate in recovery capital, blending personal experiences with professional insights to transform behavioral health programs. Kurt delves into his work with peers, his unique approach to recovery capital, and the powerful impact of community-driven support systems. A must-watch for anyone interested in recovery, resilience, and making a difference.
Connect with Kurt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-d-lebeck-1853185/

Unlocking Secrets to Enhance Recovery Community Support

Join us as we discuss building a stronger recovery community and the importance of resources, community support, and transitional care in the recovery process. Together, we can support one another on the path to healing and growth! Today on Reduce The Stigma, Whitney speaks with Robert Cooper, CEO of Zero Hour Life Center ( @zerohourlifecenter9112  ) in Florida, about the power of community in the recovery journey. Rob shares his inspiring story, from incarceration to founding Zero Hour, and his commitment to helping others in their recovery. Join us as we explore the importance of community connections and collaboration in fostering long-term recovery. Visit Zero Hour Life Center: https://www.zerohourlifecenter.org/

From Amsterdam to America: A Different Approach to Addiction Care

Follow the journey from Amsterdam to America and discover a different approach to addiction care. Learn about recovery, mental health, and overdose prevention. In this episode of "Reduce the Stigma," host Whitney explores the stark contrast between overdose deaths in the U.S. and the Netherlands. Joined by Wes and Savannah, students from the University of South Dakota, they discuss their eye-opening experiences studying addiction treatment policies in Amsterdam. They delve into the Netherlands' emphasis on harm reduction, the decriminalization of soft drugs, and the country's holistic approach to treating substance use disorders. The conversation highlights how these practices differ from the U.S. system and offers insights into potential improvements for American healthcare.