Speaking UP About a Mental Health Crisis: Confronting Stigma and Seeking Safety with Pamela R. O’Neill

Join the riveting conversation with Pamela R. O'Neill, a dedicated youth and family counselor with a story of adversity and advocacy for mental health. Pamela lays bare her soul, recounting her upbringing in a religious family, the profound impact of her uncle's schizophrenia on her mother that served as an example for her first career choice, and her own tribulations during the 2020 pandemic.

The chilling account of her colleague's murder by a mental health patient casts a somber shadow, exposing the stark realities and inherent dangers that mental health professionals encounter daily when working in a residence. The episode is an eye-opener on the dire need for systemic change, emphasizing the significance of speaking up about mental health stigma and advocating for safer work environments.

As we traverse Pamela's journey, she shares the therapeutic release she found in penning her book, "Speaking Up About Mental Health," during the isolating times of the pandemic immediately after the death of her colleague.

The importance of self-advocacy and safety in the face of organizational silence and some strategies to harness mental health crises are laid out with clarity and compassion by Pamela during this episode.

Pamela R. O'Neill speak up for her story to serve as a beacon for those navigating the daily ups and downs of mental health, both personally and professionally. Her courage to voice the often-unspoken truths shows the power of empathy and the critical need for solidarity and safety among those at the forefront of mental health care.

Pamela's introductory bio

Pamela O'Neill is a former journalist and social worker who has dealt with mental health issues both personally and professionally. Through her calling as a mental health coach, she facilitates open communication about mental health and is building a community that will work together to end its stigma. She will guide you in the discovery of your courage to speak up about any issue you feel afraid, anxious, or unclear about addressing. Pamela believes in each person's ability to regain their confidence, be healthy, and thrive. While at home in Canada, she hopes to reach a global audience with her service.

Connect with Pamela

on her website: www.pamelaroneill.com

by email: info@pamelaroneill.com

on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/speakingUPaboutmentalhealth/ 

on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakingupaboutmentalhealth 

on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamelao1

Do you care about getting featured and published on Real Talk Real Women Breaking The Silence Around Abuse, alongside Pamela R. O'Neill and our other wonderful inspiring guest speakers?

Apply here: https://apply.realtalk-realwomen.com

Here are a few keywords to help you find this episode faster: Mental Health, Mental Illness, Workplace Safety, Trauma, Advocacy, Stigma, Empathy, Writing, Isolation, Community, Speaking Up, Systemic Issues, Protocols, Crisis Management, Social Workers, Support, Counseling, Pandemic, Violence

From Hell to Health with Anya Nicholson

Join us as we welcome the indomitable Anya Nicholson, the queen of resilience and empowerment in the health and wellness community, who bravely shares her journey from the shadows of abuse and many seemingly insurmountable health crises to the light of recovery and finding her soul purpose.

Listen in as Anya shares her life story, scarred by sexual trauma and severe health challenges. Anya details her path to healing through the power of natural remedies and emotional fortitude in her remarkable health journey.

We delve into the pain that lurks within cycles of familial abuse and the fraught road to validation and boundary-setting amidst such deep-seated trauma. Anya sheds an unflinching light on the flaws of our medical system that fails some of us and the culture of silence that often leaves survivors without the protection and recognition they need for their recovery. Her courage in speaking out is a profound call for societal change, and her insights offer solace and solidarity to those whose voices have also been dismissed or unheard, like hers.

In the throes of our discussion, Anya shares her toolkit for mending the wounds of trauma, underscoring the vital role of wellness practices in her own recovery. From the therapeutic embrace of meditation to the grounding power of connecting with nature, she presents a blueprint for others navigating their healing journeys. Her dedication to helping others rediscover joy and hope is as unwavering as it is inspiring, and her story serves as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity, making the seemingly impossible look achievable.

Anya's short introduction in her own words

From Hell to Health!

I’m Anya, a former forensic accountant turned Wellness Coach.

I help people get their lives back like I did and doing so gives me immense joy! I was sick for 13 years and faced many challenges including Sheehan's Syndrome which is a brain injury caused by hemorrhaging during childbirth, SAI, EDS, MCAS, POTS, and more.

With the help of fruit, cold-pressed juice, and a high raw vegan diet I’ve lost 120 pounds and kept it off, healed most of my conditions, learned to manage the rest naturally without medication, and I’ve emerged healthier and stronger than I ever was before. I was dismissed by the medical system and had to learn to manage my health conditions by myself to stay alive.

I’m on a personal mission to help others avoid what I went through and to see what is possible by showing how I healed myself and helping you do the same.

Connect with Anya Nicholson

on her website: www.anyanicholson.com

on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anya.nicholson

Do you care about getting featured and published on Real Talk Real Women Breaking The Silence Around Abuse alongside Anya Nicholson and our other amazing guest speakers? 

Apply here: https://apply.realtalk-realwomen.com

Here are a few keywords to help you find this episode: Trauma, Healing, Abuse, Empowerment, Resilience, Sexual Violence, Wellness, Recovery, Natural Healing, Emotional Mastery, Survivors, Family Trauma, Boundaries, Prevention, Meditation, Sun Gazing, Breathwork, Raw Vegan Diet, Supportive Community

I never truly understood the depth of emotional scars until Karen Fullerton, a certified quantum energy practitioner, walked me through her profound journey of healing. Her story, marked by struggles with emotional neglect and self-abuse, sheds light on the invisible wounds many of us carry and the critical importance of facing them head-on. In our heartfelt conversation, Karen teaches us to view emotions not just as feelings but as frequencies that shape our reality. She opens up about her childhood experiences, illustrating how these vibrational energies can either ensnare us or set us free, depending on our ability to recognize and transform them into joy and liberation.

Throughout this episode, we traverse the transformative path of emotional awareness and self-empowerment. Karen encourages us to become present with our emotions, to sit with them and observe them without judgment as a means to catalyze change. We delve into the power of vibrational frequencies in shaping our life experiences and how they can help us attract what we truly desire. The episode is rounded off with a discussion on the union of music and emotional healing, and we peek into "The Seven Insights to Emotional Wellness," Karen's online course which promises to revolutionize how we deal with our emotions and guide us toward a state of emotional well-being. Join us on this journey as we learn to harmonize our inner frequencies and create a life resonating with happiness and health.

Karen Fullerton in her own words

Don’t give up. Spiral Up.

It took the closing of my marketing business and filing bankruptcy before I allowed feminine energy principles, spirituality, and a bit of physics to co-create my strategy for my most fulfilling success: Founder of The Sergei Foundation—a nonprofit organization raising more than 1 million dollars to save the lives of more than 5,000 pets for lower-income families. 

Connect with Karen Fullerton

on her website: https://karenfullerton.com/

on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-fullerton-speaker/

by email: team@karenfullerton.com

Do you care about getting featured and published on Real Talk Real Women Breaking The Silence Around Abuse alongside Karen Fullerton and many of our other wonderful guest speakers?

Apply here: https://apply.realtalk-realwomen.com

Here are a few keywords to help you find this episode faster: Emotional Scars, Quantum Energy Practitioner, Healing, Emotional Neglect, Self-Abuse, Invisible Wounds, Emotional Awareness, Vibrational Frequencies, Emotional Wellness, Music Integration, Emotional Healing, Self-Empowerment, Emotional Triggers, Mind, Emotional Roots, Self-Paced Course, Seven Insights, Transformation, Music, Nature, Gratitude, Wisdom, Emotional Well-Being

When I came into contact with Jennifer Ramirez Solarte, whose strength emanates like a lighthouse guiding ships through stormy nights, her voice struck me. The silence that shrouds the topic of abuse was shattered as we choose to do on this show, revealing the path she bravely took from hell to heaven, and the beacon of hope her organization, &RISE, casts for women facing similar hardships. Our conversation passed by the harrowing landscapes of Jennifer's childhood sexual abuse and domestic violence, the kind that too many know yet too few speak of. She shared how these experiences informed the powerful mission behind &RISE, illuminating the critical steps involved in breaking the cycle of abuse and advocating for those still entangled within its grasp.

Jennifer's story unfolded like a roadmap for transformation, marking each pivotal turn from recognizing toxic patterns to embracing self-worth and setting boundaries. Her narrative showcases her belief that our past doesn't have the final say over our future. She detailed the profound journey toward self-love, a destination reached through self-reflection, personal growth, and the art of flying solo to mend one's wings. As we discuss the chapters of her life, what emerged was the profound clarity that true, healthy relationships are a reflection of the love and respect we afford ourselves. Jennifer's voice, imbued with both vulnerability and valor, stands as an invitation to listeners to find their own courage, to speak out, and to join a collective journey toward healing and empowerment.

Jennifer's bio

Jennifer Ramirez is an author, entrepreneur, trauma life coach, reiki master, and speaker who is passionate about helping women live their best lives after trauma and abuse. She is the Founder of the nonprofit organization, &Rise, whose mission is to empower women to be the ultimate versions of themselves no matter their adversities.

Jennifer has years of experience working with survivors and provides trauma-informed care to those she works with.

Jennifer is a passionate advocate for all women and offers prevention education to help empower and educate women on healthy relationships, red flags, and healthy coping skills.

Connect with Jennifer Ramirez Solarte

by email: jennifer@womenrisechicago.org

on her website of &RISE: https://www.womenrisechicago.org/

on her Facebook page of &RISE: https://www.facebook.com/womenrisechicago

on her Facebook profile: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.ramirez.106 (She got married in 2024 and changed her name from Ramirez to Solarte)

Do you care about getting featured and published on Real Talk Real Women Breaking The Silence Around Abuse alongside Jennifer and many of our other wonderful guest speakers?

Apply here: https://apply.realtalk-realwomen.com

here are a few keywords to help you find this episode: Abuse, Domestic Violence, Endwise, Empowerment, Self-Love, Toxic Relationships, Healing, Advocacy, Childhood Trauma, Mental Health, Financial Education, Career Development, Boundaries, Manipulative Behavior, Self-Reflection, Healthy Love, Conflict Resolution, Self-Care, Fulfilling Relationships, Positive Impact, Uplifting Work, Dialogue, Resources.

Grief has a way of reshaping our lives in unimaginable ways, and no one knows this better than Dr. Barbara Hopkinson, who joined us to share her story of heartbreaking loss and remarkable resilience. Her journey through the sorrowful terrain of losing her children and husband, coupled with the sting of an online romance scam, lays bare the vulnerabilities we all face in our search for connection. Dr. Barbara's creation of A Butterfly's Journey, a nonprofit dedicated to guiding others through their grief, stands as a beacon of hope, proving that our deepest pain can catalyze profound transformation and support for others.

Through our candid discussion, Dr. Barbara peels back the layers on the often-overlooked emotional toll of online scams, especially on those who have already endured great personal loss. Her personal path to self-forgiveness after such a betrayal underscores the message that healing is not just possible, but that it can also lead to empowerment and helping others. By serving on the board of a women's crisis center, Dr. Barbara brings insights into the many forms of abuse and loss, ensuring that our conversation doesn't just stop at awareness, but also leads to actionable support and the nurturing of resilience, one phone call, one photo, and one story at a time.

Dr. Barbara J. Hopkinson's bio

Dr Barbara J Hopkinson is founder of A Butterfly’s Journey™ (ABJ), a nonprofit for resilience after loss, as well as The Compassionate Friends (TCF) of Greater Newburyport, MA. TCF is part of the largest grief recovery organization in the world (supporting family after a child dies). She is also a Grief Recovery Institute certified Advanced Grief Recovery Method (GRM) Specialist, speaker, best-selling author, and retired IBM executive who remains resilient after the loss of 3 children, her husband, an infant brother, her parents, and sight in one eye.

Her background is in global corporate technology for several industries, including 10 years at IBM. She received ‘TWIN – Tribute to Women in Industry’ from the YWCA. Later in her career and since her retirement, Barbara has led families through the journey of grief for 20 years.  During that time, she received awards; ‘Top Professional in Resilience After Loss’ and ‘Empowered Woman’ awards from IAOTP (International Assn of Top Professionals) as well as being inducted into the WAW (Women Appreciating Women) Hall of Fame. Most recently, Barbara was named LOANI (Ladies Of All Nations International) Leader for Resilience and she also received an honorary doctorate in Humanitarianism from GIA (Global International Alliance) plus a President Biden Lifetime Achievement Award for her nonprofit service.

Barbara is author of a memoir titled “A Butterfly’s Journey… Healing Grief After the Loss of a Child”, and the first in a series of photo books “Faces of Resilience”, as well as co-author of 8 other books. Barbara is a member of IAOTP, LOANI, and GSFE (Global Society of Female Entrepreneurs).

Dr Hopkinson lives north of Boston, near her adult son, stepchildren, their partners, and her five grandchildren.  Her favorite role is ‘Nana.’’ She also loves travel, cooking and photography.

Connect with Dr Barbara

More info/non-profit resources: http://abutterflysjourney.org

Tel: +1 617-410-6309 

Email: info@abutterflysjourney.org

Do you care about getting featured and published on Real Talk Real Women Breaking The Silence Around Abuse alongside Dr. Barbara and our other amazing inspiring guest speakers? 

Apply here: https://apply.realtalk-realwomen.com

Discover why ignoring the whispers of our bodies can lead to life-altering consequences as Deidre Miller, founder of 365elevate LLC, shares her emotional saga of surviving two strokes. With vivid detail, Deidre recounts the chilling day that her world turned upside down, painting a picture of the confusion, fear, and the monumental fight for life that ensued. Her experience is a stark reminder that the signs our bodies give us are not to be overlooked, and that timely action can be the difference between life and death. 

Embark on a journey of transformation with us as Deidre reveals how her darkest moments fueled her mission to empower women through her platform, 365 Elevate. Witness the evolution of a stroke survivor who turned pain into purpose, inspiring countless individuals along the way. Deidre's story of resilience and faith serves to encourage each of us to harness the power of positive thinking and take that crucial first step toward a life of happiness and fulfillment, trusting our intuition, this inner voice that keeps on guiding us in the right direction. Join us as we celebrate the strength of the human spirit, the importance of mentorship, and the bonds that we forge in our shared quest for a brighter tomorrow.

Deidre Miller's bio

My name is Deidre Miller. Originally from Texas, now residing in North Carolina before returning to Atlanta Georgia.

My purpose and mission is to uplift, inspire, and empower women across the world to stop chasing their dreams and live them through overcoming the paralysis of fear, not letting their past become their prison but their fuel for change. Take their power back by striving to become a better version of themselves, embracing their ambitions, conquering challenges with confidence and transformative mindset, and the blueprint to discovering their purpose, passion, and power. Unleashing their inner warrior from the kitchen table to boardroom table.

I am a passionate, successful thought leader, author, transformational speaker & coach, consultant, and the Founder and CEO, 365 ELEVATE, LLC. I have spent 28 years in Corporate America, and 20 of those years in a Management/Leadership capacity. I have earned three degrees in Business, Finance & Accounting. Oh, let’s not forget my PHD in the school of hard knocks. Even with all the experience and education, I still had to fight my way up the corporate ladder and life through a divorce, motherhood, bankruptcy, a tango with death twice, the first time not being able to physically handle the pressure of life, and 2nd time by my own hand. Coupled with bouts of anxiety and depression. After being in corporate America for so long, I realize that women are still struggling with the pressures and challenges of life and suffering in silence whether in business or their personal lives.

Connect with Deidre Miller

on her website: https://365elevate.org

on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Three65Elevate/

on Instagram: https://instagram.com/three65elevate

Do you care about getting featured and published on Real Talk Real Women Breaking the Silence Around Abuse alongside Deidre Miller and many other guest speakers?

Apply here: https://apply.realtalk-realwomen.com

When echoes of a tumultuous past give way to a symphony of empowerment, Kerri Lewis' tale stands as a beacon of transformation. In a raw and revealing conversation, Kerri takes us through the labyrinth of her life, marked by the scars of abuse and the shackles of addiction. Her journey is one of courage and conquest, where the love for her twin sister and the sorrow of losing her older sibling serve as her inner drive toward a new chapter in her life. Her story, weaving through childhood's dark alleys into the light of self-acceptance, demonstrates the profound impact of authenticity on recovery and the ripple effect it has on those around us. Kerri's experiences remind us that to navigate the treacherous waters of our own struggles, we must first anchor ourselves in truth and self-awareness.

This episode is an exploration of the soul's resonance when we dare to harness the energy within and redirect it toward healing and growth. We uncover the intricate dance of emotions and energies that define our existence, recognizing that our darkest moments often harbor the seeds of our greatest strengths. As Kerri illustrates the power of personal symbols, like skulls transforming from a sign of darkness to one of protection, we are invited to reflect on our own symbols of transformation. The narrative culminates in a call to action, beckoning us to embrace the challenging work of self-reflection, to heal our wounds, and pave the way for a life enriched with love, generosity, and compassion. With Kerri as our guide, we're offered a map to chart a course through the tumult of our past, towards a future where our true selves are not just acknowledged, but celebrated!

Kerri Lewis' introduction in her own words

I'm Kerri Lewis, Addiction and Mental Health Recovery Coach and Motivational Speaker. I gut you like a fish so that you can break old patterns of behavior and recognize ingrained negative beliefs that don't support you in living a joyful and fulfilling life. If you want to experience a life free from addictive behaviors and mental unrest, reach out and let's change the way you live!

I am a coach dedicated to guiding individuals who are weary of merely going along with the flow, particularly those ensnared in the grip of addiction, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. My mission is to empower them to break free from the shackles of an unfulfilling life and transition from mere existence to full, vibrant living.

My passion lies in aiding individuals in discerning what genuinely nourishes their well-being, addressing the roots of addiction, anxiety, and depression, and offering unwavering support to guide them towards a life of intentional design.

I specialize in instilling new behaviors that foster a healthier mind, body, and spirit. Through targeted efforts, we work together to reprogram limiting beliefs and cultivate new perspectives that align with a fully expressed life. With my support, you will cultivate a heightened self-awareness, dismantle obstacles hindering your authentic self, and adopt life-transforming strategies to create a more fulfilling reality. Together, we embark on a journey of overcoming addiction, managing anxiety, conquering depression, and navigating other mental health obstacles to achieve lasting well-being.

Connect with Kerri Lewis

on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerrilewiscoaching

on her website: https://kerrilewis.coach/

send her an instant video on-the-go introducing yourself on her mobile phone directly (her favorite way of communication, including WhatsApp): +1 571 320 5206

Do you care about getting published and featured on Real Talk Real Women Breaking The Silence Around Abuse alongside Kerri Lewis and our other wonderful guest speakers? 

Apply here: https://apply.realtalk-realwomen.com

Hello there, Gemma is speaking.

When the weight of the world's suffering pressed heavily on my shoulders, a conversation with author Anikka McKeever shed light on a path through the darkness. Together, we journeyed into the tender and painful question of where the Divine resides when pain and injustice seem to reign, especially for the innocent ones among us. Our discussion took an illuminating turn as we engaged with spiritually elevated beings, who urge us to look within and grasp our role as architects of our existence. They implore us to recognize our power of free will and the solace found in the divine forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ's sacrifice, providing a fresh perspective on the role of a higher power in our lives.

Navigating the complex terrain of belief and the presence of evil, we discovered a divine expression in the biblical story of Moses and the Burning Bush, which reveals God's timeless essence. Through personal narratives, including a heart-wrenching story of a young girl's abortion after repeated rape from her priest, we grappled with the deafening silence of God in moments of despair. This chapter of our lives illuminated the truth that such silence can be an invitation to grow, to deepen our trust in forgiveness, and to protect our spiritual well-being. We found gratitude for the chance to explore these spiritual pathways and share them with you, which has culminated in the anticipation for continued explorations into faith and the divine journey ahead.

Gemma's bio