As a parent, it can be so incredibly difficult to talk to your teen or young adult about mental health. My guest Ty Strawford taught me the most important question to ask anyone who might be struggling: What do you need?
At just 21years old, Ty’s accomplishments are nothing short of inspiring. As the co-creator of Invisible Mental Health and the We See You event, he has dedicated himself to helping those who are battling mental health issues. What makes his work even more remarkable is his commitment to engaging men in the conversation – a demographic often overlooked in the discussions about mental health.
A Suicide Attempt
Ty’s journey into advocacy began after a pivotal moment in his life – a suicide attempt that led him to realize the value of his own life and the desire to make a meaningful impact. From that moment of clarity, Ty embarked on a mission to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and create a supportive community where individuals can openly share their struggles.
One of the key themes that emerged from our conversation was the power of community. Ty emphasized the importance of creating spaces where people feel comfortable expressing their emotions and seeking support. He highlighted the challenges faced by men who often feel pressured to conceal their vulnerabilities due to societal expectations. This was another big ah-ha moment for me as a parent of a son who does not tend to share his feelings easily.
Valuable Insights, Especially for Parents
Throughout the interview, Ty shared valuable insights into coping mechanisms and self-care strategies. He stressed the importance of communication, urging everyone to reach out and not suffer in silence and emphasized the significance of finding what works best for us, since our needs are unique.
Tune in and Listen
If you are a parent or know someone who is struggling with mental health, I strongly encourage you to listen to episode 5 where I interview this incredible young man who is a fountain of information regarding mental health.
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