Drawing a New Path: Rachael Smith on Healing Through Comic Art
Episode Overview
Janey's experience of witnessing excessive alcohol consumption and the liberating feeling of being free from alcohol Announcement of upcoming events including a live podcast recording and a 'Sober by the Sea' event Rachael's journey of making sense of life, including grief, mental health problems, and addiction through comic art Discussion on the impact of alcohol on mental health and the process of finding healthier coping mechanisms Rachael's honesty and resilience in sharing her personal journey and the hope she aims to offer through her work
Just because you're not as bad as them or as worrying as them, it doesn't mean that you can't make room for more important things in your life.
Ever felt like life’s challenges are too much to handle? In this episode, Janey Lee Grace sits down with comic author Rachael Smith to talk about her journey from self-medicating with alcohol to finding solace in her art. Rachael's latest book, 'Glass Half Empty', dives into her experiences with grief, mental health struggles, and a troubled childhood, all of which she faced head-on during the pandemic.
She candidly shares how the isolation and constant bad news made everything worse, turning alcohol from a party starter to a coping mechanism. But this isn't just a story of struggle—it's one of hope and transformation. Through therapy and creating comics, Rachael found a way to make sense of her feelings and her relationship with alcohol. Her comics became a form of journaling, helping her to process emotions and ultimately feel happier.
Janey and Rachael explore how art can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery. They also touch on the importance of seeking support and making space for what truly matters in life. Janey brings her own insights into the conversation, sharing her experiences and the liberating feeling of living alcohol-free. She also announces exciting upcoming events, including a live podcast recording and a 'Sober by the Sea' event.
This episode is a heartfelt discussion about finding healthier ways to cope with life's ups and downs and the freedom that comes with sobriety. Whether you're struggling with alcohol, mental health issues, or just looking for inspiration, this episode offers a relatable and uplifting message. Tune in to hear Rachael's story and discover how you too can find hope and healing through creative expression.