Randi Lee Bowslaugh: Breaking the Silence on Mental Health
People with addictions are people first and foremost. They are people, and they're not just the addict you see on the street, because people used to always say that to me: oh, he's an addict anyways, but he's still my brother.
Ever wondered how someone can turn their struggles into a source of strength for others? Meet Randi Lee Bowslaugh, an author and mental health advocate who’s done just that. In this episode of 'Steps to Sobriety', host Stephan Neff chats with Randi about her battle with depression and how she’s using her experiences to uplift others. Randi, who also hosts the 'Write or Die Show', shares her candid journey through mental health challenges, emphasizing the power of honesty and openness.
She believes that by sharing our struggles, we can help others feel less alone. One of her key messages is that mental health issues are just one part of who we are. As she puts it, 'I have depression, depression doesn’t have me'. Randi also talks about the importance of setting boundaries and being true to oneself, stressing that pretending to be something you’re not only adds to the burden.
Throughout the conversation, she highlights the role of family and friends in supporting recovery, urging listeners to approach those with addictions with empathy and understanding. She recounts how people would dismiss her brother as 'just an addict', underscoring the need to see the person beyond the addiction. Additionally, Randi discusses the therapeutic benefits of writing and other creative outlets, encouraging listeners to use these tools to process their emotions.
Her story is a powerful reminder that self-acceptance and openness can pave the way to healing. Tune in to hear more about Randi’s inspiring journey and her tips for navigating mental health struggles.