Chris Fairbanks: Finding Light in the Darkness of Dementia
Episode Overview
Chris Fairbanks shares his experiences growing up around dementia and alcoholism The link between pain, creativity, and mental health is explored Discussions on peer acceptance and dealing with dark thoughts Insights into the impact of family struggles on personal growth Encouragement to seek support and open up about emotions
There's so few things that we can solve on our own and yet it's so hard when we get stuck to want to have to explain this shit to somebody else to have to listen... It's much easier to just... live in our heads.
Imagine growing up with a parent battling alcoholism, Alzheimer's, and dementia. In this compelling episode of 'Mental Illness Happy Hour', comedian and skateboarder Chris Fairbanks opens up to host Paul Gilmartin about his mother’s struggles and how they shaped his life. Chris, known for his humor and co-hosting the podcast 'Do You Need A Ride?' with Karen Kilgariff, doesn't shy away from the tough topics.
He shares how pain has fueled his creativity and the challenges of seeking peer acceptance while dealing with dark thoughts. Both Chris and Paul exchange chilling stories about encounters with death, adding a raw layer to their conversation. This episode isn’t just about the hardships; it’s also about finding solace and support through humor and creativity. If you’re looking for a heartfelt discussion that blends laughter with profound insights into mental health, this episode is a must-listen.