Kjell Bjorgen: From Panic Attacks to Personal Triumphs
One of the ways that I know that my alcoholism or addiction or mental illness is fucking with me is when I use the words never or always, uh, and am obsessing about the past or the future.
Imagine standing on stage, the spotlight glaring, and suddenly feeling a wave of panic wash over you. This is a reality Kjell Bjorgen knows all too well. In this episode of 'Mental Illness Happy Hour', recorded live in Minneapolis at Sisyphus Brewing, Kjell reunites with host Paul Gilmartin to share a candid conversation about their mental health journeys. They swap stories about bombing onstage, dealing with depression, navigating panic attacks, and grappling with self-doubt.
The episode also touches on the struggles of living in parents' basements, feeling stuck in dead-end jobs, and the all-too-familiar trap of self-sabotage. Kjell's raw honesty about his experiences with meds and future tripping makes this episode a must-listen for anyone who's ever felt overwhelmed by their mental health battles. It's not just about the struggles, though; Kjell and Paul also explore the importance of seeking help, practicing self-care, and finding ways to rebuild relationships and move forward.
Whether you're looking for relatable stories or practical advice, this episode offers a heartfelt look into the complexities of living with mental illness and the hope that comes from vulnerability and support.