Paul Gilmartin
Paul Gilmartin
Episode 178: Anna Akana
Episode 178: Anna Akana
Episode 178: Anna Akana
Friday 20th June 2014
Anna Akana discusses family trauma, her sister's suicide, and overcoming mental health struggles on 'Mental Illness Happy Hour'.
Explicit
114 minutes
Inspiring
Empowering
Informative
Hopeful
Compassionate
About this podcast
Author:
Paul Gilmartin
Overview:
Categories:
Body & Mind
Sobriety Toolkit
Healing from Sexual Trauma
Healing Relationships
Financial Health in Recovery
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Episodes:
638 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Anna Akana: Navigating Family Trauma and Mental Health Battles
I know that at my lowest I feel like I should be physically low and at least a couple of times I've laid down on the ground on the floor, grinding my wet phlegmy, sobbing face into the wood, because I feel like I deserve to be even lower than the ground.
Ever wondered how family expectations and personal tragedies shape our mental health? In this episode of 'Mental Illness Happy Hour', Anna Akana lays bare her life's toughest moments. Growing up with a Japanese father and Filipino mother, Anna faced immense pressure to be perfect. Mistakes were simply not an option. The devastating loss of her sister to suicide only added to her struggles, leading her down paths of lying, drug use, and sex addiction.
Anna's journey isn't just about the dark times, though. She shares how therapy became a lifeline, offering a safe space to explore her emotions without fear of judgment. Finding the right therapist and sometimes using medication were key steps in her healing process. Anna's story emphasizes the importance of seeking help and not facing mental health issues alone. Creativity also played a crucial role in Anna's recovery.
Making videos and short films helped her process her emotions and connect with others facing similar battles. She highlights how finding healthy outlets for our feelings can foster a sense of community and understanding. Sex addiction is another significant topic Anna tackles. She discusses the shame and secrecy that often surround it, encouraging listeners to be honest with themselves and seek support if needed.
Her openness about her struggles aims to break down stigmas and create a supportive environment for others dealing with similar issues. Throughout the episode, Anna underscores the power of vulnerability and sharing personal stories. By opening up about her own experiences, she hopes to build a community where people feel less alone in their struggles. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of overcoming trauma and finding strength in vulnerability, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in mental health advocacy.