Michelle Hammer: Turning Schizophrenia Into a Catalyst for Change
Honestly, I'm going to share with you my um, a friend of mine. So that's why I stopped um my mental health advocacy, because he was like a mentor to me and, like when that happened, it really it threw my whole perception off and I'm like you know what.
What happens when someone turns their personal struggles into a mission to help others? Michelle Hammer, a native New Yorker and Schizophrenia Activist, shares her compelling journey on this episode of Instinctive Talk. Diagnosed with schizophrenia at 22 after a misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder at 18, Michelle faced numerous challenges but found a way to channel her experiences into something positive.
At 27, she launched Schizophrenic.NYC, a mental health-focused clothing brand aimed at reducing stigma and sparking conversations about mental health. Host Jason Insalaco dives deep into Michelle's story, exploring how she uses her artistic talents and fearless personality to advocate for the mental health community. Michelle discusses the hurdles she faced during her diagnosis journey and how these experiences fueled her passion for activism. Her brand, Schizophrenic.NYC, isn't just about clothing; it's about creating awareness and understanding.
Listeners will hear about Michelle's appearance in the WebMD documentary Voices, which was nominated for a Tribeca X Award at the Tribeca Film Festival 2018. This episode isn't just an interview; it's a testament to resilience and the power of turning personal pain into a force for good. Whether you're dealing with mental health issues yourself or supporting someone who is, Michelle's story offers inspiration and practical insights.
Tune in to hear how one woman's journey through misdiagnosis, recovery, and advocacy can inspire us all to look at mental health with more compassion and understanding.