108. The Ripple Effect: How One Person's Authenticity Can Inspire a Community of Healing

Today I sit down with mental health influencer Ryan Primer and his Grandma, Donna, for a heartfelt conversation about his anxiety journey. We explore the intertwined struggles of anxiety and addiction, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and authenticity. Ryan shares his tumultuous journey through addiction, marked by relapses and a pivotal moment of clarity that led him to seek help. Grandma Donna and I highlight the crucial role of faith and support systems in recovery, and our conversation underscores the power of human connection and self-compassion in navigating mental health challenges, which offers you a message of hope and resilience. Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX You can find Ryan on Instagram and TikTok @youranxietyislying2yew ______________________________ TIMESTAMPS 0:00  Introduction and Guests 0:56  Ryan's Motivation 1:34  Challenges of Anxiety 2:37  Dr. Russ's Medical School Experience 3:30  Choosing Content to Share 4:29  Facing Social Anxiety 5:34  Benevolent Self-Talk 6:30  Physical Cues for Anxiety 8:15  Fear of Anxiety 9:43  Welcoming Panic Attacks 10:50  Breathing Techniques 11:24  Social Interactions and Anxiety 12:11  Anxiety's Impact on Identity 13:13  Connection Between Adult and Child Selves 14:21  Success Despite Anxiety 15:04  Grandma's Support 16:33  Addiction and Connection 18:29  Overcoming Alcoholism 19:44  Planning Relapse and Rehab 20:41  Turning Point 21:14  The Role of Prayer 21:50  Loss of Faith 22:48  Intention in Prayer 23:28  Burden of Control 24:38  Human Connection 25:28  The Energy of Money 26:45  Addiction and Change 27:17  Hitting Rock Bottom 28:02  Rehab and Personal Choice 28:51  Finding Connection in AA 29:36  The Danger of Isolation 31:03  Social Engagement System 32:37  Environmental Cues for Anxiety 33:28  The Challenge of Seeking Connection 34:51  Influencer Impact 36:27  Helping Others vs. Self-Care