EP 35: Why I'm Sharing My Story - Insights into a Mental Health Journey with your host, Azriela 'Azi' Jankovic

In today's episode, you'll hear a bit about what it's like behind the double doors of a few different psych wards.

This is a window into my personal experience - what I saw, and what I went through.

Last week, for the first time in my near forty years on planet earth, I shared some significant moments from my mental health journey.

Your outpouring of support, encouragement, and connection have been more than I ever could have anticipated.

 It is confirming for me, above anything else, that these topics are important to speak about, and that together, we CAN make a meaningful difference.

The moment I shared on the YSIG Podcast was a focus on one particular mental health episode in 2012 where I wound up inside of a psychiatric institution, committed against my will.

It was not pretty.

 It could have been done better - from so many different angles...

 This matters because the mistakes of the past can be the lessons of today, if we are willing to learn them and share them.

 If only I had known more in 2012 - if only there had been better resources - things would have been different. But we were dealing with what we knew, and what we had. 

We need to continue learning and trying to do better in the field of mental health.

 I foresee a future where there is accessible, compassionate healthcare for mental illness.

Right now, too many are suffering in silence - and the price that is being paid is WAY. TOO. HIGH.

This is why I share.

Last week when I shared the YSIG episode, I posted a pic of myself on social media (pictured on this album cover) that was taken 3 days before I was handcuffed by the police and committed against my will, and I wrote:

Do I look 'crazy' to you?

I didn't think so.

And that's why I share - we NEVER know what battles are happening beneath the surface.

I believe that YOU are MUCH more than any diagnosis. I believe it is HIGH time to end the stigma and to create more compassionate models of care for those who struggle with mental illness.

So, with nothing further, here's my 1st official public share on my show. You can DM me any questions on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azriela_jankovic/or on my FB page: https://www.facebook.com/DrAziJank

Let's Connect:

This week in the Global Women's Circle of Insight, we'll have a short guided meditation on connecting with your highest self. You'll have an option for journaling, a q&a + spiritual learning with me, or to break out into guided mini-discussions and convo. It's gonna be a spiritual buffet. 

 You can sign up here: https://calendly.com/drazi/circle-of-insight-weekly-event-for-women