My initial reason for wanting to learn more about mental health and mental illness came as a result of my own diagnosis of PTSD. I had always believed that PTSD was associated with the military and war. As a survivor of abuse, I learned so much more about myself, my triggers, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a whole. When I started on my journey of domestic violence awareness, I wanted to make sure that self-care, the encouragement of counseling, and receiving tangible resources were all emphasized. I’m thankful to work with others who share the same passion, and our activities have become welcomed signatures in the community.
I’ve elected to make mental health and mental illness one of my signature subjects to speak and present on because these subjects impact how we show up in the world. There is still so much stigma around seeking help and support. I am someone who has survived and now thriving personally and professionally. But that could not happen without counseling, a positive support system, and being honest about my experiences and the ways my life has been impacted by them. Attending a support group has been helpful as I have experienced others who are close to me who are dealing with feelings and situations that I once experienced. I love what I do in business and advocacy. My lived experiences and my transparency in sharing them have been freeing for me. But I’m extremely honored and humbled when someone shares how they’re able to relate and something they’ve gotten from what I’ve shared.
I, like so many, am extremely saddened about the loss of Stephen tWitch Boss. I know what it’s like to contemplate suicide. It’s so sad to know that he felt suicide was the only way to find peace. My prayers are with his family, friends, loved ones, and the communities at large. I am still finding myself thinking of Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst and how thankful I am to have spent time with her and share the stage with her. She was so encouraging and complimented me and my work. I’m grateful we could enjoy some BBQ and conversation about a myriad of things. I am reminded of the laughs that she, my husband, and I shared. These are two of many young, gifted, beautiful people who struggled to live. I will continue to do all I can to educate others while ensuring that I work on my own mental health and wellness. Counseling and talking about all topics around mental health and mental illness should be celebrated as self-care strategies for healing rather than viewed as a stigma and a sign of weakness. There is strength in acknowledging that one needs and desires help and support.
I’m especially pleased to be one of the presenters this month. The May virtual workshops are focused on Mental Health Awareness. As always, they are free to attend. These monthly workshops are sponsored and hosted by Grow with Google, Innate Success, Dress for Success Memphis & Joyce Kyles Consulting. Discussions around mental health are professionally and personally important to me. I personally believe they need to be mandatory for all places of employment. Our mental health plays a very important role in our physical health and our ability to show up as our best selves in all areas of our lives and those for whom we are responsible.
I had the privilege of being the keynote speaker at Harvard University last week for the American Association of Mental Illness’ annual conference. The students pictured are the AAMI board of directors for the school’s chapter.(The event was not a Harvard specific event). Talking about mental illness is very important to me, and seeing these young people coming together to bring about more awareness and resources was great. They also streamed the event to other chapters across the U.S.
While the event was not a Harvard specific event, my being on that campus as a speaker is an experience that I will not soon forget. I’m was a fairly good student in high school. But attending an Ivy league school required credentials that I was not academically strong enough to meet. However, my professional education and personal, lived experiences continue to demonstrate my strengths and knowledge to contribute to society in my own purposeful way.
I appreciate the AAMI Boston Chapter for the opportunity to keynote the conference!
This month is all about Women’s Empowerment and Health and Wellness. We invite you to join us for these monthly workshops which are free of charge. If you’ve not yet participated in one of these workshops, this is a great time to get started. We invite you to share with others and attend as many as you can. These are sponsored and organized by Innate Success, Dress for Success Memphis, Joyce Kyles Consulting and Grow with Google.
2019 is in full swing. Where are you in your current mental and physical state? The topic is likely what you think it’s about, but I’m taking a deeper and more candid look at holistic health and wealth as we progress in 2019. It will be fun, interactive, and informative. Each attendee will leave with some tangible resources/action plan with my promise to provide a follow up/check in for accountability. Just bring yourself and an open mind. Everything else will be provided. We’ll have food, fun, and fellowship!
RSVP using CashApp: $JoyceKyles or with PayPal: joyce@joycekyles.com
Date: February 23, 2019 Time: 11am to 1pm Location & Additional Info: Provided upon RSVP Cost: $20
My initial reason for wanting to learn more about mental health and mental illness came as a result of my own diagnosis of PTSD. I had always believed that PTSD was associated with the military and war. As a survivor of abuse, I learned so much more about myself, my triggers, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a whole. When I started on my journey of domestic violence awareness, I wanted to make sure that self-care, the encouragement of counseling, and receiving tangible resources were all emphasized. I’m thankful to work with others who share the same passion, and our activities have become welcomed signatures in the community.
