EP 134 | Special Episode | Wellbeing Wednesday's with Chuck Ingolia

HINESIGHTS Podcast

In this episode of Wellbeing Wednesdays, I had the chance to open up about my journey as a mental health advocate. Sharing my story has always been deeply personal for me, especially now as I talk about my new children's book, *The Dimly Lit Star*. It’s a project close to my heart that aims to teach kids about resilience, particularly in the face of bullying—a struggle I know all too well. As I reflected on the staggering rise in youth suicide, especially among Black children, I felt a weight on my shoulders. This isn't just statistics; these are lives, families, and communities impacted by pain. I want to stress how crucial it is to seek help and foster resilience in ourselves and our kids. It’s a message that feels more urgent every day. During our conversation, I shared some practical strategies for mental wellbeing—things like the importance of nutrition and exercise, which have been lifelines for me. These practices are simple but powerful, grounding us in moments when we feel lost. I also talked about how my advocacy work has evolved over the years. Social media has become a double-edged sword; while it can spread awareness, it can also amplify negativity. I try to use my platform to spread hope and encourage conversations that matter.