Didi Hairston is a mental health advocate who gives a compelling look into life being mentally ill while Black. Unfiltered, dark, and raw, she exposes the stigma and fear associated with mental illness in Black and Brown communities. 

Didi’s mental health advocacy organization is called Diva with Depression. Didi and her organization’s mission is to break the chains of generational shame and trauma regarding mental illness in the Black and Brown communities, ending the passing down of toxic secrets and the stigma of mental illness.

In this episode of Navigating Cancer Together, Didi discusses an important topic closely related to cancer - mental health. Despite not being a cancer patient, survivor, or caregiver, Didi sheds light on the mental health challenges faced by Black and Brown communities. This episode aims to raise awareness and promote understanding of the mental health struggles within these communities. Tune in to gain valuable insights and resources for supporting mental wellness during cancer and life's other journeys.

✨A few highlights from the show: 

[00:01:32] Mental health in black communities.

[00:06:01] Treatment-resistant depression

[00:10:05] Strain on relationships.

[00:13:03] Breaking the Mask of Depression.

[00:16:35] Depression awareness resources.

[00:23:34] Mental health and cancer.

[00:26:01] Finding a support system.

Resources: 

Resources to Recover - https://www.rtor.org/bipoc-mental-health-equity-fact-sheet/ 

NAMI - https://www.nami.org/ 

NAMI Family-to-Family Support Group - https://www.nami.org/Support-Education/Mental-Health-Education/NAMI-Family-to-Family 

Mental Health America - https://mhanational.org/ 

DSM5 Test - https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm/educational-resources/assessment-measures 

 📰 Blog: https://www.ontheotherside.life/post/diving-into-mental-health-with-didi-hairston 

🎭Connect and learn more about Didi:

Website: www.divawithdepression.com 

Instagram: @divawdep, https://www.instagram.com/divawdep/ 

Facebook: @divawdepression, https://www.facebook.com/divawdepression 

Email: divawdep@gmail.com

My guest appearance on Breaking the Mask of Depression. 🔗https://www.podbean.com/ea/pb-aif93-13c5bf8 

🦄About Me:

In 2011, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, out of the blue. I did not have any prior health concerns or issues. Fast forward, the dreaded cancer diagnosis opened my eyes, introduced me to my purpose, and led me to where I am today. 

As a Cancer Doula, I use my 12 years of experience with cancer to support and guide others diagnosed with cancer. Many people are not familiar with what a cancer doula is. Think of me as your personal guide and patient advocate. Schedule a 30-minute Meet and Greet call to confidentially share the challenges you are facing and learn more about how I can support you. https://bit.ly/OTOSDiscovery  

Learn more about On the Other Side at https://www.ontheotherside.life/. Connect with me on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/talayadendy/), or sign up for my bi-weekly newsletter  (https://bit.ly/OTOSNewsletter) to get valuable information and resources that can help you navigate cancer. 

🙏🏼Thanks for joining us for this episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER!

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Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.