Additional Resources
Breaking the Silence on Mental Health While Keeping Cultural Identity with Vivien Lee
Vivien Lee recalls the first inklings of an existential crisis when she was eight years old. As she grew older, Vivien endured severe trauma. As the oldest of several children in a family that was part of Minnesota’s Hmong community, mental health was not something that was discussed in her family.
Supporting Mental Health Across Cultures
For care professionals, providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed support means taking the time to understand each person’s unique background. By approaching these differences with curiosity rather than judgment, professionals can build trust, foster meaningful connections, and communicate more effectively.
Gender Identity and Mental Health in the Family with Aaron and Asher
Dr. Michelle K. Murray sits down with her brother Aaron and nephew Asher to discuss Asher’s journey with depression, anxiety, and OCD, and how discovering his gender dysphoria helped him find clarity and self-acceptance. Aaron shares how he and Asher’s mom supported him along the way, guiding him toward a more peaceful and confident place.
Ana Marie Cox on Alcohol and Having to Become Your Parent’s Parent
Journalist and podcaster Ana Marie Cox opens up about growing up too soon — taking care of her alcoholic mother, navigating divorce, and facing her own struggles with addiction. In this powerful conversation with Dr. Michelle K. Murray, Ana shares how she turned pain into purpose, finding healing, sobriety, and peace with her past.
Helping Teens Build a Healthier Relationship with Social Media
Social media is a primary source of connection for many, but it’s crucial—especially for youth—to balance online interaction with real-life socialization. Being intentional about how we engage with content and having open and honest conversations about responsible usage can help set boundaries that support mental well-being.
From Struggles to Strength
Robin faced challenges dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety. His relationship with his mother had been strained, and after experiencing the loss of loved ones, his way of coping led to a lot of anger. Robin took charge of his healing journey and found support at Nexus-Woodbourne Family Healing.
Talking to Teens About Social Media
Social media isn’t inherently harmful, but it can amplify stress, anxiety, and comparing ourselves to others, particularly for youth whose brains are still developing. Since the pandemic, many teens have leaned on social platforms for connection. While that’s understandable, it’s more important than ever to help them balance online interaction with real-life relationships.
Moon Zappa Found Peaceful Mental Health After a Childhood of Chaos
Author and artist Moon Zappa opens up about growing up in chaos — with a famous but absent father, a volatile mother, and a childhood marked by pain and people-pleasing. In this candid conversation with Dr. Michelle K. Murray, Moon shares how therapy and self-awareness helped her understand her past and find peace, healing, and growth.