In this second episode of our series for May Mental Health, we're joined by Daniel Hayes, a farmer from South Carolina. Daniel is a different kind of guest than we've had before - generally, our guests who come to speak with us about mental health and other struggles are women. It's difficult to find men who are willing to talk about their struggles with mental health, addiction, and other issues, let alone speak about it publicly. We're really grateful to Daniel to breaking that ceiling for our series, but especially for you, our listeners, and the communities we all belong to. Daniel opens up about his struggles with substance abuse. He is very honest and forthright about how he got there, and how hard, but ultimately worth it, his recovery was and continues to be. There may be some hard parts of this episode to listen to for some of our listeners, but if you're able, we encourage you to tune into Daniel's conversation, perspective, and message of hope.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges or addiction, please consider these resources as a first step to finding the help you need.
If you or someone you know needs help with mental health challenges or substance abuse, please reach out. Here are some resources to consider:
Lifeline Chat and Text is a service of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline connecting individuals with crisis counselors for emotional support and other services via web chat or texting 988.
The American Psychological Association has many great resources for whatever distress you may be experiencing. Visit apa.org to find resources including:
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741
Narcotics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous
Gamblers Anonymous
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline
(800) 662-4357
and many other excellent resources for all kinds of support and difficult experiences.
Please, please reach out for help if you are hurting. You are loved, you are worthy, you are needed, you are wanted. You don’t have to do this alone.
With love and hope, Katharine and Valene