This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and understanding in their mental health journey, featuring Rissa Reel's powerful story of resilience and advocacy.
More info & ways to connect - https://www.tacosfallapart.com/podcast-live-show/podcast-guests/rissa-reel
In this episode of Even Tacos Fall Apart, I had the privilege of speaking with Rissa Reel, a passionate mental health advocate. Rissa’s journey into advocacy stems from her personal experiences with mental health challenges, shaped by her upbringing and her own battles with mental illness.
Rissa shared that her mother had bipolar disorder, which led to drug addiction and her eventual death four years ago. This traumatic experience, coupled with a childhood marred by abuse and neglect, profoundly impacted Rissa. She took on the responsibility of raising her four siblings, including one with cerebral palsy. These early life experiences set the stage for her advocacy work, emphasizing the importance of mental health support and awareness.
After the birth of her second daughter, Rissa was diagnosed with postpartum depression, OCD, and PTSD. These diagnoses were crucial turning points, propelling her to seek help and understand the importance of mental health. Her personal struggles became the foundation of her advocacy, driving her to help others navigate their mental health journeys.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Rissa's advocacy is her physical journey to raise awareness. On June 22nd of this year, she embarked on a walk from Michigan to Kansas, covering nearly 800 miles. This journey was not just a physical challenge but a testament to her dedication to mental health awareness. Along the way, Rissa faced numerous hardships, including extreme heat, mosquito bites, and sleeping in unconventional places like under bridges and in parks. Despite these challenges, she encountered incredible kindness from strangers who offered water, food, and even shelter. These acts of kindness reinforced her belief in the power of community and support.
Throughout her walk, Rissa aimed to show people that they are not alone in their struggles. Her main message is that it's okay to not be okay and that everyone matters. She emphasized that mental health issues affect everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. By sharing her story, Rissa hopes to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage others to seek help.
Rissa’s advice to those struggling with their mental health is simple yet powerful: keep pushing forward. She highlighted the importance of reaching out for support from friends, family, or mental health professionals. Her mantra, "Your survival rate so far is 100% because you are here today," serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience inherent in everyone. Rissa believes that every step forward, no matter how small, is progress and that everyone's story has the power to make a difference.
Rissa reiterated that mental health is a journey filled with ups and downs. She encouraged listeners to continue the conversation around mental health and support each other along the way. For those seeking more interaction, Rissa is active on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, where she continues to share her journey and advocate for mental health awareness.
This interview with Rissa Reel underscores the importance of perseverance, community, and the power of sharing personal stories to combat the stigma surrounding mental health. Her dedication to her cause and her willingness to share her own struggles serve as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges.
