The Ultimate Guide to Mental Wealth
Mental Health Magazine
MENTAL HEALTH ACTIVIST ADVOCATING FOR YOUTH
MENTAL HEALTH EMBRACING & NAVIGATING
THE HOLIDAYS: COPING WITH EATING DISORDERS LIZ MEDINA
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TIPS TO EASE
SEASONAL DEPRESSION
VOL. 6 NUM.2 $11.99
ISSN 0268-965
9 7770268 968930
Meet Our Newest Contributors
Vol. 7 Num. 1 SUBSCRIBE
Stan Popovick Stan Popovich is the author of the popular managing fear book, “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear”. For more information about Stan’s book and to get some free mental health advice, please visit Stan’s website at http://www.managingfear.com
EDITOR TEAM Liz Medina A multi-skilled entrepreneur, Liz Medina calls herself an ADHD Barbie because she has ADHD & has her hands in many different things. Liz is an entrepreneur, a mental health, ADHD, & eating disorder advocate, a writer, a creative, an ADHD accountability coach, & a networker. Liz has written poems & children’s books and started a mental health & mindset company with her wife called Persevere & Win, with a passion to help their
Founder/Editor Chief : Nikita Powell-Cottman : TJ Woodard Managing Editor Asst. Managing Editor : KeErica Brown : Paul Cottman & Vanity Dawson Associate Editor : Kena’l Hollingworth Fashion Editor : TJ Woodard Beauty Editor : RJ Sterling Comic Illustrator Therapy’s Dope Editor: Amanda Fludd, LCSW-R : Yeny Ferreras Graphic Designer
community and give back. Liz enjoys networking, meeting new people to grow with, planning events, & starting new projects. She is also an ADHD Accountability Coach & helps people with ADHD stay accountable for reaching their goals & become more productive. You can find her & their mental health company on Instagram: @ adhdgrowthcoach & @persevereandwin.
RUM FEAUTURES MENTAL HEALTH ACTIVIST
Mary Lawal
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Ms. Mary Lawal is a mental health activist and speaker. She is passionate about educating and creating awareness surrounding mental health to end the stigma. Mary is a volunteer of NAMI Baltimore where she been able to share her mental health story in different communities, advocated for youth mental health care on the news, been in the halls of USA congress advocating for teens girls mental health. Mary started her own mental health awareness club on PGCC’s campus. Also, she have done many panel discussions surrounding mental health topics.
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Stan Popovick TJ Woodard Vanity Dawson Talona Smith KeErica Brown Kendra Hathaway, MFT Torre “Tor” White SherVonne Grose, MFT Amanda Fludd, LCSW-R Liz Medina
YOUTH CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Princess Nina
RallyUp Magazine Photo Credits: Stock photos, Canva, Shutterstock, Unsplash, Pexels.
Lisence & Copy Right
Copyright © 2018 RallyUp Magazine. No portions of the publication can be transmitted, reproduced, or distributed in any form without contacting Founder Nikita Powell-Cottman. All articles have been reviewed and approved by Founder Nikita Powell-Cottman. To contribute or to be interviewed contact rallyupmagazine@gmail.com. Disclaimer: RallyUp Magazine does not take the place of therapy or any mental health services. Some articles and stories may be triggering. If you or someone you know has a mental health emergency please call 988 or go to your local emergency room This Magazine Published By: We Fight Foundation, Inc First Published, 2018
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FOUNDER’S
Thoughts
Dear Esteemed Readers and Supporters, I extend my heartfelt greetings to each and every one of you, acknowledging the profound impact your unwavering support has had on our mental health magazine.Your presence in our movement, #RallyUp2SaveLives, is the bedrock of our collective efforts. In a world where mental health discussions often face the veils of stigma, our united endeavors have become a potent force in normalizing these vital conversations. Together, we are breaking down barriers, fostering resilience, and, most significantly, working towards putting an end to the heartbreaking epidemic of suicide. Let us continue to collectively commit to prioritizing our mental strength. May we be beacons of support and grace for those navigating their internal struggles. Each one of us possesses the power to make a positive impact, and sometimes, a simple act of kindness or understanding can serve as a lifeline for someone facing the complexities of mental health. Our magazine stands as a testament to the power of shared stories, expert insights, and the collective wisdom of our community. It serves as a wellspring of mental encouragement, offering diverse perspectives and resources that cater to the unique journey of each individual. In every page, we aim to instill hope for mental wealth — a wealth that transcends material possessions and resonates deeply within the corridors of our minds. As we embrace this new year, let us carry with us the
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lessons learned, the strength gained, and the hope kindled within our hearts. May our shared journey continue to foster a sense of community, understanding, and above all, resilience. Thank you for being an integral part of our mental health family. Together, let’s make this year one of continued growth, compassion, and mental well-being.
Founder/Editor in Chief
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EXPRESSIVE ART CORNER
EXPRESSIVE ART CORNER
United We Stand By: Liz Medina
In a time of progression, All I see is regression. Regressing back to hating people for the color of their skin, to the hate of how people express themselves from within. From constant genocide, shootings, to even a book ban, And the homophobic people that yell, “go be with a man!” They say that history repeats itself, but there are many things to leave behind. If we take an eye for an eye, then we’ll all go blind. I’m tired of standing by and not being able to do anything, I’m scared that soon will be the day that we hear the angels sing. Leave the racism and violence,the sexism, the hate. Bring back the empathy for one another, then America can really be great.
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We are all different, but our hearts beat the same. Our bodies are all similar, we all have a brain. So why see others as anything other than people? In a land of opportunity, I don’t see anything that’s equal. We won’t forget what happened to the elders that came before us, Like slavery, rape, and segregation on the bus. Crazy thing is that it wasn’t long ago, and it lasted many years. For a long period of time, our ancestors have wept many tears.
xpressive arts are E powerful ways for people to express their
emotions. Those who suffer from mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, etc., can also benefit from expressive arts therapy. Many people use poems, narratives, and other spoken words to promote well-being and healing. It is a multimodal approach that utilizes various methods, including writing, music, visual arts, drama, and dance, to help people achieve personal growth.
Until we stand united, We will keep getting divided, Until the day that everyone hears.
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FAITH & MENTAL HEALTH
Faith & Mental Health
FINDING STRENGTH IN SPIRITUALITY By TJ Woodard testament to the strength that comes from a deep-rooted belief system, empowering individuals to overcome obstacles with grace and courage. The Therapeutic Aspects of Spirituality: Mindfulness and Meditation Many faith traditions incorporate practices like mindfulness and meditation. These practices encourage presence and awareness, allowing individuals to experience the moment without judgment or distraction. This mindfulness can reduce stress and anxiety, fostering a sense of calm and mental clarity. A Journey of Hope and Healing
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n the intricate tapestry of life, where mental health plays a crucial role, faith stands out as a vibrant thread, weaving patterns of hope, resilience, and inner peace. This article delves into the profound impact of faith on mental wellbeing, offering inspiration and motivation to those navigating the complexities of the mind and spirit. The Healing Power of Faith: Faith as a Beacon of Hope In times of turmoil and uncertainty, faith can be a guiding light. It offers a sense of hope when circumstances seem bleak, reminding us that there is a larger narrative at play, one that transcends our immediate struggles. This hope is not just a feeling; it’s a powerful force that can shift perspectives, inspire action, and lead to tangible changes in mental health. Resilience is born from belief. Faith imbues believers with resilience. It provides a framework to understand and endure life’s challenges, offering comfort and solace in the knowledge that there is a purpose behind trials and tribulations. This resilience is a RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM
Community and Connection is an essential aspect of faith. Faith often brings people together, creating communities bound by shared beliefs and values. This sense of belonging can be incredibly therapeutic, offering support, understanding, and a shared space for healing and growth. In these communities, individuals find companionship and a mirror reflecting their journey towards mental wellness.
and enhances your mental well-being. The Synergy of Faith and Mental Health The intertwining of faith and mental health is a journey of discovery, healing, and growth. It’s about finding strength in belief, comfort in community, and peace in spirituality. As you navigate your path, remember that faith is not just a concept; it’s a lived experience that can transform, uplift, and inspire.
Remember, faith can be a powerful ally in mental health, guiding you toward a future filled with hope, resilience, and inner peace.
Personal Stories of Faith and Healing: Testimonies of Transformation The power of faith in mental health is perhaps most vividly seen in personal stories of transformation. These narratives, filled with challenges and triumphs, highlight the extraordinary capacity of faith to heal and transform. From coping with anxiety and depression to finding purpose after loss, these stories are beacons of hope and resilience. Embracing Faith in Your Mental Health Journey: A Personal and Unique Path Faith is a deeply personal experience, and its role in mental health is unique to each individual. The key is to explore and embrace faith in a way that supports
TJ Woodard is a certified ICF Life & Business Coach. She is a devoted advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. She is also an active duty service Airman, podcaster, mentor and 4x Amazon’s Bestselling author and has helped push many others into their purpose. For more information, visit www. tamikawoodard.com
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HEALTH &
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& Wellness
UNRAVELING THE CONNECTION: VITAMIN D AND DEPRESSION By Niki Powell-Cottman
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epression, defined by the National Institute of Mental Health as a common and sometimes severe mood disorder, has profound impacts on daily life, affecting mood, eating, sleeping, work, and the ability to enjoy once-cherished activities. In exploring potential connections between mental health and nutrition, Vitamin D emerges as a key player, being a fat-soluble vitamin obtainable through food, supplements, or sun exposure. However, striking a balance is essential, as both deficiency and excess can be detrimental to the body
Moving Toward a Solution: Although the relationship between Vitamin D and depression requires further investigation, the correlation is undeniable, especially in contexts like seasonal depression. The positive impact of sunlight exposure on mood suggests that increasing Vitamin D intake through safe sun exposure or supplementation may be beneficial. While uncertainties persist, the consensus is that enhancing Vitamin D levels doesn’t harm and may aid in minimizing feelings of sadness and depression.
The Vitamin D link to Depression: Research suggests a positive link between Vitamin D and depression, though the precise nature of this connection remains elusive. Studies examining depressed individuals often reveal low Vitamin D levels, prompting curiosity about the role of this vitamin in mental and emotional well-being. The alteration of neurotransmitter synthesis rates by Vitamin D is proposed as a mechanism that could mitigate depression symptoms, yet the causality remains undetermined. A literature review in the article Depression and Vitamin D Deficiency: RALLYUPMAGAZINE.COM
Causality, Assessment, and Clinical Practice Implications” emphasizes a significant relationship between depression and Vitamin D deficiency. Seasonal Depression and Vitamin D: Consideration of seasonal depression adds another layer to this exploration. Seasonal depression, prevalent during fall and winter when sunlight exposure diminishes, prompts speculation about the role of reduced Vitamin D levels during these periods. While many factors contribute to depression, the correlation between seasonal depression and decreased sun exposure suggests a potential link to Vitamin D.
As the exploration of the Vitamin D and depression connection continues, the evidence points to a noteworthy relationship, urging both researchers and the public to delve deeper into preventative measures and treatment strategies. Whether combating general depression or the seasonal variant, increasing Vitamin D intake through various means becomes a simple yet potentially impactful step toward improving mental and emotional wellbeing.
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