Welcome to the latest episode of Speaking Our Minds, where we bring mental health discussions back to basics. Join us as we engage with Savitri Horrigan, our new Behavioral Health Strategist, to explore crucial topics surrounding mental health, suicide prevention, and substance use disorders. With a special focus on LGBTQ+ youth, we uncover the barriers they face in accessing mental health services, the importance of inclusive language, and protective factors that can foster their well-being.

Learn about the pivotal role of social support, inclusive communities, and affirming environments in reducing suicide risk among LGBTQ+ youth. Sabitri shares valuable insights from her extensive background in equity and behavioral health, offering resources like the Trevor Project and local initiatives that provide much-needed support and advocacy.

Don't miss this compelling conversation aimed at empowering youth and adults alike to create a more inclusive and understanding world, bridging gaps and building stronger communities for all.

Join Iraida Muñoz as she delves into the world of music therapy with Crystal Bloom, Director of Music Therapy at the Nashua Music School. Discover how this nonprofit organization has been enriching lives in the greater Nashua area for 40 years, offering individual music lessons, community programs, and more.

Explore the profound connection between music and mental health as Crystal shares insights from her work with people of all ages, from infants to seniors. Learn about the unique ways music therapy can help label emotions and process trauma, making it a powerful tool for people with adverse childhood experiences.

Dive into the stories of resilience and transformation through music, and find out how the Nashua Community Music School is creating inclusive, welcoming spaces for the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Whether through private lessons or community outreach, discover the vital role of music in fostering emotional well-being and connection.

Welcome to "Falando de Nossas Mentes," a podcast dedicated to simplifying the conversation around mental health across all spheres of life. In this episode, we are thrilled to introduce you to Omar Vargas, a passionate advocate for youth empowerment, who alongside his supportive family, is on a mission to transform the lives of young people.

Omar, a dedicated coach and volunteer, shares his inspiring journey from the streets to being a guiding force for youth. With a profound belief in the power of structure and discipline, he leads by example, providing mentorship and opportunities through the Ron Burton Training Village Program. This initiative focuses on not just physical training, but also mental preparation and educational support, aiming to steer young people away from the streets and towards a bright future.

Join us as Omar discusses the challenges adolescents face today, from bullying to the lack of resources, and how his program in Massachusetts aims to expand into New Hampshire. Omar's story is one of resilience, love, and dedication to making a difference, ensuring that every young person knows they are special and has options available to them. Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation with Omar Vargas and his vision for youth in our community.

Welcome to this episode of Speaking Our Minds, where we delve into the complexities of youth mental health. Join us and our special guest, Danielle Crowe, Director of the Nashua Prevention Coalition, as we explore the pressing issues faced by today's youth, including substance misuse, the influence of social media, and the pressures of academic life.

Danielle shares her valuable experiences from working with various organizations and highlights the importance of early prevention programs like Red Ribbon Week and the Youth Video Project. We also discuss the critical role parents and caregivers play in supporting their children's mental health at home.

Tune in to learn about the Nashua Prevention Coalition's collaborative efforts with local schools to provide education and resources, equipping youth with positive coping skills and strategies to face the challenges of growing up in a fast-paced, digitally connected world.

Join Silvia Petuck, from the Public Health Department of Nashua, as she introduces a thought-provoking episode centered around mental health featuring Renato Fonseca, a mental health professional from Lamprey Health Care. In this episode, Silvia and Renato explore key aspects of mental well-being and discuss the significance of mental health awareness in diverse communities, including Brazilian, American, Spanish, and African communities in Nashua, New Hampshire.

Renato shares his journey from his education in Brazil to his current role in the United States, providing insights into his work in cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy. The conversation delves into the importance of therapy, the role of self-awareness, and the challenges faced by immigrants adapting to a new culture, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Discover the benefits of therapy, the power of self-discovery, and the impact of childhood experiences on adult life. Renato and Sylvia also discuss overcoming cultural barriers and encouraging open dialogue about mental health. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives and practical advice on maintaining mental wellness in today's complex world.

Welcome to the "Speaking Our Minds" podcast, where we simplify mental health discussions for everyone. In this episode, host Iraida Muñoz, a Public Health Equity Officer in Nashua, New Hampshire, engages in a crucial conversation with Dakota from the organization Bridges. Dakota shares insights on recognizing domestic violence, the different forms it can take, and the complex emotions involved. They discuss the cycle of abuse, misconceptions, and the importance of speaking out and seeking help. Bridges provides vital resources such as advocacy, confidential shelters, and a 24/7 hotline to support victims.

Join us as we uncover the stigmas surrounding domestic violence, emphasizing the need for education and community awareness. Discover the essential services available and learn how organizations like Bridges play a pivotal role in supporting victims through every step of their journey to safety and healing.

In this episode of "Speaking Our Minds," host Iraida Munoz invites Dakota from Bridges to discuss the complex and sensitive topic of domestic violence. Throughout their conversation, Dakota provides insights into identifying the subtle signs of domestic abuse and the importance of trusting one's instincts. The episode emphasizes the cycle of violence and the role shame and guilt play in silencing victims.

Dakota highlights how abusers can appear charismatic and trusted within communities, making it crucial for victims to stay connected with their support systems. The episode sheds light on the extensive work done by Bridges in Nashua, New Hampshire, offering advocacy, education, and resources like a 24/7 crisis hotline to help victims escape abusive situations. This episode also addresses the importance of community involvement and the volunteer opportunities available to aid in domestic violence prevention and recovery.

Welcome to the latest episode of Falando de Nossas Mentes, where we dive deep into the mental health experiences of immigrants arriving in a new nation. Host Sylvia Pitak, from the Department of Health Public Health in Nashua, introduces her guest Marlene Christine Abril. Together, they explore the challenges faced by immigrants, including cultural adaptation, employment hurdles, and psychological impacts.

Marlene shares her personal journey and insights into the additional struggles of immigrant women and families, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness and support systems. Listen in and discover how community resources, solidarity, and mental health services can empower immigrants to thrive in their new environment.