Debunking Myths and Connecting Dots Between Mental Health, Substance Use, and Gender Identity, with Jordan HeldDebunking Myths and Connecting Dots Between Mental Health, Substance Use, and Gender Identity, with Jordan Held
Hopestream for parenting kids through drug use and addiction
Jordan Held shares his journey from athlete to advocate, exploring the links between mental health, substance use, and gender identity.
37:51•14 Mar 2024
Jordan Held: Breaking Barriers and Myths in Mental Health, Substance Use, and Gender Identity
Episode Overview
- The episode delves into the intersection of mental health, substance use, and gender identity, offering valuable insights for parents.
- Jordan Held shares his personal journey, from a successful athlete to an advocate for gender diverse youth.
- Discussions include the impact of self-diagnosis among teenagers and the importance of creating a supportive environment for adolescents questioning their identity.
- Parents learn about challenges faced by young people today, the normalization of substance use, and the need for improved education and support systems.
- The episode provides a safe space for understanding and encourages parents to support their teens through these complex issues.
“The blessing and the curse of marijuana getting legalized in a lot of ways is that that was not accompanied by an increase in education in school systems, right? So now young people are under this impression, I mean, would you rather me use fentanyl or meth or cocaine? Why would I not use marijuana, right? It's not seen as a drug anymore, right? In fact, for a lot of young people that I work with, it's their primary coping mechanism.”
Picture this: A young person, a high achiever both academically and athletically, grapples with the pressures of fitting in. This was Jordan Held's reality before he found his true self. In this episode of 'Hopestream', Brenda Zane invites Jordan to share his powerful journey from struggling with gender identity and substance use to becoming an advocate for gender-diverse youth.
Jordan recounts the pivotal moments that shaped his path, including the day he asked his employer if he could dress like the male faculty and was told, 'We're not ready for that yet'. Despite this setback, Jordan's determination to live authentically led him to where he is today - a role model with advanced degrees in Social Welfare, Sports Leadership, and Kinesiology. He now dedicates his life to supporting others who face similar challenges.
This conversation isn't just for parents of gender-questioning teens; it's for anyone looking to understand the intricate links between mental health, substance use, and identity. Brenda and Jordan discuss the impact of societal expectations, the importance of safe spaces, and practical ways to support adolescents through their struggles.
Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone interested in these critical issues, this episode offers a blend of personal stories and expert advice that will leave you better equipped to support the young people in your life.
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