Jay Shifman: Turning Mental Health Struggles into Advocacy for Change
So it's sort of the two pieces, it's being, it's being vigilant, but also having, you know, tried and true methods in place, so that when I am in that spot, I know what to do and I'm not just drowning in it, because that's that's you know, that's where you start to lose.
Imagine growing up with the weight of anxiety and depression on your shoulders. That’s the reality Jay Shifman faced from a young age. In this episode of The Funky Brain Business Podcast, hosted by Dennis Berry, Jay opens up about his journey through the dark tunnels of mental health struggles and substance abuse, and how he emerged on the other side as a beacon of hope for others. Jay's story is one of resilience and transformation.
Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, he battled mental health issues well into his late 20s. But instead of letting these challenges define him, Jay chose to fight back. He pursued education, earning a degree in Psychology and multiple certifications in mental health and substance abuse fields. His career path is as varied as it is inspiring—from roles in non-profit fundraising to political consulting, and even founding his own podcast, 'Choose Your Struggle'.
Throughout the episode, Jay emphasizes the power of community and fellowship in overcoming mental health challenges. He shares candidly about the importance of vigilance and having reliable strategies to prevent relapse. He also touches on the pressures of social media and the need to maintain authenticity in a world that often values perfection over reality. Jay’s advocacy work aims to inspire others to seek help and make meaningful changes in their lives.
His story serves as a reminder that no matter how tough things get, there’s always a way forward. If you’re looking for an episode filled with raw honesty, practical advice, and a touch of inspiration, this one’s for you.