Art and Healing: Yamila Rollan Escalona's Journey with Yaya Por Vida
Episode Overview
Healing through the arts can be a powerful tool in addiction recovery. Mental health stigma remains a significant barrier in many communities. Community collaboration is essential for effective harm reduction. Turning personal grief into action can create meaningful change. Support from family and community can be crucial in recovery journeys.
"Grief does not go away; you only grow around it with time."
In this heartfelt episode of the SMART Recovery® Podcast, host Luke Frazier welcomes Yamila Rollan Escalona, the founder of Yaya Por Vida. Yamila shares her emotional journey from losing her sister, Yaritza (Yaya), to addiction, to establishing a non-profit that uses art as a healing tool for those struggling with substance use in Southeast Florida.
The episode dives into Yamila's upbringing in an immigrant family, her sister's artistic talent, and the challenges they faced, including mental health stigma within the Latino community. Yamila speaks candidly about her sister's struggles with neurodivergence and substance use, and how these experiences shaped the mission of Yaya Por Vida. The organisation offers harm reduction tools and healing through the arts, creating a unique blend of practical support and creative expression.
Yamila's story is both moving and inspiring, highlighting the power of community and collaboration in the face of grief and loss. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of art, mental health, and addiction recovery. Tune in to hear how one woman's dedication is making a significant impact in her community.