I guess I should have made a plan for this... When you start a podcast about mental health because of your own mental health struggles, I should have been prepared for a relapse that leaves me pretty shut down. This week I have decided that I need to take a break to take care of myself and my mental health. I am determiened to come back as soon as …

In this episode we explore the vital distinction between discomfort and feeling unsafe, emphasizing the importance of embracing discomfort as a catalyst for personal growth. Drawing parallels between physical and emotional growth, we highlight the necessity of pushing beyond our comfort zones to unlock our full potential. Just as lifting heavier we…

In this episode we delve deep into the intricacies of emotions and their profound impact on our lives. It all starts with understanding the distinction between sensations and feelings. While sensations are involuntary bodily responses, feelings are rooted in our thoughts, highlighting the significant role our mindset plays in shaping our emotional …

In this episode of Messages from the Middle we delve into the power of self-narrative and the transformative potential of editing our life's script. Have you ever paused to consider the tale you tell yourself about yourself? Our personal narratives, whether consciously acknowledged or lingering in the shadows, profoundly shape our perceptions, emot…

In this episode titled "Mindfulness for a Busy Mind," I delve into the fascinating world of managing ADHD through mindfulness and meditation. One of the fun things that comes with ADHD is a busy mind, and I mean fun—like I'm never bored; my mind is always entertaining me. But this constant whirlwind of thoughts can be inconvenient when it comes to …

In this heartfelt episode I delve deep into the raw emotions and tough realities of parenthood, particularly for those of us in the middle and beyond. With honesty and vulnerability, I share my own journey of navigating the unexpected twists and turns of raising children, from the sleepless nights of infancy to the heartbreaks of adolescence. Toget…

Welcome to Messages From the Middle. On the podcast today we're diving into a topic that hits close to home for many with ADHD: burnout. In this episode we'll unpack the signs, symptoms, and sneaky triggers of burnout in the ADHD community. From feeling perpetually exhausted to struggling with everyday tasks like cooking dinner or tackling the groc…

Welcome to "Depression on the Brain"! In this episode, I'll be your guide through the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and mental health. We're on a mission to unravel the mysteries of depression, starting with a closer look at the inner workings of the brain. Depression isn't just a matter of "chemical imbalances" as it's often simplified.…

This week on Messages From the Middle we explore the notion of self-reliance in finding happiness. We will go on journey of self-discovery, highlighting the importance of having our own backs, even amidst the desire for connection and support from others. Drawing parallels between our internal "manuals" for happiness and the unrealistic expectation…

In this insightful podcast episode, I explores thequestion: How well do you truly know yourself? While it may seem like a straightforward inquiry, I highlights the complexities that arise from societal pressures and self-imposed masks. I will shares personal anecdotes, including moments of financial constraint that led me to suppress my desires and…

In this weeks episode I reflect on her childhood experiences with undiagnosed ADHD, recounting memories that shaped her sense of self. From struggling with feeling simultaneously smart and inadequate and navigating the complexities of school life while grappling with societal expectations and internalized criticism. As I delves into the impact of A…

This week, I delve into the profound concept of recognizing your intrinsic worth as a person. Throughout my journey, I've observed countless individuals diminish themselves, settling for mere scraps when they're deserving of a lavish feast. I'll touch on the importance of valuing your physical self, understanding your worth in relationships, and em…

Welcome to this week's episode. This week we delve into the essence of identity. Too often, we tether our sense of self to external factors, vulnerable to the whims of circumstance. But here's the thing: when we anchor our identity to transient elements, we risk losing our foundation, inviting in shame and suffering. In this episode, we explore not…

One the podcast this week I tried something different. I read/listen to a lot of books! I love to read ♥️. This week I highlighted three books I read recently that taught me something new, gave me a new perspective and had an impact on my mental health knowledge and understanding. The three books I discuss are: The Women by Kristen Hannah. What My …

Welcome to "Messages from the Middle," where we explore the intricate journey of healing and growth. I delve into the profound realization that while we are the architects of our own healing, we don't need to walk the path solo. This week I share a few ideas of the various companions that can accompany us on our own road to healing – from compassio…

Today on the podcast where we explore the intricate dance between physical and mental health, illuminating the profound connection that shapes our well-being. Join me, as we delve into the ways our bodies and minds intertwine to create a life of vitality Get ready to embark on a journey towards holistic well-being with me! On this podcast, I'll be …

In this episode of Messages from the Middle, delve into the multifaceted realm of love as we explore its various forms, as classified by ancient Greek philosophy. Beyond mere affection, understanding the nuanced distinctions between these types of love can profoundly impact the dynamics of our relationships and enhance our overall well-being. By re…

BONUS: It was exactly one year ago today that my husband and I summited Mt. Kilimanjaro. To mark the occasion I am reposting one of my most popular episodes. In this episode I share my experience on summit night hiking Mt. Kilimanjaro and the insights I gained about the parallels of a serious journey and mental health. I share the things that helpe…

Uncover the hidden saboteurs of your progress and let your true potential shine! Join me on 'Sneaky Ugly Thoughts,' where we explore those deceiving thoughts that hold us back from creating lasting change. Get ready to hear the thoughts that you think are helping you but they are actually keeping you stuck. stick with me for practical tips, a to br…

In this episode of Messages From the Middle, I share the breakthrough moment I had when I declared, "I don't need a medication change, I need a life change!" IN that moment I knew that I needed to take steps to change and love the life I am in right now. In this episode I delve into the transformative power of decluttering for enhanced mental healt…

In this episode of Messages From the Middle I embark on an exploration of the human nervous system. I will share the delicate dance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches. This week I will get a little science as I journey, talk about intricacies of fight-or-flight and rest-and-digest responses. I'll delve into the differences between…

In this episode of "Messages from the Middle," I shine the spotlight on the profound impact of storytelling on mental health. In the middle of life's challenges, our narratives become powerful tool of resilience and connection. This episode explores the art of sharing personal stories as a beacon of hope and strength for both the storyteller and th…

This week on Messages from the Middle, I share feelings about going into a new year, using grit and grace on those New Years resolutions or any transformative journey. I believe that with a combination of unwavering determination and a touch of self-compassion, you can conquer your goals and defy expectations while nurturing self-love and personal …

Expressing gratitude can boost your mental health by releasing oxytocin, the love hormone. If there were a pill that did that, with no side effects, you know you would be taking it! The good news is you can create the same effect by expressing gratitude. In this episode I share ways you can show gratitude. I also share the things I am most grateful…

Your beliefs are fundamental to who you are. If you want to know your beliefs look at your life. Your life is the road map to your beliefs. If you want to make changes to your life you need to find your core beliefs and make changes at the belief level. In this episode talk more your core beliefs, where they come from and how the effect your behavi…

Continuing with my December mini dives into small things that make a big difference for your mental health: This week I am talking about how important service is to improving your mental health. Take a listen, then go out and share your light with someone! contact me: email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com instagram: @childsongbird…

This weeks episode is all about Grace. More specifically grace for yourself, self-love and self-compassion. A personal depvlopment journey is great, but as we work towards self improvement, it is also common to use these tools as ammunition for self-judgement. We also need too give ourselves grace and compassion as we work on creating the best vers…

For the month of December I will be doing a deep dive into different tools we can all use to enrich our mental health. This week I was nudged to talk about Faith. As my mental health has been in a backslide lately, I have recognized that I need to go all in on faith. Faith is essential to moving towards understanding our purpose in life and why it …

It seems counter intuitive, but being afraid of healing is very common. We are comfortable in our pain, but there is so much more available to us if we are willing to move through the pain and discomfort and find the person we are capable of being on the other side of the healing journey. In this episode I share the reasons why you might be afraid …

In this episode I take you through an excercies I use to create a timeline of all the good, happy and uplifting times in your life. This exercise is so powerful to see that life really is 50/50 there is light and good in our lives. We just have to look for it! email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com instagram: @childsongbird…

There are so many discoveries I have made since my ADHD diagnosis. This week I do a deep dive into what I learned about people with ADHD and their tendency to over-talk and over-share. This has been a big one my whole life. Learning that it is a result of issues with executive function AND that there are things we can all do to help us be better wi…

I really struggle with winter. A few years ago, as a way of learning to do more than just get through winter I learned about Hygge. In this episode I share a few fundamental of this Danish art of cozy, comfort and well being along with the five goals I have set for having a better winter season this year. my list ofHygge essentials of Amazon:https:…

No matter what our biological gender is we all have feminine and masculine energy. We do tend to be more dominant in one or the other, but finding balance in these two energies will help you to create a life that you live on purpose. In this episode I talk about the characteristic of feminine and masculine energy. What imbalance looks like and how …

In this episode of Non Executive Director Insider Insights, we discuss maximising value through a diverse board portfolio with Kerry Ryan. Kerry has broad experience across various consumer-facing industries - retail, FMCG, sport, professional services, education, fitness, health and wellbeing, and social services. Through her diverse board portfol…

One of the most empowering things we can learns for our emotions is that it is out thoughts that create our emotions. In this episode I talk about notching your thoughts, becoming aware of the emotions the thought is causing and steps you can take towards creating a thought that is more serving to your mental health. instagram: @childsongbird email…

No one likes rejection, but for people with Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) rejection is especially painful. This pain can cause mental health issues like anxiety and depression and can even be misdiagnosed as Bi-polar, borderline personality or other mood disorders. Another interesting thing about RSD, 100% of people with ADHD have it! It ju…

We are meant to feel every emotion, even the negative ones. The negative emotions help us to feel and experience the complexity of life. In this weeks episode I talk about the negative emotions, why they are good for us and an important part of life and healing. contact me: @childsongbird on Instagram email at Wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com…

Are you co-dependent? In reality we are all have traits of co-dependency, but when it's really bad it can cause depression, anxiety, lack of self-love and self-care and lead to many destructive behaviors all before you realize there is a problem. In this episode I talk about sign of co-dependency and the pathway out! Yes, there is hope if you are w…

There are cracks in everything, that's how the light gets in. -Leonard Cohen. This is a quote I have written on my mirror. I love the perspective it brings me. In this episode I look at the core belief "I am broken" and talk about how we are never broken, but we are also not perfect, there are cracks, and that's ok. That is exactly how we are meant…

If you love and care for someone who deals with depression this episode is for you. In the episode I share things to do or say to help your loved one, along with some things that aren't very helpful and should avoided. I personally want to give you my love and gratitude for being there for someone during their darkest times. Thank you!…

Isolation and loneliness are the new epidemic. Studies have shown that loneliness is the cause of many health issues, including mental health issues. On this episode I share my experience with Isolation and loneliness and things that we can all do to find our way out of this unhealthy place.By Wendy Parrish

In this episode I interview Caytie Frampton. Caytie recently went through some big health issues that created difficult physical and emotional challenges. Caytie shares her story along with the tools she is using on her healing journey. I loved talking with Caytie. We have so much in common. I could have talked with her all day. Caytie grew up in S…

In an effort to correct a problem we sometimes overcorrect causing a bigger problem. Like overcorrecting to miss a deer on the road. In the case of mental health, there has been an overcorrection as to what good mental health actually is. in this episode I share what good mental health actually is and the ways that many people are overcorrecting in…

Today on the podcast I have the amazing Angie Monson. I am so excited for you to hear what she has to say. She will drop her wisdom and knowledge from her experiences as a mother, photographer, a leader of travel retreats and a relationship coach. Angie is a photographer and retreat leader based in Salt Lake City Utah. Her passion for healing and a…

In today's episode I talk about the three things every child needs to hear and the importance of telling those three things to your inner child. Healing and loving the little person inside you goes a long way in healing the big you. Sarah Blondin https://www.sarahblondin.com/podcastBy Wendy Parrish

On this weeks episode I interview the Concussions Coach, Bethany Lewis. Bethany Lewis is a Neurological Occupational Therapist and a Certified Life Coach through The Life Coach School and has specific training in nervous system resilience. She has worked as an occupational therapist since 2009, and has helped hundreds of patients with concussions a…

In June I had the opportunity to be on the Key Nutrition Podcast. In this episode I share a little more of my journey. I talk about the steps I have taken to work on mental health and the realization that this is my story and I am where I am supposed to be.By Wendy Parrish

One of the best ways to put ourselves in the drivers seat is to recognize that it is not the circumstances in our life that create our emotions, but our thoughts about that circumstance. It is also worth taking the time to notice what circumstances you can't change and which ones you can. "Stuck" is a choice you just have to take some time to notic…

Being able to describe how depression, anxiety or other mental illnesses is a powerful tool for yourself and for others. On today's episode I share what depression feels like in to me. I explain why this is such a powerful and useful tool. How you can do it and I encourage you to do the same exercise! Andrew Solomon: Depression; the secret we all s…

Mental health can be compared to the weather. Sometimes we have beautiful, sunny, blue skies. Other times there are storm clouds overhead and they stick around for awhile. Today on the podcast I share my storm cloud emergency toolkit. These are the things that I do when I am in my low moods. This works great for me when I am feeling sad and low, ho…