Making Youth Mental Health a Priority with Jason Reid

Episode notes In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts interviews Dana Christian Lee, a seasoned educator, and the Executive Director of the non-profit Tell My Story. The podcast delves into Dana's background, including her experience with eating disorders, postpartum depression, and the impact of losing loved ones to suicide. Dana discusses her work with Tell My Story, which aims to help parents address their children's mental health proactively. The conversation covers the importance of empathy, resilience, and community support in addressing mental health challenges. Dana emphasizes the significance of simple gestures like smiling and softening stress, as well as the need for open, heartfelt communication. The episode highlights the various initiatives and resources offered by Tell My Story, including a card game designed to foster communication and connection. Dana’s Bio and Contact Information Dana Christian Lee is a mom of two amazing humans; William John III & Grace Christian. Originally from Michigan, they headed west for her daughter to attend college in Northern California 5 years ago & have found California to be their soul's home. Dana holds two degrees in education as well as certification in yoga and mindfulness. She has been a teacher for over 25 years in elementary/middle schools, religious education programs, as well as yoga & mindfulness teaching. Her passion is physical and mental wellbeing in community, offering access to resources, tools, and connection. In January 2023 Dana's journey with Tell My Story began in partnership with Jason Reid. Tell My Story is a nonprofit whose mission is to 'help parents own their kids' mental health like they do their physical health,' through film, music and meaningful communication. Dana, the executive director of Tell My Story, works daily to positively impact youth mental health nationally and globally. Email: dana@tellmystory.org Website: https://tellmystory.org/ The Teaching Journeys Podcast is available on your favorite podcast platforms. To find out more about dave go to davidrobertsmsw.com and his author page psychologyprofessorandminister.com Visit the page: https://rss.com/podcasts/theteachingjourneys/1909742/ Watch the episode on youtube 

“I found myself thrust into the world of mental wellness in 2018 when I lost my son Ryan to suicide. He had just turned 14.” With those words, director Jason Reid introduces his 45-minute film “What I Wish My Parents Knew,” a follow-up to his 2020 documentary “ Tell My Story .”  Read the full article here: https://www.petaluma360.com/article/entertainment/film-teen-suicide-petaluma-high-school/

Losing a child is an unimaginable pain, one that Jason Reed knows all too well after the heartbreaking loss of his 14-year-old son, Ryan, to suicide. This tragedy became the catalyst for Jason’s mission to transform despair into hope by advocating for youth mental health. Through projects like his powerful film "Tell My Story" and his impactful TEDx talks, Jason is determined to bridge the generational gap and address the unprecedented pressures faced by today’s youth. From the relentless academic demands to the pervasive reach of digital connectivity, Jason shares profound insights into the unique challenges that shape the mental well-being of young people today. Communication emerges as a cornerstone of support in our conversation with Jason, as he stresses the importance of being present and listening to children without the urge to fix or solve. By using the metaphor of clear skies and clouds, Jason helps us understand the complexities of mental health issues like depression and anxiety from a child's perspective. It becomes clear that prioritizing mental health with the same care as physical health is essential for creating a safe space for children to share their emotions. Jason's approach aligns with fostering open dialogue, empowering parents to become attentive listeners, and easing the emotional burdens kids often carry in silence. Beyond his advocacy, Jason is a creative force, channeling his experiences into storytelling through novels, screenplays, and his YouTube series "Ghost Town USA." His commitment to mental health advocacy is matched by a fervor for engaging conversations, evident in his choice of hypothetical dinner guests like the Pope, Vladimir Putin, and Volodymyr Zelensky. As we wrap up this episode, we reflect on the power of podcasting as a tool for sharing transformative insights and experiences, encouraging our listeners to spread this episode like a gift, one that could bring understanding and support to someone’s life. Join us in our heartfelt journey of Doing Business with a Servant's Heart, and be prepared to gain new perspectives on mental health and communication.

FOX 11's Sandra Endo spoke to a local family who shared a powerful message on teen mental health and suicide prevention.

S11Ep15 Owning Kids' Mental Health: Dana Christian Lee's Journey

Picture this: Dana, a dedicated mother and inspiring nonprofit leader, shares her unique journey of leading with a servant's heart, all while illuminating the path for others like a steadfast lighthouse. In our latest conversation, we explore the profound impact of servant leadership and the unwavering power of hope, drawing parallels with historical perseverance and current challenges faced in California. Dana passionately discusses her role in supporting marginalized communities, firefighters, and youth mental health initiatives, all while weaving in her personal experiences as a yoga instructor. Her insights on aligning one’s values with daily actions offer a beacon of hope, encouraging each of us to lead with empathy and purpose.  We also navigate the complexities of family communication in mental health, guided by insights from renowned experts like Brene Brown. The barriers between parents and children often hinder open dialogue, but tools like the "Tell My Story" card game offer innovative solutions. By fostering deeper connections through thought-provoking questions, we emphasize the importance of sharing vulnerabilities and being present, even if just for a few moments a day. Our conversation takes a lighthearted turn as we imagine a dinner with Vivek Murthy, the U.S. Surgeon General, to discuss his influential work on youth mental health. Join us as we explore these meaningful interactions and the paths to authentic storytelling and connection.

The rad dads are joined by Jason Reid, who opens up about the death of his 14-year-old son. What are the warning signs of child suicide? How can you help your child? Depression is not just an adult problem but it is rampant in our children.

Jason Reid is the founder and Chair of “Tell My Story”. In 2018 he lost his 14-year old son, Ryan to suicide. His tragic loss sent him on a mission to educate parents and spread awareness about the dangers of youth suicide. Jason has dedicated himself to increasing awareness and ending the stigma around the conversation of mental health. He is committed to working with parents, educators and organizations that are in alignment with the “Tell My Story” mission. He is also a partner at CEO International, where he coaches CEOs on how to be successful. He co-founded National Services Group , which employs 2,500 people across three brands nationwide. He is a leader, an entrepreneur, and a devoted family man. Listen to the Podcast here In This Episode Chooselife.org Jason’s documentary: Tell My Story

National Suicide prevention Week: "Tell my Story" Jason Reid, founder of “Tell My Story” talks about the documentary and program aimed at mental health in youth Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/video/national-suicide-prevention-week-tell-my-story/