Keeping Hope Alive Dealing With Mental Health During the Pandemic

Tiffany Werhner hosted Kirk Patrick Miller as a guest on Moments of Clarity with Tiffany. Kirk is an award-winning author, radio host and teacher. Tiffany and Kirk discussed current events and their impacts on those suffering with mental health conditions.

Kirk Struggled with his own mental health when he was young, and it wasn't until his early 20’s that he was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. It took a long time to come to a diagnosis and a treatment plan. When he was young, he was medicated for ADHD, OCD, and Generalized Anxiety, but he continued to struggle because he was not being treated for the actual illness he was suffering from. After all of those struggles, Kirk makes it a point to explain that he believes mental illness can be managed with medication and therapy.

Kirk introduced his book, “Dawn of Davna." Available on Amazon at https://amzn.to/305izcE - It is a fictional fantasy that oftentimes symbolizes mental health struggles without being blatant. He wanted his characters to be relatable to anyone struggling and it is suitable for all ages. The main message of the book is hope and compassion.

Coronavirus and COVID-19 was top of mind and Tiffany and Kirk both shared their perspectives in a discusson on the topoic. Both Tiffany and Kirk are concerned about the effects this pandemic is having on those already struggling with mental health challenges. Kirk talked about the difficulty of taking care of ourselves during this challenging time. They talked about isolation, lack of employment, and how this can lead to anxiety and depression. Tiffany and Kirk talked about various ways to cope personally as well as ways we should be protecting ourselves during this virus, especially by wearing masks and social distancing.

Lastly, they discussed the importance of civil discourse in the midst of protests about police brutality. Kirk stated how important it is to be able to listen and respect other people’s viewpoints even when we don’t agree with them. He talked about how to deal with online negativity from others. His rationale is to be calm, objective, and always respond with kindness. It is also vital to have strong boundaries. Kirk said it is very important for us to speak out when we see injustice in this world but to do it in a kind and respectful manner.

Kirk's Books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3eIWTY7

“Dawn of Davna,” is the first book in his "Light of Lunera" series. This fantasy is acceptable for all ages and has a rich depth of symbolism for those that want it. 10% of ALL profits will be given to mental health foundations that continue to help people overcome their struggles, end the attached stigma, and promote #hope, #kindness, and #empathy. Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/305izcE

Kirk also has authored and published a candid memoir, “Chaos to Cured: The True Story of Defeating Bipolar Disorder,” in which he shares the true story of his courageous journey to finding a cure for bipolar disorder with the hope that everyone will one day have a second chance in life.

Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2AyLtav

Kirk’s Social Media:

Twitter: www.twitter.com/chaos2

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kirkenmiller

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kirk-miller

Instagram: www.instagram.com/chaos2cured

Sponsors in this show:

Forever Forward Financial Group:

https://www.facebook.com/ForeverForwardFinancial

Don Lawson Music: https://www.reverbnation.com/donlawson

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Thank you as always for your support in ending the stigma on mental illness. Change can only happen when we come together as one