575. Prioritizing Mental Health, Body Neutrality + Knowing What’s in Your Supplements

Personal Struggles

Jess Sepel opens up about her personal struggles with anxiety and depression, especially following the loss of her best friend. She describes how this tragic event led to a mental breakdown and a deep dive into therapy, which she now views as essential for her well-being. Jess emphasizes the importance of finding a therapist who specializes in specific issues like trauma or OCD, and shares her belief in the combined power of Western and nutritional medicine 1.

   

Intrusive Thoughts

Intrusive thoughts and OCD have been significant challenges for Jess. She explains that intrusive thoughts often stem from trauma and can lead to obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Jess highlights the importance of understanding these thoughts and seeking specialized therapy to manage them effectively 2.

   

Therapeutic Insights

Therapy has been a cornerstone of Jess's mental health journey. She shares how regular therapy sessions have helped her process grief and trauma, and how medication played a role in her recovery. Jess stresses that therapy is not a luxury but a necessity, likening it to daily essentials like eating and drinking water 3.

   

Trauma and Healing

Jess discusses the profound impact of trauma on her life and how she has found peace through the healing process. She emphasizes the importance of embracing hard times and not being afraid of them, as they often lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of oneself 4.

   

Boundaries

Setting boundaries and practicing self-care are crucial for maintaining mental health, according to Jess. She shares her routines for managing stress and ensuring restorative sleep, highlighting the role of boundaries in protecting one's mental well-being. Jess also discusses the impact of cortisol on the body and the importance of calming the nervous system 5.