How Connection Fuels Mental Health and Inclusion with Kimberly Michelle - Episode 17

Inclusion and Disability Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron interviews Kimberly Michelle, a mental health advocate and tabletop gamer, about her journey in mental health advocacy and the importance of inclusion. Kimberly shares her personal struggles with mental health, how plushie therapy helps manage her anxiety, and her work as a mental health navigator. They discuss how Dungeons and Dragons and other games can be therapeutic tools for processing trauma. The episode emphasizes the importance of empathy, self-advocacy, and community in promoting inclusion for all.

Key Takeaways:

Mental health journey: Kimberly’s personal experiences with mental health inspired her advocacy.

Plushie therapy: Plush toys can serve as emotional support tools for managing anxiety.

Community importance: Finding supportive groups, like gaming communities, can combat loneliness.

Advocacy lessons: Self-advocacy is crucial, especially when navigating medical systems.

Empathy's role: Empathy, both for others and oneself, is key to fostering inclusion.

Kimberly’s definition of inclusion:

To have everyone no matter what their race, gender, disability, religion or any other difference come together and have the same rights and feeling of belonging.

Kimberly’s Bio:

Kimberly Michelle is a plushie collector, table top role playing gamer, content creator and mental health advocate from California.

Connect with Kimberly:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positivitynplushies

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

Yes

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 7

No - 7

Hasn’t tried it - 1

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