Important lessons on talking openly about mental health

Published by diane@dianeatwood.com on July 28, 2022July 28, 2022

In this episode of the Catching Your Memories podcast, 23-year-old Marena Koenka shares a story about her mental health struggles. Her experiences are her own and may not be like yours or someone else’s, but she has learned that there is great value in sharing them. Doing so helps to connect people, as well as normalize and destigmatize mental illness.

A warning: Some people may be triggered by some of Marena’s experiences, particularly when she talks about self-harming and suicidal ideation. If you would prefer to skip over those sections, here are some timecodes: Self-harming 12:35 to 13:32. Suicidal ideation 41:37 to 45:11.

Listen to the podcast episode with Marena Koenka

Where else you can find and subscribe to the Catching Your Memories podcast (Be sure to leave a rating and a review!)

• Apple Podcasts
• Stitcher
• Spotify
• iHeartRadio
• RadioPublic
• Amazon
• Podbean
• SoundCloud
• Search for Catching Your Memories on your favorite podcast app

Read the transcript of this episode

• Transcript of conversation with Marena Koenka

Resources

• www.namimaine.org
• NAMI Maine Teen Text Support Line (207) 515-8398 
• Maine Statewide Crisis Line (call or text) 1 (888) 568-1112 

Marena’s photography business

• Sunset Ridge Photography