A Better Way: Moving from Addiction to Mental Wellness with Brian Weddington Artwork

Let's Rethink This

Let’s Rethink This is taking real conversations about mental illness from behind closed doors right out into the open. Hosted by Abby Berger, episodes will explore the complex corners of mental illness by having candid conversations with people living with a severe mental illness and mental health providers on how mental illness affects all aspects of life including education, employment, housing, relationships and so much more. Let’s Rethink This is bringing you real stories of the challenges of mental illness along with real inspiration to manage the symptoms of mental illness, find belonging and purpose in your community, and gain the confidence to live a healthy, quality life.

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Let's Rethink This

A Better Way: Moving from Addiction to Mental Wellness with Brian Weddington

August 30, 2021 • Abby Berger • Episode 16

Date: August 30, 2021

Name of Show: Let’s Rethink This

Episode title and number: A Better Way: Moving from Addiction to Mental Wellness with Brian Weddington

Brief summary of show: Today I’d like to introduce Brian Weddington. Brian is a newer member at Independence Center, coming into services in 2020. Since joining Independence Center, he has become a peer specialist, completed his HiSET, enrolled at UMSL, moved into his own apartment, and has started interviewing for different jobs. We are going to spend a little time hearing Brian’s story and learn more about what he is up to now.

Bullet points of key topics & timestamps:

1:25 - 9:09 Brian’s Story

11:24 –15:01 Maintaining Sobriety

15:15 - 32:16 Charlie & BHN’s Emergency Room Enhancement Program

32:56 - 37:12 Living Independently

37:54 - 42:22 Managing Mental Health & Keeping Sobriety During the Pandemic

List of resources mentioned in episode, suggested reading, social media handles:

Suicide Statistics

Drug Abuse Statistics

Emergency Room Enhancement Program

Stepping Into the Light Ministries

Depaul Mental Health Urgent Care & In Patient Facilities

Independence Center Clubhouse Program

Independence Center Residential Program

Calls to action:

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