Navigating Loneliness: A Deep Dive into Relationships and Coping Strategies with Guest Mandy Ream [Friendship Series 3]

This episode is Part 2 of a conversation between Dr. Kimber and Mandy Ream about community and friendship. Click here to listen to Part 1 or click here to listen to Part 2.

In this episode, Dr. Kimber and special guest Mandy Ream, author and professor, explore personal growth, healing, and loneliness. You're in for a heartfelt discussion on the power of friendship, vulnerability, and the challenges of being a human who experiences loneliness. This episode delves into the significance of genuine human connection and the limitations of digital interactions on social media platforms. The importance of seeking therapy and engaging in introspective analysis to understand internal experiences is emphasized, along with the value of diverse support systems. Practical strategies for coping with loneliness, such as self-soothing activities and community engagement, are discussed.

Three key takeaways for the episode:

1. Loneliness is a complex and multifaceted experience that can impact anyone, regardless of external circumstances. 
2. The significance of genuine human connection and the limitations of pseudo-connection through social media are highlighted. Dr. Kimber and Mandy discuss the impact of social media in perpetuating loneliness and the importance of face-to-face interactions in meeting neurobiological needs for being seen and having needs met.
3. Therapy and engaging in introspective analysis to understand and integrate internal and external experiences can be an effective way of combating loneliness. This episode also stresses the importance of cultivating diverse support systems and engaging in self-soothing activities to address loneliness and cope with life transitions.

MORE ON SPECIAL GUEST MANDY REAM…

Mandy Osterhaus Ream is a professor in Communication Studies in Southern California. She recently published her debut essay collection, Life As I Know It...So Far, which includes stories about parenting, Down Syndrome, mental health, and life in general through the lens of middle age. 

Her work is also featured in Grub Street, Pink Panther Magazine, Literary Mama, and Remington Review. More can be found at www.mandyosterhausream.com. She is happiest in water. Instagram: @mandy.ream

Check out past episodes and more information here: https://www.drkimber.net/podcast-info

Please remember that this podcast is not a replacement for treatment by a healthcare or mental health professional. This content is created for education and entertainment purposes only.

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Book: Still: Making A Whole When Parts Go Missing