92. Living with Mental Illness: Real Life, Real Policy, Real Peer Support

Today’s episode takes a raw and relatable look at what it means to live with mental illness—and why peer support is more than just a feel-good idea. We’re joined by Josh, a certified peer support specialist, NAMI program leader, and unapologetic gamer navigating home ownership (with the help of a clueless cat). From personal experience to public policy, Josh shares how his journey shapes the work he does across Iowa. We dive into national mental health statistics, explore the intersection of mental illness and the criminal justice system, and unpack what it would take to truly center lived experience in the systems meant to serve. Come for the driveway-gravel woes, stay for the conversation that might just change how you see peer support.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover how NAMI provider training enhances support for reentry programs.
• Explore the invaluable benefits of peer support in improving behavioral health.
• Uncover the unique challenges of mental health care within incarceration facilities.
• Learn about the pivotal role peers play in driving criminal justice reform.
• Understand the significant impact of peer support specialists on reentry success.
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The key moments in this episode are:

00:04:26 - Josh Hubbell’s Introduction to NAMI
00:08:05 - Challenges in Mental Health Education in Corrections
00:10:56 - Gaps in Reentering the Community
00:12:19 - Speaking to Law Enforcement and Mental Health Advocacy
00:12:39 - NAMI's Training Component with Law Enforcement Academy
00:14:18 - Treatment Options in Prisons
00:16:20 - Overrepresentation of Mental Illness in Criminal Justice Settings
00:20:33 - Utilizing Peers in Mental Health Support
00:24:43 - Employment Barriers for Felons
00:25:11 - Stigma and Labels
00:31:25 - Addressing Policy Issues
00:34:42 - Self-Care and Advocacy
00:36:52 - The Importance of Unity 

Links: 

• https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-by-the-numbers/
• 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
• 1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
• 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
• 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24
• Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-14
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4182175/#:~:text=Introduction,health%2C%20and%20social%20services%20intersect.

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https://www.youtube.com/@ruralpolicypartners

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jPggZkuPxSU