Messages From the Middle

Sadness: Why it isn't always a bad thing

Sadness is often seen as something to avoid, but what if it’s actually a crucial part of our emotional well-being? In this episode, I reflect on a powerful moment from a recent gathering with my closest friends—a tradition of Angel Tarot readings that led me to an unexpected realization. Through personal stories and insights from the movie "Inside Out", I explore why sadness isn’t a bad thing but rather an essential part of processing emotions, fostering growth, and deepening our appreciation for joy.  
Good mental health isn’t about being happy all the time; it’s about allowing ourselves to feel the full range of emotions. Sadness can bring clarity, self-reflection, and even motivation for change. In this episode, I break down the ways sadness serves us, how it connects us to others, and why embracing all our feelings—both the highs and the lows—is the key to emotional balance. Tune in as we shift our perspective on sadness and learn to see it as a valuable part of the human experience.
contact me: wendy@wendyparrish.com
Instagram: @chilidsongbird

Toxic Positivity

In this episode of *Messages from the Middle*, I dive into the concept of toxic positivity—the idea that we should always look on the bright side, no matter what. While positivity has its place, forcing it at the expense of real emotions can be harmful. Phrases like *“just stay positive”* or *“everything happens for a reason”* might sound encouraging, but they can actually dismiss and invalidate genuine feelings. So, how do we balance optimism with emotional honesty?  
Join me as I explore the difference between healthy positivity and toxic positivity, share real-life examples (including a story about lost luggage in Africa!), and offer practical steps for processing emotions in a way that leads to true resilience. Because real emotional strength isn’t about pretending everything is fine—it’s about allowing yourself to feel, process, and move forward in an authentic way.
contact me:
email- wendy@wendyparrish.com
Instagram: @childsongbird

The Antidote to RSD

In this episode of Messages from the Middle, I, dive deep into one of the most challenging aspects of ADHD: Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD). Last week, I shared how RSD has impacted my life and held me back from living boldly. This week, I focus on the antidote—self-confidence—and how it can help us overcome the paralyzing fear of failure or rejection. Together, we’ll explore what self-confidence truly means, why it’s tied to our ability to process emotions, and how we can build trust in our emotional resilience to step into life with courage.
Join me as I unpack essential skills like psychological flexibility, mindfulness, and self-compassion, and share actionable steps to help you feel, process, and grow through even the toughest emotions. Whether you’re navigating RSD or seeking a fresh perspective on emotional health, this episode offers tools to reclaim your power and live with greater confidence.
talk to me:
email: wendy@wendyparrish.com
instagram: @childsongbird

RSD in the Wild: What it's like to have Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria

What do Gilmore Girls and my kindergarten meltdown over a happy face stamp have in common? I am glad you asked. Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)
From a kindergarten meltdown over not earning a double smiley-face stamp to the emotional landmines of high school and adulthood, I share personal anecdotes about how RSD has shaped my life. I discuss how RSD affects creativity, relationships, and even the way we interpret simple texts like “Call me.” This episode is for anyone trying to understand themselves or their loved ones who may experience heightened sensitivity to rejection and failure. Tune in for insights, empathy, and a reminder that our unique traits—nerfs and buffs alike—can serve as both challenges and strengths.
contact me:
email: wendy@wendyparrish.com
instagram @childsongbird

Breathe

In this new episode I talk about my sure fire strategy to manage a racing mind and anxiety. That is too get out of my head and into my body through the breath. 
When life feels overwhelming, focusing on your breath can be a simple yet powerful way to calm your mind and reconnect with the present. Breathing exercises can alleviate stress, improve mood, and even help with sleep and pain management. Intentional breathing works by engaging the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and lowers stress levels. Focusing on your breath not only slows your heart rate but also helps you let go of fear, regret, and shame, bringing you back to the here and now. listen to this episode to get your connected to your breath. 
contact me:
wendy@wendyparrish.com
instagram
@childsongbird

Don't Call It A Comeback

After a few months away, I’m back behind the microphone, and it feels so good to return to *Messages From the Middle*. In this episode, I’m sharing my journey through one of the hard seasons of my life and the steps I took to move the needle in a positive direction. From ketamine infusion boosters to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), I dive into the innovative treatments that helped me get back on track.  
But it wasn’t just about the big medical interventions—it was also about reconnecting with my support system, building small daily habits, and finding strength in a group coaching program. I’ll talk about how these strategies worked together to create real change and why even the smallest actions, like making my bed, became a powerful foundation for healing.  
It’s good to feel better, to be back, and to share my journey with you. Tune in for an honest and hopeful conversation about climbing out of the darkness and finding light again.
contact me:
email: wendy@wendyparrish.com
instagram: @childsongbird
 

I Had Something To Share So Here it is!

In this episode, I share my thoughts on navigating challenging times and managing the stress many of us are feeling in today’s divided world. After returning from a recent break, I’ve seen how deeply fear and anxiety have taken root, especially around recent political events, even though I won’t be discussing the election itself. I explore how fear, often used as a tool to manipulate, can drive us to destructive places like anger, depression, and even despair. It’s heartbreaking to see the crisis this has created for so many, and I share my frustrations with those who irresponsibly fan these flames of fear.
To help myself—and hopefully all of you—find more peace, I walk through three powerful strategies I use to protect my mental well-being. I start by focusing on how I can control my thoughts and feelings, even when the world feels chaotic. I remind myself that fear only lives in the future and that staying grounded in the present brings a lot of relief. Finally, I talk about taking positive action, whether it’s supporting others with kindness or learning more about how things actually work. My message is simple but essential: let’s choose love over fear and be the positive change our world needs right now.
 
Instagram: @childsongbird
email: wendy@wendyparrish.com

Pause: an announcement from Wendy

I guess I should have made a plan for this...
When you start a podcast about mental health because of your own mental health struggles, I should have been prepared for a relapse that leaves me pretty shut down.
This week I have decided that I need to take a break to take care of myself and my mental health. I am determiened to come back as soon as possible. I love this podcast and the energy exchange it has given me, but for right now, I need to step back, pause and do some work. 
I have over 60 episodes available for you to catch up on in the mean time. love to you all, Wendy

Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

In this episode we explore the vital distinction between discomfort and feeling unsafe, emphasizing the importance of embracing discomfort as a catalyst for personal growth. Drawing parallels between physical and emotional growth, we highlight the necessity of pushing beyond our comfort zones to unlock our full potential. Just as lifting heavier weights or increasing running distances leads to physical strength and endurance, leaning into discomfort fosters resilience and personal development.
We delve into the nuances of discomfort, clarifying that while it may feel unfamiliar or challenging, it does not inherently pose a threat to our safety. By understanding this difference, we empower ourselves to confront new experiences with courage and curiosity, rather than succumbing to fear or avoidance. Through knowledge and practice, we learn to navigate discomfort with confidence, paving the way for profound personal transformation and fulfillment. Join us as we embark on a journey of growth and discovery, embracing discomfort as the pathway to becoming the best version of ourselves.
contact me:
wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
instagram: @childsongbird@yahoo.com

More Than A Feeling: Why being aware of our feelings matter

In this episode we delve deep into the intricacies of emotions and their profound impact on our lives. It all starts with understanding the distinction between sensations and feelings. While sensations are involuntary bodily responses, feelings are rooted in our thoughts, highlighting the significant role our mindset plays in shaping our emotional landscape. By recognizing that our thoughts are the root cause of our emotions, we unlock the power to shape our emotional experiences intentionally.
We explore the importance of emotional awareness and the transformative potential of allowing ourselves to feel without resistance or avoidance. By embracing our emotions with compassion and curiosity, we gain invaluable insights into our inner world, paving the way for greater self-understanding and emotional resilience. Join us as we journey towards a deeper connection with ourselves and a more fulfilling experience of life, one feeling at a time.
contact me:
email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
instagram: @childsongbird