Messages From the Middle

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

Rewrite your Story

In this episode of Messages from the Middle we delve into the power of self-narrative and the transformative potential of editing our life's script. Have you ever paused to consider the tale you tell yourself about yourself? Our personal narratives, whether consciously acknowledged or lingering in the shadows, profoundly shape our perceptions, emotions, and behaviors. The beauty lies in the fact that we are both the author and the editor of our stories. We possess the agency to revise, reimagine, and redefine our paths. "Rewriting your story" isn't about dismissing hardships or pretending everything is perfect; it's about finding meaning, empowerment, and ownership amidst life's twists and turns.
Exploring your narrative is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through introspection and reflection, we uncover the themes, pivotal moments, and core beliefs that define our story. Are we empowering ourselves or surrendering to victimhood? Do we perceive challenges as opportunities for growth or roadblocks to our happiness? By embracing our story with honesty and compassion, we embark on a process of liberation and transformation. So, are you ready to rewrite your story? Join me as I embark on this quest to reclaim our narratives, redefine our identities, and craft stories that resonate with authenticity and purpose.
Contact me:
email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
Instagram: @childsongbird

Mindfulness For Busy Minds

In this episode titled "Mindfulness for a Busy Mind," I delve into the fascinating world of managing ADHD through mindfulness and meditation. One of the fun things that comes with ADHD is a busy mind, and I mean fun—like I'm never bored; my mind is always entertaining me. But this constant whirlwind of thoughts can be inconvenient when it comes to quieting intrusive and worrisome thoughts. The good news is, there's something that can be done with a busy mind. You can learn how to train your brain, take control of those intrusive thoughts, and that's where mindfulness comes in.
I share my personal experience, emphasizing the joy and challenges of a constantly active mind. Through simple yet profound practices, I explain how listeners can train their brains to be intentional about their thoughts and actions, ultimately leading to improved concentration, reduced stress, and enhanced self-esteem. I break down the essence of mindfulness, debunking misconceptions and providing practical tips for incorporating meditation into daily life. Whether you're navigating the whirlwind of ADHD or simply seeking a deeper connection with the present moment, this episode serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder of the transformative potential of mindfulness.

To The Middle Moms: A Message to moms of older kids

In this heartfelt episode I delve deep into the raw emotions and tough realities of parenthood, particularly for those of us in the middle and beyond. With honesty and vulnerability, I share my own journey of navigating the unexpected twists and turns of raising children, from the sleepless nights of infancy to the heartbreaks of adolescence. Together, we explore the profound love we have for our children and the challenges of balancing our own happiness with their journey towards independence.
Join me as we unpack the meaning of unconditional love, and facing the hard questions head-on. From redefining success to embracing the journey, this episode offers a powerful reminder that as parents, we're all in this together. So, to my fellow middle moms, let's lean into the messy, beautiful journey of parenthood and find solace in the shared experiences that bind us.
contact me
email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
instagram: @childsongbird

ADHD Burnout

Welcome to Messages From the Middle. On the podcast today we're diving into a topic that hits close to home for many with ADHD: burnout.
In this episode we'll unpack the signs, symptoms, and sneaky triggers of burnout in the ADHD community. From feeling perpetually exhausted to struggling with everyday tasks like cooking dinner or tackling the grocery store, we'll explore the unique challenges that come with managing ADHD executive function.
But fear not, fellow travelers on the ADHD journey, because we're not just here to commiserate—we're here to empower. Throughout the episode, we'll share practical strategies for breaking the burnout cycle, from setting realistic expectations to prioritizing self-care. So grab your headphones, settle in, and let's kick burnout to the curb, one mindful step at a time.
contact me:
email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
instagram: @childsongbird
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Depression on the Brain: Causes of depression and the brain

Welcome to "Depression on the Brain"! In this episode, I'll be your guide through the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and mental health. We're on a mission to unravel the mysteries of depression, starting with a closer look at the inner workings of the brain.
Depression isn't just a matter of "chemical imbalances" as it's often simplified. It's a complex interplay of nerve cell connections, growth, and circuit functioning. Thanks to cutting-edge brain imaging technologies like PET, SPECT, and fMRI, we're able to peer into the brain like never before. These tools reveal key areas like the amygdala, thalamus, and hippocampus, shedding light on how they regulate mood and influence memory. For instance, studies have found that the hippocampus tends to be smaller in depressed individuals, possibly due to stress-related suppression of neuron production. But here's where it gets really interesting: antidepressants don't just tweak neurotransmitter levels; they actually stimulate the growth of new neurons, suggesting a potential breakthrough in depression treatment. Join me as we delve deeper into the neural landscape of depression and uncover new paths to healing.
Contact me:
email: wendy@messagesfromthemiddle.com
instagram: @childsongbird
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