STREET STRONG: Homeless not Hopeless!

Feeding the Mind: How Ultra-Processed Foods Impact Our Mental Health and Homelessness

Episode Title: Feeding the Mind: How Ultra-Processed Foods Impact Our Mental Health and Homelessness
Welcome to another engaging episode of "STREET STRONG," where we bring attention to the challenges and growth opportunities within our urban landscapes. Join your host, Tommy Sarti, as we delve into the critical intersection of nutrition and mental health, especially among our most vulnerable populations—those experiencing homelessness.
What You Will Discover:
Understanding Ultra-Processed Foods: We start by breaking down what ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are and why they dominate our grocery aisles. Learn about the NOVA classification system which sheds light on how different foods impact our health.
Impact on Mental Health: Discover the significant effects that UPFs have on our mental well-being. Studies show that high consumption of these foods is linked to increased depression, anxiety, and even cognitive decline. We'll explore how these foods alter our gut microbiome, affecting our overall brain health.
Real Stories, Real Impact: Hear firsthand accounts of how diets consisting predominantly of UPFs can exacerbate mental health issues, lead to increased drug cravings, and impact overall life quality. These stories illustrate the profound effect nutrition can have on our mental state, especially for those in precarious living conditions.
Practical Advice for Better Nutrition: Get actionable tips on how to make healthier food choices. From understanding food labels to navigating grocery stores for better options, these strategies are designed to empower you and others to make informed decisions that support mental and physical health.
Join us as we discuss how transforming our food choices can be a powerful step towards combating homelessness and enhancing mental wellness. Remember, what we eat not only fuels our bodies but also feeds our minds.
Stay tuned and stay strong as we continue to tackle real issues affecting our communities and fight against homelessness. Stay Street Strong!
 
website: www.streetstrong.life
https://www.instagram.com/streetstrong444/
email me with questions, comments, or, if you'd like to be on the show at: streetstrongpodcast@gmail.com
 
 
911 - EMERGENCIES!
 
Mental Health or Substance Use Treatment Referral and Information Hotline.
 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
 
 
Need Help Finding Treatment?
https://findtreatment.gov/
 
 
Call 211 for LOCAL ASSISTANCE!
 
You can always call 211 to speak to someone and find local assistance, but there are also dedicated helplines available to anyone in the U.S.
Veterans Crisis Line: call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and press 1; or text 838255
Crisis Text Line: text the word 'Home' to 741-741
The Trevor Lifeline for LGBTQ Youth: call 1-866-488-7386
The Trans Lifeline: call 1-877-565-8860
 
 

MIND GRIND: Challenging Thoughts to Overcome Homelessness

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the complexities of our thought patterns, with a special focus on those living in homelessness. From the gritty pavements of Skid Row to the comfort of your own home, we endeavor to spark hope and contest the paralyzing belief that situations will never improve.
We introduce the concept of 'mind grind,' an examination of the enduring thoughts that often impede our progress, more so for vulnerable individuals living on the streets. These automatic thoughts greatly influence our emotions and behaviors and are often mistaken as truths. This episode is designed to challenge this harmful perspective, emphasizing the necessity of controlling your thoughts for a better life.
Tackling thought distortions, we discuss how erroneous thinking can distort our outlook. Recognizing that these distortions stem from biological factors and learned behaviors, we underscore the importance of consistently challenging them. Without this, these distortions can create barriers that prevent us from seizing opportunities for positivity and progress.
Despite the grim realities that street children and homeless individuals face, we anchor this episode in the belief that improvement and happiness are achievable. This episode espouses optimism amidst adversity, starting with a critical change in our thought patterns.
Explore the mind grind with us and discover actionable strategies for challenging thought distortions and handling automatic thoughts. This is more than a podcast; it is an encouragement of hope and a call to action. As we navigate through the complexities of the mind, remember, you are not alone in this battle.
Furthermore, we dive into the topic of overcoming homelessness through a positive mindset. Move away from the harrowing past, and embrace the promising future shaped by the potent power of positivity. We also shed light on the significant role of mental health and the impact of intense emotions on our thought processes.
We identify three common thought distortions: fortune-telling, overgeneralization, and all-or-nothing thinking, illustrating how they can curtail our personal growth and mental health. Embrace possibility, wonder, and hope in everyday thought patterns and eliminate monotony and negativity.
In conclusion, this episode provides vital help for individuals currently experiencing homelessness. With the inclusion of professional mental health guidance and stress-relief strategies, belief and perseverance form core themes of our narrative here. Breaking down enormous goals into achievable steps, we insist on the power of forward momentum, based in hope and positive thinking.
Discover practical strategies for transforming despair into action and fostering hope, especially among the homeless. Learn to recognize and overcome patterns like fortune telling, overgeneralization, and all-or-nothing thinking.
What You Will Discover:
Understanding Cognitive Distortions: Delve into the irrational and exaggerated thought processes that fuel negative emotions and behaviors. Learn why our minds often cling to patterns like fortune telling, where we predict the worst outcomes without evidence, and how these distortions can significantly alter our emotional states and decision-making abilities.
Impact of Cognitive Distortions on Emotions and Behaviors: Explore how thinking patterns such as overgeneralization and all-or-nothing attitudes can intensify feelings of despair and hinder proactive behavior, especially in challenging situations like homelessness.
Practical Strategies for Change: Gain insight into effective methods to challenge and change these destructive thoughts. Techniques include evidence checking, exploring alternatives, breaking down overwhelming problems into manageable steps, and using mindfulness to stabilize emotions.
Building Resilience and Hope: Learn how small, achievable steps can lead to significant changes, fostering a sense of progress and possibility that combats hopelessness and motivates further action.
website: www.streetstrong.life
https://www.instagram.com/streetstrong444/
email me with questions, comments, or, if you'd like to be on the show at: streetstrongpodcast@gmail.com
 
 
911 - EMERGENCIES!
 
 
Mental Health or Substance Use Treatment Referral and Information Hotline.
 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
 
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
 
 
Need Help Finding Treatment?
https://findtreatment.gov/
 
 
Call 211 for LOCAL ASSISTANCE!
 
You can always call 211 to speak to someone and find local assistance, but there are also dedicated helplines available to anyone in the U.S.
Veterans Crisis Line: call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and press 1; or text 838255
Crisis Text Line: text the word 'Home' to 741-741
The Trevor Lifeline for LGBTQ Youth: call 1-866-488-7386
The Trans Lifeline: call 1-877-565-8860
 
 

Unveiling the Links Between Bipolar Disorder and Homelessness

In today's episode of Street Strong, we delve into the complex world of mental health prevalent among the homeless community, focusing on one condition in particular - bipolar disorder. Largely misunderstood and characterized by extreme mood swings, this disorder distressingly affects 11% of those who are homeless. Our comprehensive discussion covers the basic knowledge of bipolar disorder, including its diagnosis, early warning signs, and its unique developments among the homeless. We also share practical prevention strategies and treatment guidelines.
Understanding bipolar disorder is more than recognizing fluctuations between exceptional joy, energy, or extreme lows. Individuals living with this disorder can experience significant shifts in behavior, judgment, and clarity of thought. Our discussion aims to illuminate the importance of mental health and delivers a call to action for our community to recognize the vital need for professional healthcare services.
Each aspect of bipolar disorder is dissected as we dwell into early signs of its onset, potential triggers, and identify how it particularly influences the homeless population. We outline the role sleep irregularity plays in exacerbating the disorder's symptoms and highlight several other indicators of bipolar disorder such as heightened irritation, grandiose planning, sudden spending sprees, hyper-sexuality, and impulsiveness.
We examine the intricate connection between homelessness and bipolar disorder. Trauma and stress trigger the disorder, while the symptoms of the condition can often lead to homelessness. Substance abuse further complicates this issue, thus creating a recurring cycle of homelessness, substance abuse, and bipolar disorder. Understanding this interlinked relationship is the key to mitigating the consequences of this devastating mental health condition.
We stress the importance of mental health in overcoming homelessness, covering the challenges of living on the streets with limited access to healthcare resources. The episode provides practical tips - from achieving a regular sleep schedule to integrating stress management practices, such as basic breathing exercises. The significance of nutritious food intake is highlighted, along with simple mood-tracking techniques for improved self-understanding. The episode concludes on a hopeful note, reminding listeners that being homeless does not define a person and that their situation can improve.
 
What You Will Discover:
Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Dive deep into the dynamics of bipolar disorder, learning about the manic and depressive phases that characterize this complex mental health condition.
Symptoms and Diagnosis: Discover how to identify the symptoms of bipolar disorder, including depressive episodes and mania, and the challenges faced in its diagnosis.
Early Warning Signs: Learn about the early warning signs of bipolar disorder, such as sporadic sleep schedules, increased irritation, and unpredictable passions, which can provide crucial insights for early intervention.
Impact of Homelessness: Explore the intricate relationship between homelessness and bipolar disorder, including how factors like sleep disruption and substance use (e.g., cocaine, heroin, fentanyl) can exacerbate the condition.
Practical Tips: Gain practical strategies for managing life with bipolar disorder, emphasizing sleep normalization, stress reduction, and community support to enhance mental health management.
 
Email me! streetstrongpodcast@gmail.com 
Website: www.streetstrong.life. 
911 - EMERGENCIES!
 
 
Mental Health or Substance Use Treatment Referral and Information Hotline.
 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
 
 
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
 
 
Need Help Finding Treatment?
https://findtreatment.gov/
 
 
Call 211 for LOCAL ASSISTANCE!
 
You can always call 211 to speak to someone and find local assistance, but there are also dedicated helplines available to anyone in the U.S.
Veterans Crisis Line: call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and press 1; or text 838255
Crisis Text Line: text the word 'Home' to 741-741
The Trevor Lifeline for LGBTQ Youth: call 1-866-488-7386
The Trans Lifeline: call 1-877-565-8860
 
 

"Unlocking the Secret Superfood: 5 Major Benefits of Canned Fish and it's Role in Homeless Mental Health

Title: The Magic of Canned Fish: Homeless Staple for Mental Health
In this eye-opening episode, discover the incredible versatility and nutritional powerhouse of canned fish, an affordable and portable food staple that offers significant health benefits, especially for the homeless community. Learn about its extended shelf life, which makes canned fish a superb choice for those without regular access to fresh food or cooking facilities.
What You Will Discover:
Affordability and Accessibility: Understand how canned fish, priced between $2 to $4, provides a cost-effective, nutrient-rich food option.
Shelf Life and Convenience: Explore how the airtight preservation of canned fish allows it to be stored in cool, dark places for up to five years, making it ideal for situations without refrigeration.
High Protein Content: Dive into the benefits of the high protein content in canned fish, which helps in muscle recovery, tissue maintenance, and feeling fuller for longer, reducing the need for unnecessary snacking.
Nutrient Density: Get detailed insights into the essential nutrients found in canned fish, such as phosphorus, vitamin B12, iron, selenium, vitamin D, and choline, which support various bodily functions from brain health to immune system regulation.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Learn about the myriad health benefits of Omega-3s found in seafood, from improving mental health and enhancing heart health to supporting brain function and boosting the immune system.
Environmental Considerations and Health Warnings: Be informed about the types of fish with the lowest risk of mercury and those packed in water versus oil for better health choices.
Community Engagement: We encourage our listeners to participate in or organize community drives to donate canned fish, highlighting how these small acts contribute to larger community health benefits.
Share Your Stories: Engage with us by sharing your own recipes and experiences on how canned fish has influenced your life or supported community health.
Tune in to uncover the hidden benefits of canned fish and why it's more than just a meal option—it's a vital resource for wellness and survival in challenging conditions.

The Inspiring Journey of Addiction Champion Brice Hancock CEO of Mile-High Recovery Center.

Featuring an enlightening and heart-touching conversation with Brice Hancock, known for his extraordinary transformation from battling addiction to being a catalyst for recovery in others, this episode of Street Strong delves deep into the multifaceted nature of addiction. With Brice, we journey from his early career as a musician and entrepreneur to his game-changing role in the fight against substance abuse. This unfiltered conversation brings out the human side of addiction, ushering empathy for those battling it and giving hope to those searching for help.
Get inspired by Brice's remarkable testament to recovery and faith, highlighting how he confronted personal struggles and dedicated his life to championing recovery pathways for others. This episode is a guide on how to step up and embrace a better life, unraveling Mile High Recovery Center’s distinctive approach and inspirational insights. It’s about realizing that help is gravitating towards you, the power of faith to overcome fear, and making that gutsy move to take the initial leap.
Delve into an exploration on overcoming cravings, preventing relapses, handling societal pressures, and dealing with an environment that offers instant gratification while fueling addiction. Hear out a survivor's take on managing addiction wisely and bravely. Brice also shares invaluable tips for those considering their options for therapy through Alcoholic Anonymous (AA) meetings, underlining how this community leads to a simpler yet joyful life.
We also touch on the hushed conversations of how yoga and spiritual practices aid in overcoming addiction and how to replace your unhealthy addiction with a healthier one. We aim to de-stigmatize addiction with our discussions on embracing vulnerability, being comfortable with addressing the root cause, and not being bogged down by societal judgments.
Lastly, discover how a committed journey towards self-improvement can translate into everlasting recovery. The episode concludes with Brice profiling his creation, the differences between a sober-living house and a recovery center, and why a sense of belonging, connection, and mutuality are essentials to recovery. This story is a living testament to the endurance of the human spirit facing adversity, a hopeful beacon for everyone battling addiction, and a guide to liberating oneself from the chains of addiction.
 
See More of Brice Hancock, his wonderful team and his work at Mile High Recovery Center
https://milehighrecoverycenter.com/ 
 
website: streetstrong.life
 
email me: streetstrongpodcast@gmail.com 

10 Signs You Might be Depressed

In this transformative episode of Street Strong, we delve into a critical conversation that touches many lives yet often goes undiscussed: depression. “10 Signs You Might Be Depressed” is an eye-opening journey through the subtle and not-so-subtle indicators of depression, interwoven with faith, resilience, and the raw stories from the heart of Skid Row.
Join us as we explore practical tips for recognizing depression, supported by poignant narratives of overcoming adversity through faith and inner strength.
Whether you’re struggling silently, know someone who might be, or are simply interested in broadening your understanding of mental health, this episode is a beacon of hope and a source of information. We share real-life stories that not only highlight the struggle but also the triumphs of resilience and faith in the face of mental health challenges.
 
From the depths of Skid Row to the heights of spiritual and emotional recovery, our discussions are designed to inform, inspire, and ignite change.
Listeners will find valuable insights into the signs of depression, including changes in mood, sleep patterns, and interest in daily activities, underscored by the powerful narratives of those who’ve walked this path. Beyond identification, this episode is rich with practical tips for seeking help, leaning into faith, and harnessing the power of community and personal resilience.
“10 Signs You Might Be Depressed” is more than just a podcast episode; it’s a call to action and awareness, urging everyone to look beyond the surface and recognize the strength in seeking help and supporting others. Street Strong continues its mission to shed light on the darkest corners of human experience, bringing forth stories of hope, faith, and resilience that resonate with listeners from all walks of life.
Tune into this compelling episode to empower yourself with knowledge, understand the importance of mental health awareness, and learn how faith and resilience can turn the tide against depression. Remember, you’re not alone, and together, we can make a difference in the lives of many. Join us on Street Strong, where every story is a step toward strength and every voice matters.
 
 

5 Big Reasons To Challenge Your Thoughts

In this profound episode of 'Street Strong', we offer a beacon of hope by questioning the truth behind our thoughts. Targeted towards those battling their own thoughts amidst challenging circumstances such as homelessness, we aim to breathe new life into your perceptions and your personal potential. We closely examine five very crucial reasons why your thoughts might not always be the ultimate truth and what you can do about it.
We offer a shoulder of support sharing poignant experiences from the inhabitants of Skid Row. Drawing from the real-life struggles of despair, we share reasons to rethink your absolute reliance on every thought. We provide practical insights to peel away the layers of conditioned thinking and unlock a fresh, liberating perspective that sets you free from self-imposed mental constraints.
We guide you through an exploration of the predictive nature of human brains, taking survival over truth. Along the way, we help you uncover the momentous realization - are your thoughts reflecting the true world around you? We discourse on the influence of past experiences and beliefs on our present mental state and how they could muddle the waters of our current existence.
Just like transient clouds or fickle ocean waves, human thoughts frequently undergo change. It is crucial to acknowledge and not be tethered to any single thought despite the overpowering emotions of depression or anxiety. We also discuss the tendency of the brain to create biases and take shortcuts for energy conservation that could act as pitfalls when forming decisions.
In this episode, we also delve into the perilous impact of initial thoughts and first impressions that could lead to self-misconceptions. Illustrating with relatable scenarios such as reacting to an unknown menu item or a peculiar interaction with a stranger, we develop an understanding of the brain's tendency to create perceptions based on first impressions. Simultaneously, we explore how childhood experiences can influence our self-assumptions while reminding the audience that these first impressions do not determine our worth.
We wrap up the episode by introspecting on a powerfully liberating thought - assessing a belief that we have shed recently. This leaves you with a profound daily exercise to aid personal transformation and understand that self-perceptions are neither definitive nor unalterable.
Listen to gain control over your divisive thoughts, drive your life in the direction of choice, and share the many illuminating insights gathered with those who might need them. Leave us your feedback and recommendations for future episodes to keep the conversation going.
 
website:
www.streetstrong.life 
message me at: StreetStrongPodcast@gmail.com

The Skid Row Secret to Beating Addiction

In this enlightening episode of Street Strong, we dive deep into the concept of positive addictions and how they can dramatically transform our lives. Join us as we explore the groundbreaking work of renowned psychiatrist William Glasser, whose insights into human behavior have paved the way for a revolutionary approach to mental health and resilience. Whether you're struggling with negative habits or looking for ways to boost your motivation, this episode is a treasure trove of practical tips and inspiring stories.
What You Will Discover:
Positive Addictions: Understand what positive addictions are and how they differ from their negative counterparts.
Building Resilience: Strategies to enhance your ability to cope with stress and adversity.
Motivation Techniques: How to cultivate a drive that aligns with positive life changes.
Craving and Withdrawal: Navigating the challenges of overcoming negative habits.
Hope and Transformation: Real-life examples of individuals who have replaced detrimental addictions with life-affirming activities.
Practical Tips: From establishing routines to finding a supportive community, learn actionable steps to cultivate positive addictions.
Legacy of William Glasser: Delve into the psychiatrist's work and how it continues to influence the field of mental health today.
We explore the depths of addiction that hijack our minds and lead us on destructive paths, and how we can transcend and transform cravings into forces for personal development. We delve into the intriguing concept of 'positive addiction. This episode offers practical tips and examples on cultivating positive addictions, empowering listeners to reinvent their lives with the right mindset, treatment, and community support.
We, at Street Strong, believe in harnessing the strength of shared stories and learnings. We strive to spark hope, challenge what's possible, improve mental health, and motivate everyone to become their best selves. This is our journey of igniting a revolution, one spark at a time.
In addition, explore the practicalities of 'Positive Addictions. This episode provides actionable insights to incorporate the principles of positive addiction into everyday life, shifting from unhealthy dependencies to enriching practices. Learn from a  life-changing example, using faith as a significant positive addiction that helped overcome his past. This episode goes beyond a simple guide to positive addictions, serving as a catalyst for self-reflection and transformation.
At Street Strong community, we believe in the power every individual possesses to redefine their narratives, steer away from harmful addictions and lead a fulfilling life. So, immerse yourself in our community, share your experiences, ask questions, and be a part of our future conversations. Together, let’s shape a future of healthier, happier lives through the power of positive addictions.

Mind-Blowing Ways that Water Impacts Mental Health.

One of the most effective way's to boost our mental health is by drinking water. In order to drink more water, it’s critical that you understand the role that water plays in shaping our physical and mental health together. When your mind and body have are treated well, you’re able to change the way you think, feel and your overall behavior. 
On this episode of Street Strong, you are going to get powerful insights about how water can increase your energy, focus and reduce anxiety or depressive symptoms. 
In this episode you’ll discover:
how something as simple as water, connects us, empowers us and can be a complete game-changer for those struggling with homelessness. 
How water impacts nutrition and wellness
Why it can help fight against depression, anxiety or brain fog
Why water is especially key to homeless populations 
How water affects our physical and mental health 
How much water we need
Practical tips for homeless shelters or homeless populations to drink more water or improve access TO water. 
How water builds resiliency
How water combats stress. 
The spirituality behind water
How water is a human right declared by the United Nations
Other self-help tips to be @ your best!
And how this is all so much more than just quenching our thirst! 
Visit our website! www.streetstrong.life 
email me questions, recommendations or if you want to appear on STREET STRONG!
streetstrongpodcast@gmail.com 
 

BONUS EPISODE - THE COMPLETE GAME-CHANGE: WHY YOU SHOULD FEEL SO HOPEFUL ABOUT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

In this empowering bonus episode of STREET STRONG, we dive deep into why now, more than ever, it's time to harbor SO MUCH HOPE for the future of mental health. Amidst the backdrop of global challenges, including climate change, societal pressures, and the pervasive impact of depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction, we explore groundbreaking solutions that promise a brighter tomorrow.
Join us as we delve into the transformative potential of Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing mental health care. Discover how these technologies offer unprecedented opportunities for treatment, support, and understanding, paving the way for healing and resilience in the face of adversity.
But it's not just about the challenges; it's about the solutions, the motivation, and the inspiration. We discuss the power of collective action, the importance of empathy, and how individual stories of recovery can inspire a movement towards better mental health for all. From personal pep talks to societal shifts, this episode is a testament to the strength found in hope and the potential for change.