In this powerful solo episode, I open up about navigating mental health as a Coloured person in South Africa. From growing up surrounded by silence around emotional struggles to seeking therapy and medication after personal loss, this episode is a gentle but honest unpacking of stigma, survival, and healing.

🎙️ May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and this conversation is for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure of how to ask for help.

I talk about:

* Cultural stigma in Coloured and Black communities

* The reality of depression and anxiety

* Accessing therapy and affordable support in SA

* The dangers of self-diagnosis

* Mental health and Christianity

* What healing and self-care look like in real life

💛 You’re not alone. Healing is possible.

📞 Mental Health Support (South Africa):SADAG 24-Hour Helpline: 0800 456 789Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567WhatsApp Chat: 076 882 2775

📬 Contact Stories Between Sips:Email: storiesbetweensips@gmail.comInstagram: @storiesbetweensipsTikTok: @storiesbetweensips

🎧 Tune in this Friday for Part 2, featuring Ilze Gopal — a mom, poet, and friend living with bipolar disorder who shares her lived experience with vulnerability and grace.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesbetweensips.substack.com