Mental Wellness Mastery: Jessica Frasier Of Hope Again Counseling On Everyday Life Hacks For Optimal Mental Wellness
An Interview With Eden Gold
Spend Time in Nature Daily: Make it a habit to incorporate nature into your daily routine, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Fresh air and the sunshine causes immediate physiological responses in our bodies that contribute to mental wellness. From serotonin and melatonin production to a simple mindful break from the stress of the day. Whether it’s a walk in the park during your lunch break or sitting in your backyard after work, immersing yourself in nature can have profound effects on your mental well-being.
In our modern, fast-paced society, mental wellness is a crucial aspect of leading a fulfilling life. However, for many people, achieving and maintaining good mental health can be a challenging task, with obstacles such as stress, anxiety, depression, and more. That’s why it’s essential to have practical and accessible strategies for mental wellness that can help build resilience, emotional intelligence, and overall well-being. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Jessica Frasier, LPC-S.
Jessica Frasier, a distinguished Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, founded Hope Again PLLC in Friendswood, TX, driven by her rich qualifications including Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, Certified Trauma Practitioner, and Advanced Grief Recovery Method Specialist. Graduating from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin with a Masters degree in Community and School Counseling in 2015, Jessica’s personal experiences with loss ignited a profound passion for guiding individuals through grief, emphasizing a holistic approach to mental wellness. Beyond grief counseling, her expertise extends to the connection between nutrition, lifestyle, and mental well-being, offering tailored treatment plans for clients of all ages. With a diverse background spanning various counseling services, Jessica illuminates the path to resilience and renewal, fostering positive mental health practices at Hope Again.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series. Before we dive into our discussion about cultural sensitivity, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share with us the backstory about what brought you to your specific career path?
My journey to my current career path as a therapist has been deeply rooted in personal experience. Like many therapists, my motivation stems from my own story of overcoming adversity.
My personal journey has been one marked by loss, pain, growth, and ultimately, healing. Through various experiences, I’ve come to understand the profound impact that mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being can have on one’s life. I’ve navigated the path of healing, sometimes stumbling along the way, and at other times experiencing moments of profound clarity and wellness.
Having navigated through my own struggles, I’ve developed a deep empathy and understanding for those grappling with similar challenges. It’s this empathy that drives me to help others find hope and healing in their own lives. Whether it’s coping with pain, anxiety, sadness, or simply feeling unwell, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards greater well-being.
Ultimately, my personal experiences have not only shaped my career path but also fuel my passion for guiding others towards a place of strength, resilience, and inner peace.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?
You know, it’s tough to pinpoint just one standout story from my career, especially considering the confidentiality aspect. But when it comes to mental wellness, there’s this one client who truly stands out. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with numerous individuals battling severe mental health conditions — depression, suicidal ideations, anxiety, bipolar disorder, intense grief, you name it.
Among these cases, there was one client who had been wrestling with these issues for over three decades. They had seen more therapists, acupuncturists, MDs, and chiropractors than one could possibly count. When they crossed paths with me, we delved into some significant work together. However, what truly transformed their life wasn’t just our sessions — it was a holistic approach that involved some unconventional steps.
This client decided to dig deeper and got comprehensive blood work done. Surprisingly, the results unveiled deficiencies that previous doctors had dismissed as mere signs of aging. Yet, instead of accepting this fate, they took charge of their health and worked on correcting those imbalances. And you wouldn’t believe it — their depression lifted almost like magic.
It’s moments like these that reaffirm a fundamental truth: our bodies and minds are intricately connected. Sometimes, addressing physical deficiencies can have profound impacts on our mental well-being. It’s not always about just talk therapy or medication — sometimes, it’s about listening to what our bodies are telling us and giving them the care and nourishment they truly need. It’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving, and that’s a journey I’m honored to walk alongside my clients.
You are a successful individual. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
Three character traits that have been most instrumental to my success are resilience, determination, and empathy. From my childhood to the early years of my business, I’ve demonstrated resilience by developing coping mechanisms, problem-solving skills, and emotional strength to overcome adversity. For instance, when I first opened my private practice, I faced challenges such as paying rent for six months without a single client. Despite the setbacks, I persevered, eventually finding a subleased office on a “pay what you can” basis. This determination sustained me through the difficult first year, as I gradually built up my client base and expanded my practice.
Furthermore, empathy has been essential in my role as a therapist. Understanding and relating to my clients’ emotions allows me to create a supportive and nurturing environment where they feel seen, heard, and understood. By connecting with my clients on a deep emotional level, I’ve been able to establish meaningful therapeutic relationships that contribute to their healing and growth.
Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview about mental wellness mastery.
You know, it’s fascinating how something as simple as the sun can have such a profound impact on our mental wellness. It’s something I always make a point to discuss in my initial sessions with clients. When you think about it, our bodies are designed to thrive in the natural world, and being outdoors is where we truly belong.
The sun, in particular, is an incredible resource that many of us tend to overlook in our modern lives. Our careers and homes no longer depend on the sun’s cycles like they once did, so it’s easy to forget its importance. But the truth is, the sun plays a crucial role in regulating our biological functions.
Think about it — sunlight influences our sleep patterns, triggers the production of essential vitamins like Vitamin D, and even stimulates the production of hormones like melatonin and serotonin, which are vital for mood regulation.
I came across this concept a few years back called “Smart Sun” and it really resonated with me. Essentially, it’s about syncing our daily routines with the natural rhythms of the sun. It suggests waking up and exposing ourselves to sunlight as soon as or right before it rises, and winding down as the sun sets.
Now, I understand that might sound a bit ambitious for some people’s lifestyles. But even if you just take that nugget of knowledge and make small adjustments, like incorporating more sun exposure into your day, it can make a significant difference in your overall well-being. It’s about reconnecting with our natural environment and honoring the innate wisdom of our bodies.
How do you recommend individuals recalibrate their mental wellness after experiencing a significant setback or failure?
Experiencing setbacks or failures is a natural part of life, and how we navigate through them can significantly impact our mental well-being. One thing I always emphasize is allowing ourselves to truly feel and experience our emotions. Emotions are meant to be acknowledged, processed, and then released. When we suppress or ignore them, they tend to manifest in physical discomforts like ulcers, jaw pain, or intense anger. Essentially, emotions are energy within our bodies that need to be released to maintain mental wellness.
So, the first step after a setback is to let yourself feel it all. Allow your body to do what it’s designed to do — experience the emotions. Then, it’s crucial to examine how you’re thinking about the setback. Our mindset plays a significant role in how we respond to challenges. I recently came across some insightful ideas in the book “Atomic Habits,” which delves into the power of mindset. It’s all about reframing our thoughts from a place of limitation to one of opportunity.
For instance, instead of saying “I have to go to work,” we can shift our perspective to “I get to go to work.” This simple change in language can completely alter our perception of the situation. Similarly, when faced with setbacks, we need to challenge ourselves to find the positive truths within them. Is this setback an opportunity for growth? What can we learn from this experience?
I once had a client who came to me after experiencing a significant death in her life. The very first thing she said was, “I can’t let this pain turn into cancer.” I immediately knew she understood how emotions worked and would be able to do the therapeutic work to heal. This story underscores the importance of acknowledging emotions and understanding their potential impact on our well-being.
By acknowledging our emotions and reassessing our thoughts, we can prevent those same negative feelings from resurfacing repeatedly. It’s about empowering ourselves to overcome setbacks and get back on the path to mental wellness. Remember, setbacks are not roadblocks — they’re opportunities for growth and resilience.
In your experience, what is a common misconception about mental health that hinders people from seeking help or improving their wellness?
A common misconception about mental health that hinders people from seeking help or improving their wellness is the belief that mental health issues are inherently negative or shameful. Many individuals perceive mental health problems as a sign of personal weakness or failure, leading to feelings of embarrassment or stigma associated with seeking assistance.
In reality, mental health exists on a spectrum, much like physical health. Just as we all experience physical health fluctuations, from good days to challenging ones, our mental well-being follows a similar pattern. Some days, we may feel emotionally resilient and balanced, while other days, we may struggle with stress, anxiety, or low mood.
Understanding that mental health is a natural and integral part of overall well-being is crucial for overcoming the stigma and barriers to seeking help. Viewing mental health check-ins as routine and proactive measures, akin to annual physical exams or dental appointments, can help normalize discussions around mental wellness. Just as we prioritize preventive care for our physical health, it’s essential to recognize the importance of proactive mental health maintenance.
By reframing mental health as a continuum that requires ongoing attention and care, individuals are more likely to seek support when needed and engage in strategies to promote their overall well-being. Breaking down misconceptions and fostering open dialogue about mental health is key to creating a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to prioritize their mental wellness.
Can you share a transformative moment or client story that highlights the power of a specific mental wellness strategy?
A client came to me struggling with anxiety and sleeplessness. Sleep is one of my favorite topics to explore because often there are a few key behaviors one can implement that have a direct impact on quality of sleep. Each night this client fell asleep right after praying those facing hardship, unknowingly carrying the weight of the world’s problems on her mind as she drifted off to sleep. Recognizing the toll this nightly ritual took on her mental well-being, she made a conscious shift. By adopting a practice of gratitude prayers before bedtime and reserving mornings for prayers of support and positivity for her loved ones, her sleep drastically improved within a mere few days of altering her routine.
Based on your experience and research, can you please share “5 Everyday Life Hacks For Optimal Mental Wellness?”
- Spend Time in Nature Daily: Make it a habit to incorporate nature into your daily routine, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Fresh air and the sunshine causes immediate physiological responses in our bodies that contribute to mental wellness. From serotonin and melatonin production to a simple mindful break from the stress of the day. Whether it’s a walk in the park during your lunch break or sitting in your backyard after work, immersing yourself in nature can have profound effects on your mental well-being.
- Story: Witnessing teens in the midst of panic attacks, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of nature. Stepping outside for a walk amidst greenery, within just 90 seconds, their frantic breathing begins to slow. By the end of our walk, calmness and connection replace panic, demonstrating nature’s remarkable ability to soothe and heal.
- Practice Gratitude Daily: Take a few moments each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for. Cultivating a gratitude practice can shift your focus from negativity to positivity, leading to greater mental resilience and well-being.
- A recent client sought my help to address their struggles with anxiety and sleeplessness. Delving into the topic of sleep, I discovered that simple behavioral changes can significantly impact sleep quality. Nightly, the client would fall asleep after praying for those facing hardship, inadvertently carrying the world’s burdens into their sleep. Recognizing the toll this ritual took on their mental well-being, we worked together to shift their routine. By practicing gratitude prayers before bedtime and dedicating mornings to prayers of support and positivity for loved ones, the client experienced remarkable improvement in their sleep within just a few days.
- Prioritize Connection: Despite living in an era of unprecedented connectivity, loneliness remains a pervasive issue. Studies underscore loneliness as a prominent contributor to depression, revealing a stark reality: despite our myriad avenues for connection, we’re experiencing unprecedented levels of isolation. Foster meaningful connections with others by spending quality time with loved ones and engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Connection is a powerful antidote to loneliness and can significantly improve your mental health.
- Eat whole foods: Nutrition not only fuels our bodies but also plays a fundamental role in supporting our mental health. Consuming whole foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants provides our brains with the necessary nutrients to function optimally. By prioritizing whole, nutrient-dense foods and mindful hydration, we not only support our physical health but also provide our brains with the essential building blocks for optimal mental well-being.
- Move Your Body Regularly: Engage in physical activity that you enjoy, whether it’s going for a run, practicing yoga, or dancing to your favorite music. Exercise releases endorphins, improves mood, and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression.
What role does technology play in mental wellness today, and how can individuals leverage it positively without exacerbating mental health issues?
Technology plays a significant role in mental wellness today, offering both benefits and challenges. Social media platforms, for instance, have the potential to foster a sense of community and provide isolated individuals, especially young people, with supportive contacts. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that excessive or problematic use of social media and the internet can have adverse effects on mental health, including an increased risk of suicide attempts.
Research suggests that certain behaviors on social media, such as active public engagement like status updates, and engaging in social comparison, can exacerbate mental health issues. Therefore, it’s essential to approach technology use mindfully. Setting boundaries, connecting with people privately for support, limiting seeking support from the masses, being selective about what you consume with your time online, and being intentional with your time spent offline are all strategies to promote healthier technology habits and safeguard mental well-being.
You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
If I were to catalyze a movement, it would revolve around something deeply impactful like “The Blue Zones Project.” This initiative draws inspiration from the profound insights shared in the book “The Blue Zones,” focusing on fostering holistic health within entire communities.
Imagine schools cultivating fresh produce, vibrant community gardens, and engaging in collective wellness events. These initiatives wouldn’t just benefit individuals — they’d elevate the health and vitality of entire neighborhoods.
By embracing lifestyle changes inspired by The Blue Zones Project, communities could experience transformative shifts in well-being, fostering healthier, happier lives for all. It’s about creating environments where healthy choices are not only accessible but celebrated — a movement that could truly bring widespread good to countless lives.
How can our readers further follow you online?
I am on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/hopeagaincounseling
Instagram at @hope.again.counseling
Website: www.hopeagaincounseling.com
Thank you for the time you spent sharing these fantastic insights. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
About The Interviewer: Eden Gold, is a youth speaker, keynote speaker, founder of the online program Life After High School, and host of the Real Life Adulting Podcast. Being America’s rising force for positive change, Eden is a catalyst for change in shaping the future of education. With a lifelong mission of impacting the lives of 1 billion young adults, Eden serves as a practical guide, aiding young adults in honing their self-confidence, challenging societal conventions, and crafting a strategic roadmap towards the fulfilling lives they envision.
Do you need a dynamic speaker, or want to learn more about Eden’s programs? Click here: https://bit.ly/EdenGold
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