Show notes
In this episode, Jay Shifman shares his struggle with a misdiagnosed mental health disorder, two suicide attempts, addiction to prescription pills, and, his long journey to recovery. Jay is a vulnerable storyteller, stigma-destroying speaker, podcaster, and event host. He hosts a wildly popular podcast Choose Your Struggle that has been downloaded over 35 countries. Jay’s personal story of struggle is familiar to the millions of people all over the world who also struggle with issues of mental health, substance misuse, and addiction. Now in long-term recovery, it is Jay’s mission to encourage difficult conversations and honest education. Jay uses his voice, and his platforms to educate, entertain, and empower. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife, Lauren, and their dog, Nell.Connect with Jay: JayShifman.com | ChooseYourStruggle.comJay’s Podcast: Choose Your StruggleSocial: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTokConnect with SoberSide Chat:Website: https://SoberSideChat.com/Full Shownotes & Transcript: https://sobersidechat.com/jay-shifman/Instagram: @sobersidechatTwitter: @sobersidechatWhat we discussed during the show: 00:00 Intro01:56 Jay's favorite quote: “He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how.” ― Friedrich Nietzsche.” 06:33 Jay’s background and struggles10:50 Why Jay prefers the term ‘substance misuse’ (instead of ‘substance abuse’)13:07 Examples of Jay’s favorite practices for mental health care and how we can implement them in our everyday lives16:51 Substance misuse red flags20:54 The key to finding long term success in recovery24:05 Why Jay considers himself in recovery without being sober29:05 About Jay’s podcast ‘Choose Your Struggle’ and his narrative series ‘Rock Bottom Storytellers’33:15 Jay’s lowest point in life37:00 Happiest moment of life39:12 What do people often get wrong about her41:19 Rapid Fire round - 5 QuestionsWhat's on his nightstandFavorite mealHours of sleep he gets every nightFavorite TV showOne thing he's grateful for today42:57 Jay’s advice to anyone struggling with addictionOther episodes you might like:Using Yoga as a Tool to Address AddictionOne Day at a Time – A Life StoryLiving a Purposeful Life in SobrietyEmbracing Discomfort to Begin Healing in Sobriety