By: Alfredo Merceds
In a groundbreaking event at The Theater Center in Times Square, New York City, a pioneering mental health conference, “Your Trauma Talks,” is set to illuminate the pressing issues surrounding mental health and trauma. As the first of its kind to take place on Broadway, the conference brings together an inspiring array of speakers, each sharing their unique stories and insights to help break the stigma surrounding mental health.
Anja Pisckunov, one of the featured speakers, expressed her belief that now is the time for people to gain a deeper understanding of mental health and trauma. “Having been through some very traumatic situations myself, I feel a responsibility to share my experiences,” she stated. “I want to show others that healing is possible and that we can break these stigmas together.” Anja’s powerful message resonates with many who have faced similar struggles, encouraging them to open up and seek help.
Joining Anja is Yanick Séïde, who passionately advocates for the importance of speaking out about trauma. “So many people suffer in silence because they feel ashamed or misunderstood,” Yanick explained. “By sharing our stories, we create a safe space for others to do the same. It’s time to speak up and let people know they’re not alone.” Her commitment to fostering open dialogues around mental health is a crucial component of the conference’s mission.
Another remarkable voice at the conference is Susan Finley, known as “SueZee.” She brings a unique perspective on healing through sound therapy, a practice that transformed her life during her battle with lupus. “When I was at my lowest, feeling utterly defeated by depression, sound therapy changed everything for me,” SueZee shared. “I want to bring this transformative experience to Broadway and show others how sound can heal.” Her innovative approach to mental health emphasizes the importance of holistic healing modalities.
Rahul K. Maharaj, the visionary CEO of “Your Life Experiences with Rah” and “Your Trauma Talks,” emphasizes the conference’s significance: “This is not just drama; it’s trauma on Broadway.” With a mission to empower individuals to share their trauma stories, Rahul believes that these narratives can resonate deeply with others, fostering a sense of connection and understanding. “In this roller coaster ride we call life, it’s vital for people to know they’re not alone,” he remarked.
Rahul’s journey began over six years ago when he decided to confront the stigma surrounding mental health head-on. Through his platform, “Your Life Experiences with Rah,” he has traveled across the USA and beyond, speaking about the impact of mental health and suicide in today’s society. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, he authored two impactful books: “Untold Stories Hidden Truths,” which chronicles true stories from the Caribbean about overcoming trauma, which Rahul plans to bring to life in a TV series as all stories are the truth of other individuals lives like yourself., and his children’s book “Mellie and the Pandemic,” which addresses the realities of mental health when it comes to “CHANGE” as we all know the Pandemic happened and this book is inspired by true events.
As thos being the fourth mental health conference organized by Rahul and “Your Life Expereineces with Rah”, this event stands out, uniting a powerful group of individuals to discuss trauma and resilience. Attendees will leave with a profound new understanding of the importance of perseverance and the belief that everyone has a purpose in life. “Your Trauma Talks” will take place on October 3rd, and the anticipation is palpable as motivational speakers from across the globe converge in New York City.
Despite facing challenges in securing support for the conference, Rahul remains undeterred. “Many who claim to support mental health turned their backs when it came to helping with this cause,” he reflected. “But the show must go on. We must spread the word about managing mental health and letting people know they’re not alone in this struggle.”
With limited tickets available, Rahul urges everyone to seize the opportunity to attend this transformative event. “This is something you won’t want to miss,” he insists. The lineup features speakers from the USA, Canada, Bali, India, and Australia, each bringing their unique experiences and insights to the stage.
In closing, Rahul shares his inspirational mantra that resonates with many, the mantra he repeats weekly on his podcast, “Trauma Talk Thursdays.”: “What’s meant for you shall never pass you by, and what passes you by was never meant for you. Just as there was a man who had the blues because he had no shoes, while down the street he met a man with no feet.” He reminds us that self-reflection, self-belief, and self-love are essential components of living a fulfilling life and alleviating mental stress.
As the conference approaches, it stands as a beacon of hope and change, encouraging individuals to share their stories, embrace their journeys, and foster a supportive community around mental health. In the heart of Times Square, a movement is brewing—one that promises to change the narrative surrounding mental health and trauma for years to come.
Rahul would like to say a special thanks to “NAMI NYC” for collaborating and supporting this mental health conference. With additional thanks to “Wings of Dorcas Inc. and Universal Construction Inc. for their continuous support.
Published By: Aize Perez
