In this episode of SHE MD, we are joined by special guest Tay Lautner, co-host of the podcast The Squeeze alongside her husband, actor Taylor Lautner. Tay opens up about her mental health journey, sharing her experiences with anxiety, PTSD, and dissociation. Today, they explore the role of COVID-19 and social media in fueling the loneliness epidemic and discuss treatment options for trauma. Tay also sheds light on her foundation, The Lemons Foundation, her breast cancer scare, and the importance of understanding post-birth-control syndrome. Plus, hear the heartwarming story of how Tay and Taylor first met. This episode offers invaluable insights on mental health and the power of community in healing.
Tay Lautner is a mental health speaker and activist that is dedicated to ending the stigma around mental health by providing her community research, education, and support through her nonprofit The Lemons Foundation. The Lemons Foundation was founded in 2022 after Tay’s love for mental health became personal. Tay worked as a registered nurse through the height of the COVID pandemic which resulted in her having to leave her job due to developing depression, anxiety, and severe PTSD. Her passion for mental health inspired her to start a podcast with her husband, Taylor Lautner, called The Squeeze. The Squeeze has been dominating the Mental Health category across all platforms and is continuously one of the top ranked podcasts on the charts. The Squeeze has previously been seen on Call Her Daddy, Jimmy Fallon, Kelly Clarkson, The Today Show, CBS Mornings and more! Tay is so thrilled with all that The Lemons Foundation has done and will continue to do in the years to come. Here’s to ending the stigma!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. Support Healthcare Workers in Mental Health Recovery: Recognize the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare professionals. For those showing signs of PTSD or depression, recommend seeking therapy, especially trauma-focused options like EMDR, and consider brain scans as part of a comprehensive mental health assessment.
2. Promote Mental Health Awareness through Community Support: Highlight the efforts of organizations like the Lemons Foundation, which works to reduce stigma and increase access to mental health resources. Encourage others to contribute by volunteering, spreading awareness, or advocating for accessible mental health services.
3. Address the Loneliness Epidemic through Active Community Engagement: Emphasize the importance of community to combat isolation and depression. Encourage forming or joining supportive social networks and prioritizing face-to-face interactions over social media to foster meaningful connections.
4. Expand Awareness of Ketamine as a Treatment Option for Depression: Educate individuals about the potential benefits of ketamine as a treatment for suicidal ideation under medical supervision, while acknowledging access and affordability challenges. Advocate for increased funding and expanded access to this treatment for those in need.
5. Encourage Monitoring for Long-Term Birth Control Users: For those using hormonal birth control over extended periods, stress the importance of monitoring reproductive health, including ovarian reserve tests like AMH. Consider IUDs as an alternative to reduce the impact on ovulation, especially for those with mood concerns or migraines.
IN THIS EPISODE, HERE IS WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
RESOURCES:
Lemons By Tay Foundation - Website
Connect with SHE MD: