Connecticut Destigmatized - Justyna Wawrzonek, LCSW, LADC

Justyna Wawrzonek, LCSW, LADC | website

Why do you do what you do?

I am a psychotherapist and author about emotional wellbeing because I believe everyone has the potential to embrace their emotions and live a meaningful and fulfilling life. Anxiety, depression and other mental and emotional challenges do not have to define anyone and stop them from living their best life. With the right support, tools and skill sets, we can all work through these challenges and live life from a place of personal power, confidence, courage, and strength.

How are you making the world a better place?

I am making a difference in the world by teaching others that experiencing emotions is a healthy and normal part of our human existence. Denying our emotions, suppressing and hiding them creates a state of turmoil and imbalance. Giving people permission to be in touch with their emotions in a world where emotions are not openly embraced is my super power!

What are your thoughts on the stigma around mental health and what solution(s) do you have to destigmatize it?

It's a shame that mental health stigma exists! It saddens me that judgment and biases exist, however, I am not letting this stop me from spreading my message. I believe that speaking our truth, owning our experiences, and embracing ourselves for who we are no matter what label is placed on us is the way to move past the stigma that exists. The more we can openly talk about our mental health experiences and show the world that this is a normal phenomenon that touches so many of us, the less of a taboo topic it will be.

What would you like to bring to our attention at this time?

I would like to share my new e-book, Embracing Your Emotions, Embracing Your Life: How to Think Less, Feel More & Be Happy with the world because it is my attempt at spreading the message that taking care of our emotional and mental state is so vital. We are not taught how to take care of these aspects of ourselves, so I created a beginner’s guide to understanding emotions and provided simple and effective tools that help readers connect, explore and manage their feelings in a healthy and positive way.

What is the best way for people to contact you to learn more?

If anyone is interested in my e-book or psychotherapy services, more information can be found on my website www.justynawawrzonek.com.