Amanda Young - Mental Health Advocate, Author and Podcast Host
Amanda Young
Amanda Young is a Mental Health Advocate, Author and Podcast Host whose personal mission is to help eliminate the stigma of brain illnesses by educating people on what depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress and bipolar actually are. She starts important conversations on her social media platforms and podcast by encouraging others to speak up and seek help. Amanda is a firm believer that her brain health conditions and her unique voice are her superpowers. The ability to feel in extremes gives her empathy not everyone has – allowing her to continue helping others find their voice.
I’m excited for you to connect with Debby, check out her work and impact, and follow along as she continues to use her voice to advocate for mental health awareness and acceptance
I'd love it if you'd introduce yourself, what you do, and what you're working on.
My name is Amanda Young and people have described me as a serial entrepreneur, although I like to think of myself as extremely passionate and creative. Before launching my brand That Manda Girl fulltime in 2021, I was an animal trainer who worked with incredible marine and terrestrial mammals; something I had worked my entire life to achieve. Life threw me some curveballs resulting in my bittersweet decision to leave the animal training field in pursuit of a new adventure. I am currently a children’s book author, mental health podcast host and bipolar disorder advocate who uses her unique voice to start important conversations surrounding social stigma and stereotypes.
How did you get started?
I started my platform initially while I was working with killer whales at SeaWorld - we all know the terrible documentary that came out and catapulted the internet into swirling hate for a company that does so much good. I realized that while people were so upset about the animals being there, they weren’t giving the people who took care of them enough credit for the hard work it was to care for those incredible whales. I decided to use my voice to begin humanizing a group of dedicated people, the trainers, and gave a behind the scenes look at what it was like to work with animals. I continued this message when I transitioned from killer whales to working with elephants and really began to form a community of open minded and passionate individuals who wanted to learn.
This desire to give a voice to those in need only blossomed over the years as my platform online grew with my interests. I became incredibly passionate about mental health advocacy after my own crisis and wanted to make sure no one else felt as alone or drowning like I did. I had always battled depression and anxiety, but years of stuffing those feelings down caught up with me and eventually caused an all out claw for survival. I was lucky enough to arrive at a diagnosis that changed my life forever: I not only had Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety, but also Bipolar 2 Disorder.
What Inspired the work you’re doing?
In those moments after receiving my diagnosis, I initially felt immense shame and fear about this huge label. Months after I gave the chance to let my new medication work, I found a new rhythm in my life - one where I cherished the things about me that were so unique. I began to believe that my brain chemistry wasn’t my downfall, but actually my superpower! The ability that I had to feel in extremes, gave me immense empathy and I knew I wanted to use that to help others.
What is your biggest passion? Do you feel like you're living your passion and purpose?
My biggest passion is to continue finding ways to love, honor and appreciate my body that got me to where I am. My life was an uphill battle for so many years when it came to mental health and at times I didn’t know if it was worth it to continue. Everyday, I thank my body for fighting to see another tomorrow and really hope to impart that message to others. What sets me on fire is the ability to use my unique gifts to help others in realizing their own worth.
What is your joy blueprint? What lights you up, brings you joy, and makes you feel the most alive?
I feel most alive when I am creating. I love to sew, crochet, paint and find new projects to consume my brain. Colors make me incredibly happy and I’ve attached myself to the rainbow - showing that all colors and aspects of my mind can unite to make something incredibly beautiful.
How do you live intentionally? Are there tools/resources/practices that you rely on to help you stay mindful and grounded?
As someone living with Bipolar Disorder, I have to be extremely intentional with my mind. Since falling into depressive or manic episodes is inevitable, I really have taken time to listen to my body and mind to find that balance. I give myself grace when I need it, allowing my mind to let go of the perfectionism and hustle culture that I used to cling to. I personally love journaling my thoughts and feelings out, moving my body in the form of exercise and surrounding myself with a support system that truly cares for me.
What would your younger self think about what you're doing now?
I think high school Amanda would be shocked that she’s using her voice to impact others. Throughout my younger years, I was always told that I’m “too much” and felt the pressure of fitting into a societal box. I constantly tried to break that mold and feel so proud of the journey that brought me here.
Do you have a go-to mantra or affirmation?
My brain is different, and that’s my superpower.
What is your biggest dream?
You know, if you would’ve asked me that four years ago, I would’ve said working with Killer Whales… but now I’ve come to realize that my dreams should far outstretch an occupation or goal. Whether it’s reaching more people through my podcast, signing a major book deal or creating my children’s series into an animated show… my dream is to continue feeling fulfilled and giving my voice to support those in need.
To connect with Amanda and learn more check out her website https://thatmandagirl.com on social media at that_manda_girl and her podcast Sunshine + Rainbows can be found on all streaming platforms, her children’s book series “Manda’s Magical Zoo” can be found online at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
Joy Corner is an interview-style blog series brought to you by Seek The Joy Podcast. Our mission continues to be a desire to share your stories, truths, joys and inspiration in your words. We invite you to join our corner, and share your joys, passions, and moments of inspiration as we continue to seek the joy, together. Join this series here