Previous Guest

Tracy Hargen (she/her)

Tracy joined Momma on October 25, 2021 to talk about Parenting & Caring for Kids’ Mental Health

About Tracy

Tracy Hargen has worked in sales and sales leadership positions in Corporate America for over 30 years. She spent most of her career leading sales teams at American Express, then in sales at ADP, Accenture and Oracle – spending time in NY/NJ and now in GA. Married to her husband TJ for over 30 years after knowing each other for a mere 6 months, they have two grown sons who live and work in Chicago. Her family’s deeply personal journey through depression with her younger son made her a passionate mental health advocate. It is her mission to remove the shame and stigma that needlessly surround mental health. She understands firsthand that you never know what other people are going through, and it is her hope that by speaking publicly she will raise awareness and speak for those who are unable to and who are suffering alone and in silence. Through her work, her intention is to reach someone who needs to hear her message of hope so they will know they are not alone, to change the way you think about mental health and to spark a conversation with your family and friends and get people talking. By sharing her experience, she shows people the importance of talking openly about mental health and the critical need to get people comfortable enough to ask for help and to utilize the mental health resources that are available to so many.

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Episode Summary

In this episode, we engage in a thoughtful and insightful conversation with Tracy Hargen on the vital subject of "Parenting & Caring for Kids' Mental Health." Tracy is a passionate advocate for mental health, drawing from her personal experiences to inspire and guide others in fostering a supportive environment for children's mental well-being.

The episode starts off strong, emphasizing the importance of addressing children's mental health and dismantling the stigma surrounding it. Tracy shares her journey as a parent of a child who struggled with mental health challenges. She candidly talks about her initial difficulties in recognizing and addressing these issues and the eventual realization that seeking help and support was essential. Her transparency serves as a beacon for others facing similar situations, reassuring them that they are not alone and that it's perfectly acceptable to ask for help.

The conversation takes an insightful turn as we explore the intersection of parenting, caregiving and children's mental health. Tracy discusses her perspective on self-care, emphasizing that parents must prioritize their well-being to be better caregivers to their children. She debunks the misconception that self-care is selfish and affirms that it's a necessary component of ensuring the health and happiness of the whole family.

An intriguing point raised during the conversation is the significance of modeling self-care for children. Tracy shares personal anecdotes about how she schedules self-care activities in her calendar, creating a structured routine that allows her to recharge and regain focus. She also mentions how her children have learned to respect her self-care time, demonstrating the importance of boundaries in parenting.

MommaFoxFire and Tracy underscore the authenticity and vulnerability that are crucial when discussing mental health. Tracy stresses the value of openness, honesty and the power of sharing personal stories in removing the stigma surrounding mental health. She further elaborates on the significance of obtaining consent when sharing someone else's experiences.

The episode delves into the transformative impact of mental health advocacy in today's digital age. Tracy highlights various innovative resources and platforms, such as text therapy and online support forums, which have emerged to provide easier access to mental health services for teens and adults alike. The internet has revolutionized the accessibility of information and support, making it easier for individuals to seek help without facing societal judgment.

Tracy leaves the listeners with a powerful message by referencing a book by Charlie Mackesy, titled "The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse." She shares an inspiring quote, "Asking for help isn't giving up, it's refusing to give up," which encapsulates the essence of the entire conversation. It's a reminder that seeking assistance and speaking openly about mental health challenges are acts of courage and strength.

Tracy's insights and personal anecdotes shed light on the critical role parents and caregivers play in nurturing children's mental health. This is a compelling episode that offers hope, understanding and actionable advice for anyone interested in the well-being of our future generations.

This episode of Even Tacos Fall Apart is an absolute must-listen for parents, caregivers and anyone dedicated to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for kids' mental health. Tracy's words serve as a powerful reminder that sharing experiences and seeking help are essential steps in breaking down the stigma around mental health and ensuring a brighter future for our children.