# Embracing Mental Health: A Journey to Wellness and Growth
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Chapter 1: Andy Johns and His Path to Healing
Andy Johns, an influential figure in the realm of startup growth, has helped numerous companies develop effective product strategies for sustainable user acquisition. His expertise has made him a sought-after advisor, including for early investments by Homebrew. Eventually, he transitioned into venture capital but took a step back to prioritize his mental health. In this interview, we delve into his journey and insights regarding mental wellness.
Hunter Walk: I appreciate your willingness to discuss this, Andy. Our connection spans some time, and I’m eager to explore your recent reflections on mental wellness. What led you to speak more openly about your experiences?
Andy Johns: My journey with mental health began in early 2010 when everything seemed to be going well. My career was thriving, I had a financial cushion, and my physical health was stable. However, I began experiencing severe panic attacks, nightmares, depression, and a pervasive feeling of losing control over my emotions. This prompted me to seek help from therapists as I felt my well-being was at stake.
In the years that followed, I engaged in focused mental health work, addressing childhood traumas that contributed to my struggles. This included extensive EMDR sessions, transformative psychedelic-assisted therapy, and a month-long stay at a trauma recovery center where I dedicated myself to healing. Although these experiences were challenging, they granted me a renewed outlook on life.
Through these changes and my interactions with others facing mental health challenges, I developed a passion for this field, which inspired me to share my story. Writing has become a vital part of my wellness routine, helping me stay accountable while also fostering connections within the tech community. Today, my conversations revolve more around personal challenges rather than solely focusing on startup growth.
The first video titled "A Coming Recession Worse Than 2008? - Once In A Lifetime Chance To Build Wealth | Codie Sanchez" discusses the current economic landscape and how it offers unique opportunities for wealth building. Codie Sanchez shares valuable insights on navigating financial challenges while maintaining a focus on personal growth.
Section 1.1: The Shift in Tech Culture
HW: The tech community seems to be rapidly destigmatizing mental health discussions. Do you agree, or is my perspective skewed by my own openness about being in therapy?
AJ: I concur. Generally, the tech sector appears more receptive to mental health conversations compared to many other industries. The progressive mindset prevalent in Silicon Valley has fostered greater awareness and acceptance of mental health issues. This is a quality I genuinely value about our field.
However, I have encountered some negative reactions from a few individuals, and I know others who have missed out on career opportunities due to biases against those with diagnosed mental health conditions. While the overall culture is improving, narrow-mindedness still exists among some individuals.
This is part of why I feel compelled to write about mental health. Having reached a place of professional contentment, I no longer seek fame or vast wealth. My focus is on achieving inner peace and emotional alignment with a purpose that enriches my life.
The second video, "Steven Bartlett's OBSESSION: The MINDSET Behind Diary Of A CEO | Rich Roll Podcast," explores the mindset necessary for success and personal fulfillment. Steven Bartlett shares his journey, emphasizing the importance of mental health in achieving one's goals.
Chapter 2: Establishing Boundaries for Well-Being
HW: As you continue this journey, are there specific types of work or personalities you now wish to avoid?
AJ: Absolutely. I’ve established clear boundaries to protect my mental health. I recently discussed the notion of an "acceptable range of tolerance" in a post emphasizing the importance of recognizing when to step back from work.
This concept, rooted in biology, suggests that both people and life thrive under optimal conditions. What works for one person may not work for another, so it's essential to tailor these conditions to individual needs.
I've learned that certain essentials are crucial for my well-being:
- I refuse to work with toxic individuals. My past experiences with bullying have shown me the emotional turmoil it creates, and I still struggle with setting boundaries around aggressive personalities.
- I prioritize a balanced lifestyle over financial gain. I limit my work to 20-30 hours a week to allow time for self-care and smarter work strategies.
- I commit to a daily regimen of wellness activities. Maintaining my physical health through exercise, proper nutrition, and medication helps me stay resilient against adversity.
- I focus on heart-centered work, driven by love and compassion, rather than purely financial incentives.
HW: What resources would you recommend for those looking to explore their mental health?
AJ: I’ve compiled a list of my favorite mental health and spirituality resources here. For foundational materials, I recommend:
- An interview with Dr. Gabor Maté that explores childhood experiences and adult behavior.
- "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk, a comprehensive yet accessible guide to healing trauma.
- "The Way to Love" by Anthony de Mello, which provides philosophical and spiritual insights on happiness.
- "Tribe" by Sebastian Junger, which addresses our need for connection and the impact of loneliness.
- "How to Change Your Mind" by Michael Pollan, a beginner's guide to the therapeutic use of psychedelics.
Thank you, Andy! It's vital to remember that while everyone faces unique challenges, no one is alone on this journey.