WHY EUSTRESSIN'?: D'ANGELO TAYLOR
D’Angelo utilizes music to help underserved population and I love it! It was dope to sit down with him to discuss how he adds Eustress to his life. Check it out!
HEY D'ANGELO, WHY EUSTRESSIN’?
WHAT DO YOU DO FOR A LIVING/ HOW LONG?
I've been working within the mental health field for over 7 years. I'm a licensed mental health counselor, coach, and consultant currently practicing in D.C and Northern Virginia. I'm also a Wraparound Facilitator for the Fairfax County Government Community Service Board. I'm the founder of Soundtrack to Life, where music production is the foundation for assisting at-risk and underserved populations with building self-esteem and resilience.
DO YOU EVER THINK ABOUT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH IN YOUR PROFESSION?
I always think about my mental health within this profession. In order for me to perform at my best, be present with my clients, and prevent myself from burning out, I must ensure that my mental health remains a priority.
WHAT UNIQUE CHALLENGES DO YOU ENCOUNTER SPECIFICALLY FOR YOUR JOB THAT HAS AN IMPACT ON YOUR MENTAL HEALTH THAT OTHERS MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT?
We build connections after spending some time with clients. Working with young children and teens has its limitations. After connecting and having a great session, many returns back to the same environments and their circumstances don't change. This causes me to reflect on my life often and appreciate things much more.
WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU SHOULD ALSO CONSIDER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH WHEN TAKING ON DAY-TO-DAY ACTIVITIES?
As I began to take on new roles and handle more responsibilities. Working in this field, being a father, being an entrepreneur and businesses owner, going to grad school, along with maintaining everything else going in my life, began to cause me to reflect on my own mental health needs.
HOW DO YOU MANAGE THOSE STRESSORS ON A DAY-TO-DAY BASIS?
Prayer, meditation, and me talking with my family has really helped me manage my stressors. Making todo list and creating a plan for my days really allows me to make the most of the day. I even schedule self-care days for myself. Also, doing things that I love to do such as working out, playing basketball, making beats, etc.
HOW DOES BEING MENTALLY HEALTHY HELP IN YOUR FIELD OF WORK OR ON THE JOB?
It allows me to be present with my clients and those I interact with on a day to day basis. I'm also much more confident in what I'm doing and effective when I'm mentally healthy.
WHAT DOES EUSTRESS LOOK LIKE FOR YOU AT WORK? AT HOME/AWAY FROM WORK?
Eustress at work for me is being prepared prior to a session or meeting. It 's also me taking care of any necessary tasks regarding work or my personal life that will decrease or prevent anxiety. Sometimes it's simply me making time for the things that are most important in my life (faith, family, health, friends, etc.)
WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD TELL SOMEONE JUST STARTING IN YOUR PROFESSION OR A YOUNG PERSON WHO ASPIRES TO BE THE PROFESSIONAL THAT YOU ARE?
Your mental health is just as important. I will encourage them to have a vision in mind for why they are choosing this field. Have mentors and surround themselves by like-minded people. Set goals and take nothing personal. I would encourage them to develop healthy self-care practices in order to prevent burnout and to keep them motivated on their journey
ANY OTHER INFORMATION YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOU AND WHAT YOU’RE UP TO?
Stay tuned for the Soundtrack to Life Podcast as there will be discussions on mental health topics along with guest speakers and other interesting segments.
Soundtrack to Life apparel can be found on www.thesoundtracktolife.org
Follow @TheSoundtracktoLifeInc on all social media for updates on events, programs, and announcements.
HOW CAN PEOPLE CONTACT YOU FOR MORE INFORMATION?
Website:
https://www.thesuperdopenation.org
Instagram:
thesoundtracktolifeinc
Facebook:
SoundtrackToLifeinc
