Amber's Time in Hell

Imagine making a decision that you think is best for your health only to find yourself in a situation that is not only unhealthy but downright harmful. That's at the center of the story my guest Amber Viola is sharing this week. You may recall Amber was a guest in November talking about her experience in the Navy, her local activism and podcast "Politics But Make It Fashion." This week Amber returns to share the details that led her to write and publish the short story: "72 Hours of Hell: My Time in the VA." Amber tells us about her mental health struggles and how she made the decision to check into the VA for mental health services only to have a series of bad encounters that led her to be transported to Lebanon, PA and be held for an involuntary commitment. Given that nearly 50 million Americans are experiencing a mental illness, this conversation and conversations like this one are vital to the well-being and quality of life for so many affected in this country. To learn more about a "302" or involuntary commitment in Pennsylvania, read here. Know that if you do need help, you can always text or call 988 in a time of crisis and if you want to learn more about support groups and education, visit the chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) in your geographic area. If you enjoy or benefit from this week's conversation, be sure to subscribe to this podcast and share with others who can gain information and insight. Post to your social media about it and/or write a review or testimonial. And if you would like to support the creation of this content, consider making a donation to my Buy Me A Coffee page. Whatever you do, I appreciate you from the bottom of my heart and the bottom of my wine glass. Follow Funny Wine Girl Jeannine on Facebook and Instagram for everyday funnies, her own stories of health and wellness, nature photos and occasional wine facts.