Isa Perry: Rethinking Mental Health in Crisis

In this episode of Mental Health Momentum, host Dr. David Morgan sits down with Isa Perry, a seasoned public health professional with nearly three decades of experience serving her community through the Davis County Health Department.Isa shares her personal journey where she grew up unaware of mental health challenges, how to navigate family trauma, and ultimately developing the resilience and perspective that now shape her work in community health. From supporting loved ones through depression, substance use, and domestic abuse to leading during one of the most chaotic public health crises in modern history, Isa and Dr. Morgan explore:Why mental health is a community-wide responsibilityHow the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped our understanding of connection, isolation, and controlThe hidden impact of trauma—both “big T” and “little T”—on emotional developmentWhy resilience isn’t taught—it’s built through experienceHow to rethink self-care as preparedness, not indulgenceOne of the most compelling takeaways?Mental health is about building a self-care system before, during, and after life’s hardest moments.If you’re a leader, parent, or anyone navigating the pressures of modern life, this episode offers a grounded, real-world perspective on how to stay steady when everything around you isn’t.