More Than the Bleeds: Debbie De La Riva on the Emotional Reality of Hemophilia

In this powerful episode, Jonathan James sits down with licensed professional counselor, longtime patient advocate, and Mental Health Matters Too founder Debbie De La Riva to pull back the curtain on the hidden mental health realities of living with a bleeding disorder. Together, they explore the anxiety nobody sees, the trauma carried from childhood medical experiences, the pressure to always appear strong, caregiver burnout, and the lasting impact of living with a chronic condition.As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, this conversation highlights the importance of prioritizing mental health alongside physical health—especially within chronic illness communities. Whether you’re living with a bleeding disorder, caring for someone who is, or supporting others through their journey, emotional well-being deserves attention, support, and open conversation. Learn more about Mental Health Awareness Month at https://mhanational.org/mental-health-month/Debbie shares how losing members of the bleeding disorders community led her to found Mental Health Matters Too and dedicate her life to helping others feel less alone. Jonathan shares personal stories of PTSD, discrimination, chronic pain, and the emotional exhaustion of always trying to appear normal.Together, they discuss:* Why trauma can stay in the body for decades* The emotional toll of chronic illness* Why many people hide behind the phrase “I’m fine”* The importance of purpose, vulnerability, and community* How healing begins with honest conversationsLooking for mental health resources?We encourage you to explore Issue 36 of The Hope Factor magazine. Pages 24–25 feature a Mental Health Resource Guide with crisis support services, advocacy organizations, educational tools, and resources designed to support individuals and families affected by bleeding disorders and other chronic conditions.Access the issue and additional educational resources at:https://www.hopeforhemophilia.org/Additional resources include:• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 anytime for free, confidential 24/7 support.• Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor 24/7.• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – Offers mental health education, support groups, caregiver resources, and a nationwide HelpLine. Call 800-950-NAMI (6264) or text NAMI to 62640.This is more than a conversation about mental health.It’s a conversation about resilience, healing, and finding hope in the moments we share with one another. 🎧 Hit play, share with someone who may need this conversation, and don’t forget to follow. Every listen helps more people feel seen, supported, and less alone.Hope Charities is a national nonprofit focused on helping people living with rare and chronic illnesses thrive. Our programs specialize in helping people with genetic bleeding disorders and #hemophilia navigate the challenges of invisible disease by providing emotional, educational, and tangible support. To learn more about our programs, visit our website www.hope-charities.org.Support the show