Mental Health Champions: Why & How Jonathan Niziol Is Helping To Champion Mental Wellness
An Interview With Michelle Tennant Nicholson
Setting challenges for myself:
While it might appear counterintuitive to deliberately expose oneself to situations that could heighten anxiety, I am firm in the belief that setting challenges — be they professional, personal, or social — is pivotal for personal growth and resilience. In my own experience, confronting and overcoming challenges has not only contributed to my development but has also boosted my self-esteem and resilience, fostering a positive mental state. “Life happens outside of your comfort zone”
As a part of our series about Mental Health Champions helping to promote mental wellness, I had the pleasure to interview Jonathan Niziol.
Fueled by a profound desire to help others, Jonathan Niziol fervently opens up about his struggles, encompassing drug addiction, alcoholism, eating disorders, and mental health challenges, all stemming from the loss of his mother a day before his 21st birthday. Armed with resilience, persistence, and self-belief, his narrative stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing the ability to triumph over formidable odds.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?
I am a native of Ontario Canada, born in April 1982, and spent my early years on a farm in the area of Peterborough which served as my playground. It was here where I developed my hockey prowess, proudly representing in competitions across Ontario. My love for lacrosse grew during my childhood, playing dedicatedly for the major series lacrosse and the esteemed Brooklin Lacrosse Club, growing up on a farm taught me valuable lessons about hard work, discipline, and freedom making it a fantastic environment to grow up in.
You are currently leading an initiative that is helping to promote mental wellness. Can you tell us a bit more specifically about what you are trying to address?
Absolutely. My goal is to eradicate the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. Society often expects us to embody toughness and resilience, making it difficult to openly discuss our mental well-being. I’m standing up against these stereotypes, establishing a space where we can freely express emotions, recognize struggles, and seek support. I’m dedicated to cultivating a culture that values vulnerability and prioritizes mental well-being.
Recognizing the societal pressures to conform to traditional masculinity, I am committed to redefining it. I aim to demonstrate that seeking help is a sign of strength, actively dismantling barriers that hinder us from addressing mental health concerns. Through challenging stereotypes and building support networks, I am determined to instigate a positive shift in attitudes toward men’s mental wellness, empowering each of us to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Can you tell us the backstory about what inspired you to originally feel passionate about this cause?
My advocacy for this cause is intimately tied to my journey of overcoming drug addiction, alcoholism, an eating disorder, and mental health challenges — experiences heightened by the tragic loss of my mother the day before my 21st birthday, a sexual assault as an adult whilst on a modeling casting and the loss of three of my best friends one to suicide, one to a car accident and the other to an undiagnosed heart condition. These struggles provided me with a profound understanding of their impact on individuals.
My battles became a catalyst for change. Encountering the isolating effects of stigma and the challenges in finding support inspired me to transform my experiences into a mission to assist others facing similar challenges as well as unburden myself of years of secrets and contribute towards my growth and healing. v
My passion for this cause arises from the belief that everyone deserves empathy, understanding, and accessible resources to break free from the chains of addiction and mental health struggles. I am compelled by the conviction that sharing my story and providing assistance can serve as a lifeline for those navigating similar battles. The resilience I discovered within myself propels me to empower others on their journey to recovery and mental well-being. This cause resonates deeply with me, embodying the transformative journey that becomes possible with the right support and resources.
Many of us have ideas, dreams, and passions, but never manifest them. They don’t get up and just do it. But you did. Was there an “Aha Moment” that made you decide that you were going to step up and do it? What was that final trigger?
My “Aha Moment” occurred when I grasped the disparity between having dreams and taking concrete steps to actualize them. Recognizing that time doesn’t wait, I felt an urgent need to proactively pursue my aspirations. As my dad would say: “There’s never going to be a perfect time, so just get started.” The final trigger was the way I was living my life wasn’t working and understanding that waiting indefinitely wasn’t an option, I embraced action, overcoming hesitation. I made a conscious decision to step up, acknowledging the finite nature of time and committing to turning my ideas into reality. This newfound clarity became my driving force, propelling me to take intentional steps toward realizing my dreams.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
Ever since I started opening up about my journey, I’ve come to realize that sharing my story is far from easy. It began with unveiling my secrets and narratives on social media, where vulnerability to criticism and judgment was inevitable, to my first virtual podcast which then extended to my inaugural in-person podcast. Each new milestone commences with a degree of unease but concludes with a profound sense of fulfillment.
Recognizing that the process isn’t always a joyride means stepping out of my comfort zone, persisting on days when motivation takes a back seat, and embracing discomfort. It’s a challenging path that requires overcoming my hesitations. However, if I want to bring about change in my circumstances, that’s exactly what it takes. The power to transform my life is in my hands, and I can achieve anything.
None of us can be successful without some help along the way. Did you have mentors or cheerleaders who helped you to succeed? Can you tell us a story about their influence?
When I was younger my parents played a crucial role in shaping my journey, offering invaluable guidance and wisdom that has been pivotal to my success. They instilled in me the morals and values of resilience, taking initiative, being persistent, and putting in the work. As an adult, my dad’s actions serve as a living testament to the principles he embedded in me and are a source of inspiration for how I want to live my own life.
According to a Mental Health America report, over 44 million Americans have a mental health condition. Yet there’s still a stigma about mental illness. Can you share a few reasons you think this is so?
Absolutely! The stigma surrounding mental illness persists in my opinion for several reasons;
First, misconceptions and lack of understanding about mental health contribute to the stigma. Mental health conditions are often misunderstood, leading to unfounded fears and prejudices.
Second, societal norms and stereotypes play a significant role. There’s a prevailing notion that individuals with mental health conditions are somehow different or dangerous, perpetuating negative attitudes. This fear of being labeled or treated differently discourages open discussions and disclosure.
Third, historical and cultural factors contribute to the stigma. Mental health has long been stigmatized, and changing deep-seated beliefs takes time. Cultural attitudes that associate mental health issues with weakness or personal failure further fuel the stigma.
Lastly, the lack of visibility and representation in mainstream media can reinforce stereotypes. When mental health is portrayed inaccurately or sensationalist, it perpetuates harmful perceptions, hindering progress in destigmatizing these conditions.
Addressing the stigma requires education, open conversations, and challenging these misconceptions to create a more empathetic and understanding society.
In your experience, what should a) individuals b) society, and c) the government do to better support people suffering from mental illness?
a) Individuals:
- Prioritise self-awareness: Understand and recognize your own mental health needs.
- Seek help without hesitation: Don’t be afraid to reach out to mental health professionals or confide in friends and family.
- Foster open communication: Encourage honest conversations about mental health, reducing the stigma.
b) Society:
- Promote education: Increase awareness about mental health to dispel myths and foster understanding.
- Create a supportive culture: Develop workplaces, schools, and communities that prioritize mental well-being.
- Encourage empathy: Foster an environment where people feel safe expressing their struggles without fear of judgment.
c) Government:
- Allocate resources: Invest in mental health programs, facilities, and services to ensure accessibility for all.
- Reform healthcare policies: Ensure that mental health coverage is comprehensive and on par with physical health coverage.
- Implement anti-stigma campaigns: Launch initiatives to challenge societal perceptions and stereotypes surrounding mental health.
Collectively, these efforts from individuals, society, and the government I believe can contribute to a more compassionate, understanding, and supportive environment for those suffering from mental illness.
What are the 5 strategies you use to promote your own well-being and mental wellness? Can you please give a story or example for each?
Regular Exercise:
I prioritize regular exercise as a cornerstone of my mental wellness. Not only as a means to improve my physical health but I found establishing a daily gym routine instills discipline and helps create a sense of structure in daily life. Consistency in exercise fosters a positive habit that extends beyond the gym. Additionally, I play ice hockey 4 times a week which being a team sport adds a social component. The camaraderie with teammates, the thrill of competition, and the focus required during the game contribute to alleviating my anxiety, and stress and promote a sense of well-being — A dedicated time to focus and the time when I am most present in myself.
Social Connection:
Having faced severe anxiety and clinical depression I once avoided social interactions during challenging times, I recognize the significance of establishing and nurturing meaningful relationships with friends, family, or a community. These connections serve as vital sources of emotional support and a feeling of belonging. They play a crucial role in building a robust support system that can effectively counteract the adverse impacts of stress.
Mindfulness:
While I acknowledge that the term has gained popularity in contemporary society and can carry diverse meanings, from my standpoint, mindfulness entails heightened self-awareness. It involves recognizing challenging moments and taking the time to be present, grounding oneself internally and in the surroundings. Reverting to a negative mindset is a common pitfall, but actively cultivating emotional resilience by establishing personal boundaries, practicing acceptance, embracing imperfections, and striving for balance in life has profoundly benefited my mental health.
Setting challenges for myself:
While it might appear counterintuitive to deliberately expose oneself to situations that could heighten anxiety, I am firm in the belief that setting challenges — be they professional, personal, or social — is pivotal for personal growth and resilience. In my own experience, confronting and overcoming challenges has not only contributed to my development but has also boosted my self-esteem and resilience, fostering a positive mental state. “Life happens outside of your comfort zone”
Organization and setting a routine:
For me, maintaining organization and establishing a routine is indispensable in managing my anxiety. It provides a crucial sense of predictability and stability, creating a calming effect and instilling a feeling of control over my environment. Having a routine brings structure and order to my days, preventing the potential for feeling overwhelmed. In terms of organization, I meticulously input every appointment, hockey game, and commitment into my calendar, aiding in keeping track of my schedule, managing expectations, and reducing feelings of uncertainty. This systematic approach allows me to prioritize tasks and goals, fostering improved focus and mental clarity.
What are your favorite books, podcasts, or resources that inspire you to be a mental health champion?
One of my favorite books is “How to Win Friends and Influence People.” It serves as a guide on how to be a good person, emphasizing simple yet impactful principles like thinking of others and not just yourself. I believe society would greatly benefit if everyone took the time to read this book and incorporate its messages and practices into their lives.
If you could tell other people one thing about why they should consider making a positive impact on our environment or society, like you, what would you tell them?
If I could convey one pivotal insight to others about fostering a positive impact on our environment or society, it would be this: every small effort holds significance, and collective actions bring about meaningful change. Frequently, individuals may perceive their contributions as inconsequential in the face of substantial challenges. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to acknowledge that positive impacts arise from the combined effect of numerous individual choices and actions.
Furthermore, positive actions exhibit a ripple effect. When an individual opts for compassion or social responsibility, it serves as inspiration for others to follow suit. This cultivates a culture of empathy, responsibility, and a shared commitment to constructing a healthier, more compassionate, and enjoyable environment.
So, my message is straightforward: your actions carry weight, contributing to a broader narrative of positive change. Embrace the belief that collective efforts wield substantial influence, and by making conscious choices, you play an integral role in the solution we all aspire to achieve
How can our readers follow you online?
Website — https://www.jonathanniziolofficial.com/
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/jonathanniziol/
TikTok — https://www.tiktok.com/@jonathanniziol
Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094469487456
Komi (Includes socials, youtube, email) — https://jonathanniziol.komi.io/
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
About the Interviewer: Inspired by the father of PR, Edward Bernays (who was also Sigmund Freud’s nephew), Michelle Tennant Nicholson researches marketing, mental injury, and what it takes for optimal human development. An award-winning writer and publicist, she’s seen PR transition from typewriters to Twitter. Michelle co-founded WasabiPublicity.com
