Episode 33: The Many Faces Of Depression and Reclaiming Your Power With Dr Vivian O. Ikem

On this 33rd Instalment of The Unscathed Life podcast, I have a very revealing and much needed conversation with Dr Vivian O. Ikem (Dr Viv).  Dr Viv is a Certified Coach, a Consultant, Speaker and the author of  the  book “Shadows in the Mirror – The Many Faces of Depression” . Her passion  is helping the world become more empathetic, wellbeing and growth aware, so they can thrive whilst being successful. 

On today’s show, Dr Viv and I are discussing the subject of depression. What it is, how it often manifests and what we can do to become more aware so that we can jointly deconstruct the many negative associated socio-cultural nuances. 

Dr Viv shares her personal story of overcoming depression and gives valuable insights that will help broaden perspectives for anyone who is currently struggling or anyone who needs to be a source of strength for others. 

The overarching message on this episode is to encourage anyone struggling with depression, who is perhaps too afraid to seek help, to realise that you have so much more on the inside of you, and the power is in your hands, to get the help you need so that you can heal and be all that you were created to be. 

Some key highlights of the episode;

• “Just one word can be the difference between life and death” (3:08)
• “It's okay to not be perfect all the time” (4:20)
• Dr Viv. discusses her book, Shadows in the Mirror, The Many Faces of Depression (7:19)
• What it means to lose yourself (7:45)
• Signs of depression (13:51)
• Tips for navigating your way out of depression (15:31)
• The importance of having a strong support system (22:00)
• “Show up as you are, you don't need to be packaged all the time” (30:00)
• Dealing with stigmatisation surrounding (35:08)

She is a Chemical Engineer by background (with a PhD), multiple award winning researcher and ex-management consultant with a top UK based Consulting firm.

She is an NLP certified life coach, John Maxwell Team Leadership Coach, Speaker and Teacher, and podcast host of Reset with Dr Viv; a podcast with a focus on self-rediscovery, mental health, Leadership and  Personal Growth. She is also a contributing Author of the book “Unzenable – A Guide to Stress Less and be More” and she believes it is important for individuals, leaders, organisations and communities  to be balanced, mental health aware and compassionate to self and others whilst being successful. She is also a singer and worship leader who loves God and shares his message of hope to those broken and in pain. 

You can find Dr Viv  here: 
Instagram: @vivian_ikem 
Website : www.vivianikem.com