#82 Access The Key to Mental Health: Reshaping Reality & The Art of Perspective, with Ricardo Zulueta

In this insightful interview with Ricardo Zulueta, he shares his journey into the mental health space and the core principles of his organization, Start Day One. The conversation between Ricardo and the host, Ken, touches on various aspects of mental health and personal development. Ricardo's journey into the mental health field was marked by a personal tragedy, the loss of his brother to suicide. He discusses how this tragedy led him to explore the complex factors that drive people to commit suicide and experience mental health challenges. He emphasizes the importance of understanding that depression, anxiety, and happiness are emotional responses tied to our perspectives rather than our circumstances. Ricardo's organization, Start Day One, is a nonprofit focused on mental health and suicide prevention. It takes a proactive approach, encouraging individuals to shift their perspectives from waiting for "one day" to starting on "day one." The idea is to inspire people to make decisions that lead to better mental health and overall well-being. He highlights the importance of proactive measures in mental health, drawing parallels to dental care and diabetes prevention. Just as one must actively take steps to prevent dental issues or maintain a healthy diet to prevent diabetes, individuals should proactively make decisions that promote good mental health. Ricardo challenges the notion that mental health problems are solely the result of chemical imbalances. He asserts that it's essential to address the root causes of these issues, which often stem from a negative perspective. By changing one's perspective, making decisions, and being accountable, individuals can work towards solutions to their problems. Ken and Ricardo discuss the idea that many physical health problems are intertwined with mental health issues. Stress, for example, can lead to heart attacks and other health challenges. Ricardo stresses the importance of understanding the link between mental and physical health. The conversation delves into the concept of purpose and how it can positively impact mental health. Ricardo emphasizes the idea that a strong purpose benefits not only the individual but also other people. He encourages people to create their purpose and define it as a verb, such as inspiring, empowering, or helping others. Purpose serves as a driving force for motivation and a foundation for building a fulfilling life. Ricardo also addresses the necessity of adversity and challenges in life. He likens life's challenges to levels in a video game, where the difficulty increases as you progress. These challenges create the story of your life, making it more engaging and meaningful. He underscores the importance of changing one's perspective on adversity and viewing it as an essential part of personal growth. In summary, Ricardo Zulueta's interview sheds light on the critical role of perspective and purpose in mental health and personal development. He advocates for a proactive approach to mental health, challenging traditional views on mental illness and emphasizing the significance of individual choices and a strong sense of purpose in shaping a fulfilling life.