In this episode of The Mental Breakdown, Autumn dives into PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) — a severe hormone-related mood disorder that affects up to 1 in 20 people who menstruate.

We’re unpacking how PMDD goes far beyond PMS, how it’s misunderstood and misdiagnosed (especially in Black and Brown communities), and how it impacts those juggling parenting, identity, and mental health.

Autumn also shares her lived experience with PMDD and offers a grounding practice to bring more compassion and awareness to your cycle.

What You’ll Learn:

 * What PMDD actually is and how it differs from PMS
 * Common emotional and physical symptoms of PMDD
 * How PMDD is diagnosed (and why so many get misdiagnosed)
 * The impact of PMDD on moms, identity, and self-worth
 * Treatment options and supportive tools
 * A grounding practice to bring calm and connection to your body
   
   Resources & References:
 * IAPMD (International Association for Premenstrual Disorders): https://www.iapmd.org [https://www.iapmd.org/]
 * PMDD Diagnosis Guide: https://iapmd.org/diagnosis
 * PMDD Treatment Info: https://iapmd.org/treatment-guidelines 
 * Me v PMDD symptom tracking app: https://mevpmdd.com [https://mevpmdd.com/]

This episode is for educational purposes only. Please consult a licensed mental health or medical provider for diagnosis and care.

The Mental Breakdown: More Than Hormones: Understanding PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder)

Welcome to this episode of The Mental Breakdown, a short and intentional weekly mental health space by Sol Well, designed to raise awareness, spark reflection, and offer practical support—one topic at a time.

This week, we’re breaking down Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) — a clinical diagnosis that’s often misunderstood, misused, or masked by shame and silence, especially in Black and Brown communities and among mothers.

We unpack:

 * What MDD really is, and how it differs from temporary sadness or “feeling down.”
 * The core symptoms and criteria used for diagnosis — including emotional, physical, and cognitive impacts.
 * How MDD shows up in the lives of moms, especially those navigating pressure to appear strong or “hold it all together.”
 * The barriers and disparities faced by Black and Brown women in getting properly screened, diagnosed, and treated.
 * The harm of toxic positivity and why gratitude isn’t a cure for depression.
 * Culturally responsive treatment options and support approaches that can help.
 * An intentional “Mood Check-In” grounding practice and an affirmation to close out the episode.

Whether you’re silently navigating depression, suspect you or a loved one may be living with MDD, or simply want to better understand this condition — this episode offers a grounded, validating, and practical breakdown of a very real experience.

Mentioned Stats & Resources:

 * American Psychiatric Association: Racial disparities in diagnosis and care
 * National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – MDD overview: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression
 * Mental Health America (MHA): https://mhanational.org/conditions/depression
 * Therapy for Black Girls – Therapist directory and mental health support: https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com [https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com/]
 * Postpartum Support International (PSI) – Resources for maternal mental health: https://www.postpartum.net [https://www.postpartum.net/]

Connect + Support
If this episode resonated with you or someone you love, share it, DM Autumn, or join our village at Sol Well. It take a village to raise a mother🩺

Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please speak with a licensed provider for support tailored to you.

The Mental Breakdown: More Than Sad - The Truth About Major Depressive Disorder

Welcome to this episode of The Mental Breakdown, a short and intentional weekly mental health space by Sol Well, designed to raise awareness, spark reflection, and offer practical support—one topic at a time.

This week, we’re diving into Bipolar Disorder — a mood disorder that’s so often reduced to stereotypes and confusion, but is so much more than just "mood swings."

💬 We unpack:

 * What Bipolar Disorder is, its core features beyond simple mood changes, and its historical name (manic depression).
 * The different types of mood episodes
 * An overview of the main types of Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Cyclothymic Disorder.
 * Common signs and symptoms associated with both manic/hypomanic and depressive phases.
 * A look at  treatment options, including medications, psychotherapy (like CBT and IPSRT), psychoeducation, lifestyle management, and support systems.
 * The specific impacts and disparities of Bipolar Disorder within Black/Brown communities, including challenges with diagnosis, stigma, systemic factors, and access to care.

Whether you’re navigating Bipolar Disorder yourself, supporting someone who is, or simply want to learn more, this episode offers an informative breakdown to deepen your understanding.

Mentioned Resources & Citations:

 * National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - Bipolar Disorder: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder
 * Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA): https://www.dbsalliance.org [https://www.dbsalliance.org/]
 * Mental Health America (MHA) - Bipolar Disorder: https://mhanational.org/conditions/bipolar-disorder
 * Mayo Clinic - Bipolar Disorder: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bipolar-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355955

Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. For diagnosis, treatment, or mental health support, please consult a licensed mental health or primary care provider.

The Mental Breakdown: Bipolar - More than Mood Swings

Welcome to the premiere episode of The Mental Break Down, a 5 minute weekly mental health mini-series by Sol Well, designed to raise awareness, spark reflection, and offer practical support—one topic at a time.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, this week we’re diving into Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) — a lesser-known but deeply impactful diagnosis that can shape how we feel about ourselves, relate to others, and navigate the world.

💬 We unpack:

 * What C-PTSD is and how it differs from PTSD
 * Signs and symptoms like emotional flashbacks and relationship struggles
 * How trauma-informed care and proper diagnosis make a difference
 * A grounding tool to support emotional regulation: The Safe Place Visualization

Whether you’re navigating trauma or supporting someone who is, this episode offers a gentle but informative breakdown to deepen your understanding.

Mentioned Resources & Citations

 * VA National Center for PTSD: ptsd.va.gov [https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/what/complex_ptsd.asp]
 * NYU Scholars on C-PTSD: nyuscholars.nyu.edu [https://nyuscholars.nyu.edu/en/publications/complex-post-traumatic-stress-disorder]

Disclaimer

This episode is for educational purposes only. For diagnosis, treatment, or mental health support, please consult a licensed mental health or primary care provider.

The Mental Break Down: More Than Just Trauma: Understanding C-PTSD

Join us on the Sol Well Podcast for a powerful conversation with Precious K. Williams, a mom coach and motivational wellness speaker. Discover how her experiences—from growing up in a blended family to becoming an instant mom—shaped her mission to help other mothers L.I.F.T. themselves first. Learn about the importance of holistic wellness, the power of community, and why it's crucial for moms to "take their turn". Precious gets real about the challenges of motherhood, overcoming burnout, and finding purpose in the struggle.

In this Episode,

 * Her unique motherhood journey: Growing up in Chicago with Ghanaian roots, being part of a blended family, and becoming a bonus mom.
 * Generational Health: Understanding the different areas of health beyond just the physical (mental, spiritual, social, etc.) and choosing not to inherit unhealthy patterns or burnout seen in previous generations.
 * Moms on a Mission Wellness: The story behind her platform and the L.I.F.T. framework (Lighten load, Ignite spark, Freedom mindset, Take your turn) designed to help moms prioritize holistic well-being.
 * Addressing Burnout: Recognizing the signs, getting real about the struggles (like wanting to drive away!), and finding purpose through those challenges.
 * Faith & Wellness: Integrating spiritual health with physical and mental well-being, and the importance of being honest about struggles even within a faith context.

This episode is for you if:

 * You feel overwhelmed, stressed, or burnt out in motherhood.
 * You recognize unhealthy patterns passed down through generations and want to create a different legacy for your family.
 * You struggle to prioritize your own health and well-being amidst family responsibilities.
 * You're looking for a holistic approach to wellness that includes mental, spiritual, and emotional health, not just physical.

Guest Bio:

Precious K. Williams is a mom coach and motivational wellness speaker based in metropolitan Atlanta, GA. She is also the founder of "Simply Passionate Life" (SPL) and CEO of MomsonAMissionWellness, a lifestyle brand and wellness platform for moms on a mission to build generational health. Precious educates moms on how to L.I.F.T themselves first to create a ripple effect in the health of their families!

Her mission is to train moms on how to LIGHTEN their load, IGNITE their spark, and embrace a FREEDOM mindset, so they can finally TAKE their turn in their own lives and build generational health. Precious earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science at Howard University and a Master’s Degree in Counseling at Georgia State University. Before becoming a mother she lost 75 lbs to transform her life and health. As a result, she is extremely passionate about education and holistic health promotion. With her  experience as a loving mom of three and faithful wife of one, Precious coaches her clients and audience that generational health starts with you, "You can’t afford to put off your health another day; it’s mom’s turn!"

Connect with Precious

Instagram:www.instagram.com/preciouskwilliams [http://www.instagram.com/preciouskwilliams]
Website: www.preciouskwilliams.com/home [http://www.preciouskwilliams.com/home]

 Empowering Moms to Prioritize Their Health for Generational Impact with Precious K Williams 

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Alishia Anderson, author and advocate, to have a crucial conversation about life, grief, and motherhood after experiencing baby loss. Alishia shares her personal journey through the stillbirth of her son, DJ, and offers powerful insights into navigating the often-unspoken complexities of loss, healing, and finding joy again. She speaks candidly about breaking the silence, addressing racial disparities in loss experiences, and honoring the babies who are "still here" in memory.

What You'll Learn:

 * Alishia's personal story of experiencing stillbirth at 28 weeks and navigating the immediate aftermath.
 * The emotional and mental impact of baby loss on individuals and couples.
 * Understanding different types of baby loss (stillbirth, miscarriage) and the validity of all grief.
 * The reasons why baby loss is often shrouded in silence, secrecy, and shame.
 * The importance of acknowledging and breaking the silence surrounding baby loss, especially within the Black community.
 * Insights into the racial disparities faced by Black women regarding stillbirth rates and support.
 * Common feelings associated with grief after loss (guilt, anger, sadness, conflicting joy).
 * The unique challenges and anxieties of pregnancy after experiencing loss.
 * The significance of finding community and shared experiences in the healing process.
 * Ways to honor and remember babies lost too soon.
 * The inspiration behind Alishia's memoir, "Still Here."

This episode is for you if:

 * You have experienced the loss of a baby (stillbirth, miscarriage, or other forms of loss).
 * You are supporting someone who is grieving the loss of a baby.
 * You are navigating pregnancy after a previous loss.
 * You feel isolated in your grief journey.
 * You want to understand the complex emotions surrounding baby loss.
 * You are seeking validation for your experience and feelings.
 * You want to learn how to better support those affected by baby loss.
 * You are interested in breaking the silence and stigma around this topic.

Guest Bio:

Alishia Anderson is a Life Transition and Grief Support Coach who helps angel moms honor their angel babies while embracing their unique motherhood journeys. She partners with those experiencing grief and life transitions to move from existing to thriving.

Through online advocacy, [BIPOC] support groups, and her memoir Still Here, Alishia has supported countless families through baby loss. Her mission is to end the silence, secrecy, and shame around grief, fostering open dialogue and healing.

Connect with Alicia

 * Instagram : @AliAndeEnterprise [https://www.instagram.com/aliandeenterprise/]
 * Book: Still Here: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Triumph After Stillbirth [https://www.amazon.com/Still-Here-Memoir-Triumph-Stillbirth/dp/1732582505]
 * Email: aliandeenterprise@gmail.com

Life after [baby] loss A conversation with Alishia Anderson

In this episode of the Sol Well Podcast, we’re diving into the power of setting boundaries—not just with others, but with ourselves as moms. We explore how to recognize when boundaries are needed, how to release relationships or commitments that no longer serve us, and practical ways to protect our energy and well-being.

What You’ll Learn:
✔️ How to identify when a boundary needs to be set
✔️ The importance of saying goodbye to things that no longer align with your well-being
✔️ How to set personal boundaries as a mom to prevent burnout
✔️ Practical strategies for maintaining boundaries in daily life

Key Takeaways:
💡 Set Time Limits – Give yourself permission to take breaks and recharge
💡 Say No to Mom Guilt – Your well-being matters just as much as your family’s
💡 Create a Daily Non-Negotiable – Prioritize at least one self-care habit each day
💡 Limit Overcommitment – Protect your peace over pleasing others

Resources Mentioned:
📚 Set Boundaries, Find Peace – Nedra Glover Tawwab
📚 Good Boundaries and Goodbyes: Loving Others Without Losing the Best of Who You Are  – Lysa TerKeurst

Let’s Connect:
✨ Follow Sol Well on Instagram: @solwell_ [http://instagram.com/solwell_]
✨ Join The Mom Space [https://themomspace.mn.co/collections/2369816] for support and community
✨ Share this episode with someone who needs it!

Join the Conversation:
Share your plans to rest and tag @SolWell on Instagram! Let’s support each other in achieving our goals and creating a meaningful year. Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Email us at podcast@solwell.co

Subscribe & Review:
If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us grow and reach more listeners who want to live with intention and harmony.

Good Boundaries and Goodbyes: Setting Boundaries for a Healthier You

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Yenory Pouncil, a fourth-generation Garifuna High Priestess, lightworker, and icon, to explore the vital connection between self-love and self-trust, especially for Black moms. Yenory shares her wisdom and insights on navigating the unique challenges of motherhood, entrepreneurship, and cultural expectations, offering practical strategies for cultivating presence, embracing generational gifts, and letting go of what no longer serves.

What You'll Learn:

 * The crucial role of self-love in building unshakeable self-trust.
 * How to identify and harness the power of your generational gifts.
 * Understanding the specific challenges faced by Black mompreneurs in today's world.
 * Practical steps for cultivating self-compassion and acceptance.
 * Strategies for achieving presence and managing the often overwhelming "invisible load."
 * The transformative power of meditation and mindfulness practices.
 * Techniques for finding joy and beauty in everyday moments, even amidst chaos.
 * How to reframe challenging situations and discover the lessons within.
 * The intimate link between self-care, confidence, and empowered decision-making.
 * Letting go of limiting beliefs and embracing your authentic self.

This episode is for you if:

 * You're a Black mompreneur seeking community, support, and practical advice.
 * You're ready to deepen your understanding of culturally relevant self-care practices.
 * You're struggling with self-trust, self-doubt, or feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life.
 * You're looking for actionable strategies to cultivate presence, joy, and peace in your daily life.
 * You're interested in exploring the power of generational gifts and ancestral wisdom.

About Yenory Pouncil:

Yenory Pouncil is a 4th Generation Garifuna Spiritual Guide and self-trust catalyst for ICONIC Leaders. Recognized by Pinterest as a top global tastemaker, she's a leading expert in Spiritual Mastery and Intuitive Insight. Yenory co-founded The Self-Trust Company, reaching over 40,000 people monthly. Known as the Coaches' Coach, she masterfully guides clients to break through emotional barriers, unlocking expansive personal and business success. Beyond her spiritual work, Yenory is a devoted Dragon Ball fan, finds solace in the ritual of tea, and expresses herself through the art of pole dancing.

Connect with Yenory:

 * s: Subscribe to my Youtube Channel [https://mailtrack.io/l/f99cafb042af7e346f0287fae781057a2788dea4?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2F%40yenorypouncil%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1&u=3157466&signature=6e2256dbe8ce9984]
 * e: yenory@yenorypouncil.com
 * w: yenorypouncil.com [https://mailtrack.io/l/4f24e612a47f306f5ea50240b394347b77606a13?url=https%3A%2F%2Fyenorypouncil.com%2F&u=3157466&signature=3f9cc06e056c2985]
 * Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-yenory-pouncil-podcast/id1366398787

Let That Ish Go: Cultivating Self-Love and Self-Trust - A Conversation with Yenory Pouncil

Welcome to this week’s episode of The Sol Well Podcast! Today, we’re exploring a concept that’s often overlooked but profoundly essential: the power of rest and recovery in fueling personal growth.

In this episode, I unpack why slowing down doesn’t mean giving up and how prioritizing rest can actually accelerate your progress toward your goals. We’ll discuss:

 * The hidden costs of grind culture and why rest is a revolutionary act.
 * How rest supports emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
 * Actionable ways to incorporate recovery into your daily routine, even with a busy schedule.

I also share some incredible resources to help you deepen your rest practice, including:

 * Rest Is Sacred: Reclaiming Our Brilliance through the Practice of Stillness.
 * Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia Hersey.
 * The Nap Ministry’s Rest Deck: 50 Practices to Resist Grind Culture.

If you’ve been feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or stuck in the endless cycle of “doing,” this episode is your reminder to pause, recharge, and give yourself permission to rest.

Actionable Takeaways:

 * Embrace rest as a form of self-care and self-respect.
 * Schedule intentional pauses throughout your day.
 * Reflect on how your body and mind respond when you give yourself space to recover.

Connect with Autumn:

 * Instagram: @solwell_ [http://instagram.com/solwell_]
 * Website: www.solwell.co [http://www.solwell.co/]
 * Join the Sol Well Community at https://themomspace.mn.co/collections/2369816  [https://themomspace.mn.co/collections/2369816]

Join the Conversation:
Share your plans to rest and tag @SolWell on Instagram! Let’s support each other in achieving our goals and creating a meaningful year. Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Email us at podcast@solwell.co

Subscribe & Review:
If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us grow and reach more listeners who want to live with intention and harmony.

What’s Next?
Get ready for next week’s episode, where I’ll be joined by wellness advocate Yenory Pouncil for an inspiring conversation on Cultivating Self-Love and Self-Trust. You won’t want to miss it!

The Power of Intentional Rest with Autumn Colon

Episode Summary:
In this empowering episode of The Sol Well Podcast, Autumn Colon guides you through the process of setting a clear and intentional vision for the new year. But we’re not stopping at creating a vision board! Autumn shares actionable strategies to turn your dreams into achievable goals. If you’re ready to make 2025 your most aligned and productive year yet, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

 * The importance of having a clear vision and how it influences your goals.
 * How to create a meaningful and intentional vision board that resonates with your goals and emotions.
 * Steps to build a practical action plan to achieve your goals.
 * Tips for staying aligned with your vision throughout the year.
 * Practices to celebrate milestones and stay motivated.

Key Takeaways:

 * Vision boards are more than collages—they’re visual reminders of the energy and goals you want to attract into your life.
 * Breaking down big goals into small, actionable steps is the key to progress.
 * Checking in with your vision weekly helps you stay aligned and adjust as needed.
 * Celebrating small wins keeps you motivated and focused on the journey.

Call to Action:
After listening to this episode:

 1. Take 30 minutes to reflect on how you want to feel this year.
 2. Create a vision board that truly resonates with your aspirations.
 3. Write down at least three actionable steps for one of your goals and set deadlines to get started!

Connect with Autumn:

 * Instagram: @solwell_
 * Website: www.solwell.co
 * Join the Sol Well Community https://themomspace.mn.co/collections/2369816 

Join the Conversation:
Share your vision board or action plan and tag SolWell on Instagram! Let’s support each other in achieving our goals and creating a meaningful year. Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Email us at podcast@solwell.co

Subscribe & Review:
If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us grow and reach more listeners who want to live with intention and harmony.

Next Episode Teaser:
In the next episode, we’ll dive into the art of rest and recovery—how slowing down can be the key to speeding up your growth. Don’t miss it!

From Dreams to Done Crafting Your Vision and Action Plan for the New Year

The Sol Well Podcast: Maternal Mental Health Connections and Conversations is dedicated to sharing stories, uplifting moms, and expanding the consciousness around maternal mental health for women of color.

Hosted by Sol Well Founder and CEO, Mental Health Advocate, and Community Leader Autumn Colon, each week we delve into themes, topics, and stories around mental health, health, recovery, and wellness.   

The Sol Well Podcast

Shows