Getting Candid with AJ Mass

In this third episode of Redeeming Disorder, Spencer and Laura sit down with AJ Mass, an ESPN fantasy sports writer and former Mets mascot. AJ speaks openly about his experience growing up with a mom who was institutionalized for her mental disorder. His story provides a snapshot of how mental disorder conversations have changed over the years, and how they can still improve today. Here are some of the topics we cover:

• What it feels like when a parental figure has a mental illness

• The repercussions of not talking about mental illness

• Genetically passed down mental illness vs. learned behaviors

• The freedom that comes with speaking honestly

Resources and links from this episode:

• Opening excerpt by Brianne McDonald, Thought Catalogue 2014

• Suicide Hotline

• Resources for kids with mentally ill parents

Check out AJ's books: Yes, It's Hot in Here & How Fantasy Sports Explain the World Watch AJ in the Errol Morris short film, Being Mr. Met