This Week on After The Bell
Navigating Anxiety and Building Resilience: Insights from David A. Robertson
Are you looking for ways to better understand mental health, especially anxiety? Do you want to learn how to foster resilience in yourself and others? In Episode 67 of After The Bell, the Stunt Brothers sit down in The Box for a deep conversation with renowned Canadian author and educator David A. Robertson. Roy and Martin explore the journey of mental wellness, the power of community, and the importance of storytelling in healing. David’s candid reflections and practical advice offer valuable lessons for educators, parents, students, and anyone seeking to live authentically and compassionately. David shows how storytelling can serve as a tool for understanding mental health, reveals how to develop a personal toolbox for managing anxiety, and stresses the importance of kindness and community in overcoming challenges. David’s insights remind us that while mental health struggles can feel overwhelming, they are also shared human experiences we can learn from and support each other through.
The Power of Stories in Understanding Mental Health
David Robertson’s work is widely celebrated for its ability to tackle complex issues like Indigenous identity, historical trauma, and mental health. His latest book, All the Little Monsters, takes a raw and honest look at anxiety, revealing how it often feels like tiny monsters whispering doubts and fears.
Why storytelling matters:
David emphasizes that sharing personal stories—whether through books, conversations, or therapy—can normalize mental health struggles and foster empathy. When he sat down with his therapist, she described anxiety as a little monster on his shoulder, constantly whispering lies. He explains that by personifying anxiety as a small entity, it becomes less amorphous and more manageable.
The metaphor of the monsters:
David describes his own internal dialogue, illustrating how these ‘monsters’ tell you you’re not good enough or that something terrible will happen. His strategy is to “starve” these monsters by facing fears gradually—exposing himself to what he fears and doing the things he believes he can’t. This approach, rooted in cognitive behavioral techniques, helps diminish their power.
Impact beyond personal experience:
David recounts the overwhelming response to All the Little Monsters, where many readers shared that the book broke the stigma around mental health and provided a safe space to acknowledge struggles. For many, simply knowing they aren’t alone is a crucial step toward healing.
Building Your Toolkit: Practical Strategies for Managing Anxiety
One of the most valuable parts of Davids insights is his emphasis on developing a personal “toolbox” to keep anxiety at bay. He shares several techniques that resonate universally: Breathing Deeply. Deep breathing is a cornerstone of managing panic attacks and anxiety. David describes how deliberately inhaling into the belly, making each breath slow and deliberate, can significantly calm racing thoughts and physical sensations. Mindful breathing helps reconnect your body and mind. Connecting with Nature and Community. David finds joy in being outdoors—near water, in the woods, or simply on land. Listening to water or feeling the earth beneath your feet can ground you. Additionally, talking to trusted friends or family offers immense relief. David highlights the importance of community, especially when feeling overwhelmed—sharing struggles reduces their weight and fosters support. Using Music. David mentions turning to music as a tool for emotional regulation. Songs and music can elevate mood and provide comfort. Creativity. Whether writing, drawing, or engaging in hobbies, which can serve as outlets and positive distraction, staying creative and engaged helps to manage internal monsters. Medication and Self-Care. David acknowledges that medication under the direction of a medical practitioner, supported by therapy and other methods, can be essential. Combining medical support with lifestyle adjustments amplifies resilience. Small Acts of Courage. David shares a powerful lesson: do things that scare you, like going on a plane or speaking publicly. This can gradually diminish fear. “Exposing” yourself, even in small steps, starves the monsters and restores control.
Cultivating Compassion and Community
A recurring theme in David’s discussion is the vital role of kindness—toward oneself and others. His message is simple yet profound.
Small acts of compassion can make a significant difference, especially in the age of social media and digital connection, which often fosters anxiety and disconnection. David emphasizes that community—physical, emotional, or virtual—is fundamental to mental health. He points out that social media can be a double-edged sword: it connects but also can amplify feelings of inadequacy or despair if misused. Striking a balance involves intentionality—limiting doomscrolling, engaging in land-based activities, and nurturing real-world relationships.
A Call for Kindness:
Whether in traffic, school, or everyday interactions, David urges us all to extend patience and understanding. A simple pause—walking away from anger or choosing empathy—can prevent spirals of stress and foster a more supportive society.
A Final Reflection from The Stunt Brothers
To wrap up, Roy shares a reading from David’s 2020 memoir Black Water, an insight into a meaningful practice rooted in mindfulness and self-compassion. Inspired by a notebook of David Robertson’s father:
- Just for today, I will not worry.
- Just for today, I will not be angry.
- Just for today, I will be grateful.
- Just for today, I will do my work honestly.
- Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing.
These simple statements underscore that managing mental health is an ongoing process—one that requires patience, kindness, and intentionality.
Your Turn to Take Action
Are you ready to implement these strategies? Start small: take mindful breaths, reach out to a friend, or spend time in nature. Recognize that everyone carries their own monsters, and compassion—toward yourself and others—is key. If you’re interested in fostering conversations about mental health, consider reading Robertson’s books or sharing his insights. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, and community is your greatest resource.
Final Thoughts
David Robertson’s profound honesty and practical advice inspire us to approach mental health with compassion, courage, and community. Whether you’re managing your own monsters or supporting someone else, his lessons remind us that resilience is built through shared stories, kindness, and the ongoing effort to understand ourselves and each other better. For more resources and to explore his work, visit David A. Robertson.
