The Mel Robbins Podcast – Yes, You Can Make a Difference: This Remarkable Story Will Inspire You to Do Something Big

Intro

In this episode of “The Mel Robbins Podcast,” Lorenzo Lewis, the founder of the Confess Project, shares his remarkable story of turning his life around and making a difference. He noticed a major disconnect between mental health professionals and patients in hospitals, particularly in the black community. Inspired to bridge this gap, Lorenzo founded the Confess Project, which trains barbers and beauticians to be mental health advocates for their clients.

Main Takeaways

Addressing Mental Health Disparities

• Lorenzo Lewis turned his life around despite being born in jail and losing his father at a young age
• Noticed a major disconnect between mental health professionals and patients in hospitals
• 4% of therapists and licensed mental health professionals are black, creating a gap in representation
• Confess Project aims to reduce stigma surrounding mental health and improve quality of life for all people

The Power of Barbershops and Beauty Salons

• Lorenzo founded the Confess Project, which trains barbers and beauticians to be mental health advocates for their clients
• Confess Project has trained over 3,000 barbers and beauticians, reaching over 3 million people a year
• Black-owned barbershops and beauty shops have historically been a gathering place for the black community and played a role in civil rights organizing
• Barbershops are a hub for lifestyle, where people can see the same stylist or barber for years and gather with people from all walks of life

Challenges and Impact of the Confess Project

• The Confess Project provides access to mental health services and support to communities where there is not a lot of access
• Training barbers and beauticians to be mental health advocates can reach millions of people every year
• Confess Project fills a gap in mental health support and is appreciated and needed in many communities
• Confess Project aims to expand its mental health support model to impact all walks of life across the world

Summary

Addressing Mental Health Disparities

Lorenzo Lewis, the founder of the Confess Project, overcame a challenging upbringing to make a difference in the mental health field. Recognizing the disconnect between mental health professionals and patients, particularly in the black community, Lorenzo founded the Confess Project to reduce stigma and improve quality of life for all people. The lack of representation in the mental health field, with only 4% of therapists being black, creates a significant gap in access and understanding. By addressing these disparities, the Confess Project aims to empower individuals to seek help without shame or judgment.

The Power of Barbershops and Beauty Salons

Barbershops and beauty salons have historically been important gathering places for the black community, providing not only hair care but also a sense of family and community. Lorenzo recognized the potential of these spaces to address mental health challenges and empower individuals. Through the Confess Project, barbers and beauticians are trained to be mental health advocates, providing support, active listening, and stigma reduction to their clients. This approach has reached millions of people, creating a safe and trusted environment for individuals to open up about their struggles.

Challenges and Impact of the Confess Project

The Confess Project faced initial challenges due to the stigma surrounding mental health. However, with the support of corporations and influential people, it gained momentum and expanded its reach. The project has trained over 3,000 barbers and beauticians, reaching over 3 million people annually. The impact has been significant, with stories of barbers and beauticians saving clients from suicide and building stronger relationships. The Confess Project fills a gap in mental health support, particularly in communities where access is limited. With a virtual training product and a goal to reach more people globally, the Confess Project continues to make a difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges.

Conclusion

Lorenzo Lewis’s inspiring journey from personal struggles to founding the Confess Project demonstrates the power of addressing mental health disparities and utilizing existing community spaces. By training barbers and beauticians to be mental health advocates, the Confess Project has reached millions of people and provided much-needed support. Through compassion, active listening, and stigma reduction, barbershops and beauty salons have become safe spaces for individuals to open up about their mental health challenges. The Confess Project’s mission to reduce stigma and improve access to mental health services is a powerful example of how individuals can make a difference in their communities.