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The invisible aftermath of the pandemic lingers in our collective psyche, manifesting as road rage, workplace tensions, and an unprecedented reluctance to wait in line for anything. Patricia Heard, with three decades of clinical social work experience, unpacks these phenomena through the lens of unresolved trauma and adaptation.

Patricia takes us on a remarkable journey from her days at Mount Holyoke College during the early women's movement to her groundbreaking work in mental health. Having navigated environments where she was "often the only woman and the only minority," her perspective on DEI initiatives and their recent backlash carries profound weight. She draws compelling parallels between her experiences breaking barriers in the 1970s and the challenges faced by today's young professionals who, despite earning their credentials, still battle skepticism about their qualifications.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Patricia examines the evolution of mental health acceptance in the Black community. "When I first started in mental health, I had very few Black patients," she reveals, explaining how the stigma—"nobody in my family is crazy"—kept many from seeking help. Today's recognition of Black Mental Health Month signals progress, but the journey toward destigmatizing therapy continues.

Perhaps most thought-provoking is Patricia's analysis of pandemic-era entrants to the workforce who missed crucial socialization experiences. Without organically developed workplace social skills, many struggle with professional interactions, contributing to a broader pattern of social disconnection. Combined with technology that reduces face-to-face communication practice, we're witnessing unprecedented levels of impatience and social friction.

Patricia leaves us with wisdom that feels especially vital today: "Be honest with yourself about what you can and cannot do" and "allow yourself to just experience life." In our productivity-obsessed culture, she reminds us that focusing solely on doing rather than experiencing means missing the richness life offers. When did we forget how to ask for help? Perhaps our renewed focus on mental health will remind us this fundamental human connection is strength, not weakness.

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