Today we’d like to introduce you to Kenneth Reddick II.
Hi Kenneth, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Many of you may know me as Scooter, the upbeat, energetic person that cares about so many. But little do you know, I had to learn to care for myself first. I had my first bout of Depression in college, but with stigmas in the black community, I didn’t identify or take it seriously. Through a life of alcoholism, which has a major impact on serotonin and mood, I soon started to recognize negative patterns in my life. At one point in my adulthood, I realized I needed help and was diagnosed with Bipolar Depressive Disorder. The alcohol had a hold of me. It was my choice of medication. It wasn’t until COVID hit that I realized I needed to seek some serious help. Through the help of my company’s EAP program, I sought therapy on my own and took my illness seriously. Many didn’t know my struggles were due to Mental Illness, but it took a toll on my family. Through therapy, medication, and self-care, I am now happy to say that I am now sober, and I am a better person. I created the Brothers Brunch Foundation to help Black Men with Mental Health and Self Care Awareness. I share this to say that after 30 years of battling my Mental Stigma, I finally used the resources that I had to be a “Better Me”. I must speak out because my Me just might be YOU.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It is always difficult to convince people to change. Getting men to come out to intentionally and purposefully have a conversation about Mental Health and self-care is always a challenge. I have to tell my story so that men don’t feel uncomfortable coming into an environment feeling uncomfortable, but I tell them that their story could never beat mine, then we laugh, and most of the time, I get a commitment to come out.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
This is my Purpose. I have lived a journey that no one has, but many can relate to me. Many don’t speak about their Mental Health status. I’m an open book from day one and it takes many by surprise because my presentation and status in certain places it was never seen. Talking about our lives is therapy as well. The more I get out, the more energy I have within to be “Positive, Consistent, and Present”. The only way someone can have someone to talk to is only when they can relate. There are not too many things that I haven’t experienced when it comes to Mental Health and Addiction that have not given someone a positive trigger that we could converse. This gift is a Testimony and it’s nothing that came from my mind, but I received it in my Spirit, and that’s what BBF gives a safe space for you to give your Testimony, too.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Brothersbrunchfoundation.com
- Instagram: Brothersbrunchfoundationinc
- Facebook: Brothersbrunchfoundationinc
