Today would’ve been Robin Williams’s 71st birthday, the improvisational genius who left a permanent mark with close to 100 movies such as Good Will Hunting, Good Morning Vietnam, and Mrs. Doubtfire to name a few. He was an incredibly talented actor, husband, father, philanthropist, and above all a person who could spark joy in people with his gander. At the age of 63 he took his own life, falling victim to his own beautiful mind and falling prey to mental illness stigma.
This week, I wanted to take a moment to share a mini story of a good friend, Dara Sanandaji, who broke his silence on mental illness. Dara had many passions from law to filmmaking and he followed them all. Upon graduating from a film production program in Chicago, he decided make a documentary about his challenges with mental illness and open himself up to the world. One Saturday afternoon along with other friends, he invited me over to his house. I was confused by the lights and the camera crew but shortly realized I was to be interviewed for his movie. As the film continued rolling, he shared his story including all the dark and ugly parts. His documentary went on to win a few awards, and his courageous exploration of mental illness continues to bring attention to the film. You can watch the trailer here, and here is more info on his documentary.
Dara has an incredibly supportive family and friends. Courage like his is incredibly rare, but also much needed to set an example for those suffering in the shadows. Hopefully someone, somewhere watches his film and finds the inspiration to face their challenges and stand strong. According to Dara, his biggest dream with this project is to turn the tide against mental illness stigma and connect with those around us who are suffering but unable to ask for help. The world is a better place with individuals like Robin Williams who would’ve continued to spread joy if he was here with us today.
Between those who take their own lives and those who walk into schools with rifles, precious lives are lost to mental illness all the time. There is a new Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988), and hopefully more choose to seek help before any lives are lost. I strongly believe, as friends and family, it’s our responsibility to be open and welcoming of difficult and sometimes embarrassing conversations. What can be more meaningful than supporting someone we care for and being their rock in a time of need?
Together for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling tomorrow,
– Burak Sarac, Team Lead
Edit an iMessage in iOS 16
iPhone users, get ready to say goodbye to texting typos forever. With the latest iOS 16 software update, iMessage users can easily edit a text after they’ve sent it. But be careful – devices running on older iOS will not see the edits. Click here to learn more!
International Self Care Day is July 24th
On this day, individuals throughout the world are encouraged to make self-care a part of their everyday routines and turn it into a priority. It is a milestone and an opportunity to raise further awareness of the benefits of effective self-management of health. Self-care looks like something different to every person, so make sure you are listening to your body, mind, and soul, and not just the self-care industry. To get you started, here are some tips on how to practice relaxation. Additionally, here is a great list of books on stress & healing to check out!
Law Enforcement May View Your Ring Videos
Here is something you probably didn’t know when you purchased Amazon Ring cameras and Echo Dots: there is a webpage where law enforcement can fill out a form, say there’s a life-threatening emergency, and get access to your data without your consent, a court order, or any kind of warrant. There’s nothing in the Terms of Service about this, and the company has maintained for years that it helps police get consent first, but it’s happening anyhow. Like any controversial conversation, there are many sides to this story. Read more here.
Mango Day is July 22nd
It’s peak summertime and we cannot wait to get the celebrations started for Mango Day on July 22. What is your favorite way to eat mango? By itself is always an option, but don’t forget about Mango Salsa, Smoothies, or restaurant specialties like the Mango Sticky Rice from Sticky Rice on Western. Here’s a compilation of fun recipes to get started!
