Did you know that one in five Americans suffer from a mental illness, yet only 44% receive treatment for it? Or how about this — heroin-related overdose deaths have increased 286% in the U.S. between 2002 – 2013! Mental health and addiction are two sensitive topics that continue to be stigmatized in our culture, despite the frequency of these issues that effect so many people around the world. These two topics are near and dear to my heart, as my guest today, David Dastmalchian, is not only a very successful actor/writer who has faced both these issues, but also happens to be my little brother!
David and I grew up in a small Kansas town and were regarded in the community as two of the four high-achieving kids from the seemingly perfect Dastmalchian family. But of course, not all was as it seemed. Listen in as David shares how his struggles with his mental health started and how his teenage introduction to alcohol paved the way to years of dangerous self-medicating. You’ll hear just how difficult this struggle was and how the shame truly took him to his breaking point.
David also discusses how his difficult experiences have not only inspired him to write, act, & create art bringing attention to his struggles, but have also truly inspired him to help others in a similar situation. He shares what’s missing from our society to help support people in these situations, and what he thinks would truly make an impact on the very sad statistics.
I am so proud of my brother David and all of his successes! I know you will truly be inspired by his story of strength & perseverance.
Thank you for this podcast in general and this talk with your brother David in particular. I’m from Germany, so please pardon my English. I’ve met David briefly at the Comic Con Germany in Stuttgart recently. He’s such a charming and likeable human being. I was flabbergasted to hear about the hell he and his family had to go through. I’m glad everything turned out the way it did. My girlfriend told me she considers David to be a philanthropist. And I think that’s one of the biggest compliments one human being can pay another. I’m very much looking forward to the next conversations!
Marco — thanks so much for your lovely comment! David is such an amazing person, and I’m so glad you got to meet him! I love the philanthropist compliment — so sweet! Look forward to keeping in touch and sharing more amazing stories!!! xo
One of my employees is a 3 yr clean survivor from a 20 year heroin habit. She is amazing … yet struggling as her soul mate passed away a few months ago, and although she has remained strong so far, her sorrow nearly gets the best of her everyday. I just shared this with her. Thank you and David, for sharing this story. I have a team of 25 that work super hard everyday in a super busy diner … and many on my team are in recovery from either Meth or Heroin. We believe in giving people second chances, we are a safe supportive space. Sometimes I feel like a sheltered outsider to what they have overcome, David helped me look inside the addiction which will help me be a better leader, and friend. And Holly, hearing your giggle brought back such great memories. I could really use a day with you!! Love you, Timirie
Love you, Timirie! Thanks for your amazing message and sharing! Such a sad story but hope this podcast gives her hope. xo
I’m sharing the story and this link via Twitter…thank you both and God bless you!
Love this, Bryna! Thanks so much for sharing & glad that you loved the episode! God Bless You too! xo
Great interview! I’ll make sure to include the link into my newest blog post today (I write Updates on the MacGyver Reboot).
So glad you enjoyed it! That would be amazing!!! Thank you!!