Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Tamara R. Jackson.

Founder of Hopeful Therapy and Consulting, she provides holistic mental health care with an emphasis on trauma-informed support for individuals living with autoimmune diseases.

🔑 Key Themes & Highlights

1. Understanding Autoimmune Diseases

   • Autoimmune diseases occur when the body mistakenly attacks healthy cells. Common examples include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), multiple sclerosis (MS), and Crohn’s disease.
   • Over 80 types of autoimmune diseases exist, yet public awareness remains low.

2. Tamara’s Personal Journey

   • She has worked in mental health for over two decades.
   • During the Covid lockdown, she experienced worsening symptoms, eventually leading to her rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis.
   • With limited resources available during the pandemic, she relied on her professional expertise and personal resilience to navigate her new reality.

3. Symptoms & Daily Impact

   • Inflammation & Mobility Issues – Tamara experienced extreme stiffness, particularly in her hands, making basic tasks difficult.
   • Chronic Fatigue – Unlike normal tiredness, this type of exhaustion can cause sudden body shutdowns, resembling narcolepsy.

4. Mental Health & Autoimmune Disease

   • Growing Awareness in Black Communities – The last five years have seen significant improvements in mental health advocacy, especially post-Covid.
   • Cultural Stigma – While progress has been made, stigma around seeking help still exists in communities of color.
   • Safe Spaces Matter – Tamara emphasizes the importance of therapy and open dialogue for individuals managing chronic illnesses.

5. Diet & Lifestyle Adjustments

   • The anti-inflammatory diet plays a critical role in managing symptoms.
   • Avoiding processed foods, excessive sugar, and farm-raised meats can reduce inflammation.
   • Each person’s dietary needs differ based on their autoimmune condition.

6. The Invitation Documentary

   • Tamara directed an award-winning documentary, The Invitation, which educates the public about autoimmune diseases.
   • Available for rent on Vimeo, the film includes testimonials, expert insights, and screenings with interactive discussions.

📘 Resources & Contact Information
Tamara’s work is accessible through:
🔗 Instagram: @TheInvitationDocumentary
🔗 Website: https://www.hopefulltherapyandconsulting.com/

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