Episode 1 - January 19, 2026Join Dr. Arela Agako and Dr. Adile Nexha as they launch the Albanian Community Mental Health Podcast. In this introductory episode, they share their personal journeys and the inspiration behind creating a platform dedicated to breaking the stigma around mental health in the Albanian community. Discover how cultural nuances shape mental health experiences and learn about their mission to foster open dialogue and provide culturally sensitive resources. Subscribe to embark on this journey of understanding and support.
Episode 2 - February 17, 2026In this episode of the Albanian Community Mental Health Podcast, we explore the long-term psychological impact of war in Kosovo. Dr. Arela Agako and Dr. Adile Nexha are joined by psychologist Mimoza Gashi to discuss trauma, PTSD, and depression in post-war societies, the role of psychology in community healing, and the importance of reducing stigma around mental health. A powerful conversation about resilience, education, and collective responsibility in the healing process.
Episode 3 - March 23, 2026Join us as Dr. Sonila Sejdaras, clinical psychologist and founder of Care for Albania, shares her personal journey and insights on mental health in the Albanian community. She reflects on growing up under Albania’s communist regime and how those experiences shaped her understanding of trauma, collective grief, and emotional expression across generations. Dr. Sejdaras also explores the role of spirituality, identity, and coping in fostering well-being, offering a thoughtful discussion on how history, culture, and emotional health intersect.
Episode 4 - April 27, 2026In this episode of the ACMH podcast, we explore adolescent substance use in the Albanian community with Ermal Dautaj, a psychotherapist specializing in multisystemic family therapy. We discuss early signs, family dynamics, and the effects of substances like marijuana and synthetics on youth. The conversation offers practical guidance for parents on building trust, communicating openly, supporting recovery, and understanding the role of therapy and community in reducing stigma.
Episode 5 - May 29, 2026Join us as we speak with Dr. Elger Baraku about the powerful connection between emotional and physical health, exploring how stress, anxiety, and suppressed emotions can manifest as real physical symptoms. This episode dives into psychosomatic health, common misdiagnoses, cultural stigma around mental health, and the importance of psychotherapy in healing both the mind and body, offering valuable insights for anyone struggling with unexplained symptoms or looking to better understand the mind-body connection.