Man Overboard: A Story of Mental Health and Hope | Taka Barron | TEDxBentleyU
"What happens when the one overboard… is you?
In this raw and powerful talk, Navy veteran Taka Barron shares how years of depression, silence, and trauma nearly ended his life — and how learning to ask for help became his turning point. Through the metaphor of a "man overboard" call, he reveals the truth about vulnerability, survival, and why no one is meant to face the storm alone." Robert "Taka" Barron is a student at Bentley University, pursuing a B.S. in Management. He is a U.S. Navy veteran who served as a Hospital Corpsman—equivalent to a combat medic—he spent six years in high-pressure medical environments, serving in a variety of roles including Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Naval Medical Center San Diego, as a Fleet Marine Force Corpsman with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment at Camp Pendleton, and later as a civilian during the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout his service, he silently battled depression and anxiety. Now, he is committed to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, encouraging others to seek support, and fostering open conversations about mental well-being. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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