We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jay Roy. Check out our conversation below.
Jay , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I have been struggling with my PTSD and anxiety since the loss of my subordinate, due to suicide. A normal day for me right now is finding a lot of self care and positive reassurance. Reminding myself that everything will be okay. Surrounding myself with positivity and trying to help others that are drowning alone behind closed doors. Understanding that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Janell Roy, and I work in law enforcement in Texas. I was born in the Bronx, NY and raised in Houston, TX. I have been a supervisor for approximately 9yrs. Prior to law enforcement, I played basketball all through high school and college. After graduating college, I joined the law enforcement family. About 3yrs, I lost a subordinate due to suicide on the job. Since then, this incident has become a part of me and helping ours through untold, and unhealed struggles. I am currently working on obtaining a LLC to help others develop skills and positive coping to understand their “new you”. Mental health has become a huge factor in my life after being diagnosed with PTSD and chronic anxiety.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
The moment that shaped how I seen the world was after the suicide incident. As a society we are so quick to judge without understanding what someone is truly going through inside. We assume everyone is okay cause they smile, in reality so many of us smile to cover pain that we don’t speak about. Everyone has a breaking point and how we overcome those struggles without being judged is imperative. We are consumed with what our friends/family will think when we tell them we are not okay. We are brought up to be strong and learn to survive without help. When we need help we don’t seek out. In my most vulnerable days I cried alone; when someone called I learned to disguise myself that everything was great. When I walked in public, I was able to act like nothing bothered me. Meanwhile I suffered in silence. People I loved judged me for my “changed behavior” without understanding my struggles. Society has become so shallow that we overlook when people are struggling in plain sight.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
After the loss my conscience wouldn’t let me believe anything other than it was my fault, and I failed him as a supervisor. I could not forgive myself for the loss that occurred. Guilt ate at me for years that I felt like I was worthless and my purpose was no more. I became a walking self destruction, until I finally had the courage to go get help.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
My project right now is building my LLC to help others learn how to heal during traumatic situations.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
My peace is what I create and the environment I am in. When I am listening to music with a candle burning.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @jayroy23
