Meet Jonathan Niziol

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jonathan Niziol . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Jonathan, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
My journey through adversity and self-discovery revealed my purpose, a path paved with personal battles and triumphs. It began with the profound loss of my mother at the tender age of 21, followed by a tumultuous struggle with alcohol and drug addiction, compounded by various mental health issues, an eating disorder and enduring traumatic experiences such as the loss of three of my close friends, one of which to suicide, one from a terrible car accident and lastly one from a underlying heart condition. Additionally I experienced a life changing sexual assault from a designer on a casting in Miami as an adult. Despite the daunting obstacles, I refused to surrender to despair. Instead, I summoned the courage to confront my inner demons, seek assistance, and rebuild my life from the ground up.

These trials instilled in me a burning desire to enact change, particularly in addressing the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by men. Witnessing the alarming statistics on male mental health and suicide rates fueled my determination to become an advocate. I realized that by sharing my story, I could offer support, inspiration, and a ray of hope to those silently grappling with their own battles.

My journey led me through diverse endeavors; I proudly stand 16 years sober from alcohol and 6 1/2 years sober from everything else. I’ve forged a thriving career as an international model and assumed the role of a beacon for fitness and resilience. Through my efforts, I aspire to dismantle the stigmas surrounding male mental health, inspire others to seek help, and equip them with the tools and courage needed to overcome their personal struggles.

Embracing my purpose has transformed my pain into a wellspring of empowerment. My story serves as a guiding beacon, illuminating the possibility of transcending adversity and finding fulfillment by extending a helping hand to others on their journey through trials.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am a native of Ontario Canada, born in April 1982 and spent my early years on a farm in the area of Peterborough which served as my playground. It was here where I developed my hockey prowess, proudly representing in competitions across Ontario. My love for lacrosse grew during my childhood, playing dedicatedly for the major series lacrosse and the esteemed Brooklin Lacrosse Club. Growing up on a farm instilled in me valuable lessons about hard work, discipline and freedom making it a fantastic environment to grow up in.

Today nearing 42 years old, my mission is clear: to eliminate the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. Society often imposes expectations of toughness and resilience upon us, making it challenging to openly address our emotional well-being. I’m challenging these stereotypes head-on, creating a space where men can freely express their emotions, acknowledge their struggles, and seek the support they need. I am dedicated to fostering a culture that values vulnerability and prioritizes mental well-being.

Recognizing the pressures to conform to traditional masculinity, I am committed to redefining it. I strive to show that seeking help is a display of strength, actively breaking down barriers that prevent men from addressing their mental health concerns. By challenging stereotypes and building support networks, my goal is to catalyze a positive shift in attitudes towards men’s mental wellness, empowering each individual to lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.

My advocacy for this cause is deeply rooted in my personal journey of overcoming drug addiction, alcoholism, an eating disorder, and various mental health challenges. These struggles were exacerbated by the tragic loss of my mother the day before my 21st birthday, a sexual assault experienced as an adult during a modeling casting, and the loss of three close friends—one to suicide, one to a car accident, and another to an undiagnosed heart condition. These experiences have given me a profound understanding of their impact on individuals.

My own battles have become a catalyst for change. Experiencing the isolating effects of stigma and the difficulty in finding support inspired me to turn my experiences into a mission to help others facing similar challenges. By shedding years of secrecy and contributing to my own growth and healing, I am driven by a passion to ensure that everyone receives empathy, understanding, and accessible resources to break free from the chains of addiction and mental health struggles.

I firmly believe that sharing my story and offering assistance can be a lifeline for those navigating similar battles. The resilience I discovered within myself propels me to empower others on their journey towards recovery and mental well-being. This cause resonates deeply with me, embodying the transformative journey that becomes possible with the right support and resources.

Today, I can proudly say I am a successful international model, with representation in 8 states and shoots for prestigious global brands like Men’s Health Editorial, Hugo Boss, and Jockey Underwear. Beyond modeling, I also serve as a fitness role model, a real estate investor, and a supportive friend to many. My mission extends beyond my professional achievements; I strive to share my personal struggles, providing others with the tools and strength needed to conquer their own battles. Through my journey, I aim to be a beacon of hope, showcasing resilience and transformation against all odds.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
One piece of advice that has profoundly impacted my journey is prioritizing regular exercise. I’ve found that establishing a daily gym routine not only improves my physical health but also instills discipline and creates a sense of structure in my daily life. Consistency in exercise fosters positive habits that extend beyond the gym, and engaging in team sports like ice hockey adds a social component that alleviates anxiety, stress, and promotes well-being. The camaraderie with teammates, the thrill of competition, and the focus required during the game contribute to my mental wellness, providing dedicated time to focus and be present with myself.

Another impactful advice was emphasizing the importance of social connection. Having battled severe anxiety and clinical depression, I once avoided social interactions during challenging times. However, I’ve come to recognize the significance of establishing and nurturing meaningful relationships with friends, family, or a community. These connections serve as vital sources of emotional support and foster a sense of belonging, building a robust support system that effectively counteracts the adverse impacts of stress.

Lastly, setting challenges for myself has been instrumental in my growth and resilience. Despite the initial discomfort, deliberately exposing myself to situations that heighten anxiety has been pivotal for personal development. Confronting and overcoming challenges not only contributes to my self-esteem but also fosters a positive mental state. As the saying goes, “life happens outside of your comfort zone,” and embracing this mindset has propelled me forward on my journey toward mental wellness and personal fulfillment.

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
One of my favourite books is “How to Win Friends and Influence People.” It serves as a guide on how to be a good person, emphasising simple yet impactful principles like thinking of others and not just yourself. I believe society would greatly benefit if everyone took the time to read this book and incorporate its messages and practices into their lives.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
All pictures are owned by myself.

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