Hello, friends! I hope everyone is doing well.
In today’s episode, we take a deep dive into a pressing concern from a listener who's experiencing heightened flight anxiety, especially after a recent panic attack. Having flown multiple times without issues, the sudden resurgence of this anxiety, coupled with the responsibility of traveling with her two kids, has intensified her worries. We discuss the nature of panic attacks, the paradox of fearing anxiety itself, and the importance of anchor thoughts. By understanding the physiological similarities between anxiety and excitement, one can redirect their focus to positive anticipations. We also emphasize the pitfalls of safety behaviors and the significance of relying on support systems, even those onboard. Lastly, we highlight the importance of self-compassion, preparation, and recognizing one’s resilience in facing such challenges.
Additionally, we touched upon the value of grounding techniques like box breathing, the potential of distractions, and the concept of transforming anxiety into excitement using anchor thoughts. We also explore the idea of viewing each phase of the flight as milestones rather than triggers.
As always, if you have questions or topics you'd like discussed on the show, please send them to duffthepsych@gmail.com. Be sure to check out the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode368.
Links mentioned:
Pilot walks you through the sounds of a plane
Mel Robbins discusses her strategies for overcoming plane anxiety
Hello, all! I hope that you are staying healthy and safe. In this episode, I cover two very interesting questions.
In the first, someone has been through almost every treatment for depression and anxiety under the sun, yet they still struggle. Their therapist suggested that they may be on the autism spectrum and the person is wondering whether it would be useful to get an evaluation. We discuss the potential benefits as well as how to go about finding (and affording) an evaluation.
Next, someone has PTSD from their partner's PTSD reactions. Their partner is a war veteran with multiple brain injuries and the question-asker is wondering how they can stay afloat mentally when their partner does not get help. We talk about ways to avoid codependence, how to establish boundaries, and when to call it quits.
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode365
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This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Rather than letting your thoughts stay swirling around in your mind, get them out by talking to a licensed therapist. Try BetterHelp today and get 10% off your first month at http://betterhelp.com/duff
Also, don't forget to check out my new shop. I'm putting out new designs all the time including this awesome mug:
Hello, friends! I hope you are treating yourselves well. In this episode, we dive deep into two thought-provoking listener questions.
Our first discussion revolves around a listener who's grappling with a profound fear of wasps, known as spheksophobia. This phobia has had a significant impact on their quality of life, especially during the summer. We delve into the nature of specific phobias, their prevalence, and debunk some common misconceptions about wasps. Moreover, we explore potential strategies for addressing and managing such fears, emphasizing the role of exposure therapy and the significance of understanding one's fear hierarchy.
The second question opens a window into the world of a couple navigating the challenges of moving in together. One partner has relocated from a cherished home, and both are experiencing the typical growing pains of cohabitation for the first time. We discuss the importance of communication, curiosity, and compromise in this new chapter of their relationship. By establishing routines, rituals, and shared spaces, they can create an environment that feels like home to both, while also setting aside time for individual activities to foster a deeper bond.
Your questions always bring valuable insights to our conversations. If there's a question or topic on your mind, feel free to send it over to duffthepsych@gmail.com. For full show notes, head to http://duffthepsych.com/episode363.
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Life doesn't come with a road map. Whether it is navigating changes in your relationship or figuring out how to use exposure to conquer your anxiety, BetterHelp may be just what you are looking for. Get professional help conveniently and quickly plus 10% off at http://betterhelp.com/duff
Hello, everyone! I hope you are doing super well. As always, I really appreciate your attention. A special thank you to everyone that has left feedback for me about the show. Very helpful. In this weeks episode, I tackle the following questions:
- Could my symptoms be PMDD and if so, how do I get help?
- What can I do about my ex that is spreading harmful lies about me?
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode362
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This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. If you could use the support of a therapist to help you navigate life's challenge. Check out BetterHelp and get connected to a licensed therapist quickly, entirely online. Visit http://betterhelp.com/duff for 10% off your first month.
This episode is also sponsored by OneSkin. If you're like me and would like a simple skincare routine that is backed by clinical research, then OneSkin is for you. Visit http://oneskin.co and use the code "duff" for 15% off.
Hello, friends! I hope you're staying safe from the heat and generally taking good care of yourselves. Today, I have two awesome listener questions.
The first comes from someone that left her job as a teacher because she was burned out. However, now she finds herself in a difficult situation without insurance or a longterm steady income. I provide advice regarding resources for inexpensive and free therapy. I also talk about different resources available to someone in a situation like this and explain how Maslow's heirarchy of needs explains why the person should focus on basic needs before trying to answer big questions about their life and sexuality.
The second question is from a mother with two autistic children and a mother with dementia. She is looking for advice about how to take care of herself without abandoning her family. I provide a variety of ideas for resources that would allow her to have more help and freedom.
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode360
Hello, friends! I hope life is treating you well.
In today's episode, we're going to dive into two more insightful listener questions:
Our first question comes from a listener who's struggling with their spouse's constant engagement with their phone. The impact is such that it seems to supersede any conversation or interaction they might have. They even go so far as to joke that they might be better off texting their spouse, despite being in the same room. We'll delve into this challenge, discussing potential strategies for addressing screen-time issues within relationships, communication tactics, and steps to reclaim mutual attention and presence.
Our second question is from a listener navigating the complexities of depression and anxiety treatment. They've been considering ketamine therapy and have concerns about its application, specifically the difference between IV and oral administration, potential lasting effects, and the overall experience. They're particularly interested in hearing about personal experiences with ketamine therapy, including potential side effects and long-term benefits. We'll unravel the science behind ketamine treatment for depression and anxiety, exploring the potential pros and cons, the lasting effects, and the considerations one should have in mind when deciding on this treatment approach.
As always, I appreciate your questions and engagement with the show. You can send your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode359.
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Sponsor:
This epsiode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Life doesn't come with a guidebook, but you don't have to go it alone. Enlist the help of a licensed therapist entirely online at http://betterhelp.com/duff
Hello, friends! I hope everyone is doing well.
In today's episode, we dive into the following awesome listener questions:
Our first question comes from a listener whose partner was diagnosed with ADHD in childhood. They're now wondering if they might also have Bipolar II, as they experience random bouts of depression and "good days" that may potentially be hypomanic episodes. The listener questions if these mood swings could be catalyzed by situational factors or if they are indeed random. We'll unpack the complexities of distinguishing between ADHD and Bipolar II, discussing the different symptoms, overlaps, and possible courses of action to consider.
Our second question comes from a listener who's been grappling with deep existential thoughts about the concept of the "soul," particularly relating to individuals who die by suicide. They wonder about possible repercussions in potential afterlife scenarios, despite not being particularly religious. They ponder on possibilities like reincarnation, memory erasure, or even punishment. In response to this question, we'll delve into the intersections of spirituality, mental health, and coping with such existential concerns, while emphasizing the importance of empathy and compassion in our understanding of such tragic events.
As always, if you have questions or topics you'd like discussed on the show, please send them to duffthepsych@gmail.com. Be sure to check out the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode355.
Hello, friends! In this episode, I tackle two great listener questions about relationships. The first one comes from someone with borderline personality disorder who would like to figure out if and when they should reveal this to potential partners. The second question comes all the way from Columbia and features someone who is concerned about how enmeshed her boyfriend is with his mother.
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode354
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This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. If you are looking for support and perspective, fill out a quick questionnaire at http://betterhelp.com/duff to get quickly matched with a licensed therapist and receive 10% off your first month!
Hello, friends! It's been an interesting week for me, which I address at the start of the episode. From there, I share with you a previous episode of the show that I wanted to make sure that you've heard! This is all about staying focused. It's a great episode for anyone that might struggle with ADHD or simply has trouble concentrating from time to time. Here are the tips I cover:
- Limit distractions
- Adjust your space - physical and digital
- Do NOT multitask
- Practice mindfulness meditation frequently
- Journal/Plan every day
- Check your planner at least 3x per day
- Set yourself up with an outline before leaving a task
- Keep a notebook nearby for impulsive thoughts that can wait
- Force yourself to prioritize
- If you take it out, put it back
- Don't procrastinate - if it takes less than a minute do it (unless you're in the middle of something else)
- Keep a place for your small things
- Make a mise en place for your workplaces
- Use neutral inputs to satisfy your attention hunger (white noise etc)
- Take breaks for movement
- Abort when you're in to deep
- Work in shifts
- Don't use your partner as a coach
- Use the solution that works, whether it's perfect or not
- Study yourself
This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Don't forget to take care of yourself, so that you can keep being a great support for others. Try online therapy and get 10% off your first month at http://betterhelp.com/duff
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode352
Hello, friends! I hope you are all doing well. Special shout out to the moms out there this week! In this episode, I two awesome listener questions.
Our first question comes from a listener who has been enjoying the podcast and requests an episode focused on "daddy issues." They express curiosity about the causes and potential solutions surrounding this concept. In response to this inquiry, we will delve into the complexities of "daddy issues," examining various contributing factors and discussing potential strategies for healing and personal development.
Moving on to our second question, a long-time listener writes in for the first time, sharing their ongoing struggle with severe social anxiety. They describe how their anxiety often leads to dissociation during conversations, causing them to make impulsive decisions to end interactions prematurely. Despite trying conventional treatments such as CBT, exposure therapy, medication, and group therapy, the listener feels disheartened by the lack of progress and wonders if there are other options available. We'll explore alternative approaches and offer insights on how to navigate social anxiety in a more empowering way.
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode350
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Today's episode is brought to you by Mindbloom, the leader in at-home ketamine therapy for depression and anxiety. You can get $100 off your first treatment at http://mindbloom.com/duff with the code "duff".
- Should I get treatment for my excessive concerns about germs and contamination? How can I re-engage socially with the continuing concerns about COVID-19?
- My partner violated my consent and sexual boundaries repeatedly, but they seem sorry and I still love them. What can I do?
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode347
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Sponsors:
This episode is brought to you by Mindbloom - try at-home Ketamine therapy on your terms and get $100 off your first treatment at mindbloom.com/duff with the promo code duff.
This episode is also brought to you by Air Doctor. If you are in the market for an amazing air purifier, check out airdoctorpro.com and use the promo code duff for a whopping 40% off!
Hey, friends! This episode is a little different. Rather than taking listener questions, I decided to share something that is working really well for me. I take you through a five-step process for doing what I like to call "self-therapy." This is usually done while I am in the car or walking the dog. I highly suggest you also talk out loud to yourself like a weirdo.
FYI: The website is still under construction. It broke badly and we need to rebuild it. It should be up and runing again soon. In the meantime, if you'd like to send me a question for an upcoming episode of the show, please shoot an email to duffthepsych@gmail.com
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This episode is brought to you by AirDoctor. AirDoctor is an amazing air purifier that works quickly enough to circulate the air in an average room four times per hour. It also traps particles as small as 0.003 microns in size. Head over to http://airdoctorpro.com and use the promo code DUFF for up to 40% off (A value of up to $300).
Hello, friends! Huge apologies - the website is currently down. I hope that it is up again soon! In this episode, I answer the following questions:
- I dissociate whenever I try to talk about my feelings. How can I overcome this?
- Bad things seem to happen after I masturbate. Am I causing bad things to happen?
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode343 (once the website is back up).
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Sponsor for this episode is Betterhelp. If you are like the individuals in this episode and could use some help with personal exploration, try professional therapy done completely online. Head over to betterhelp.com/duff for 10% off your first month.
I mention a resource for looking at spurious correlations in the episode. You can find that at https://www.tylervigen.com/spurious-correlations
Hello, everyone. I hope you are treating yourselves well. Q&A episode this week featuring the following great listener questions:
- I have had severe depression and suicidal ideation for the past 25 years and nothing is working. Aside from going into the hospital or an IOP program, what can I do?
- Can you talk about how the thyroid is related to mood and mental health?
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode342
No sponsors this week, so be sure to go check out my author page to find more resources!
Hello, friends! Short and sweet Q&A episode here. Before jumping into the questions, I share a couple strategies that are working well for me right now. Then, I cover the following questions:
- As a teenager, will my therapist have to report if I tell them about my parents abusing me?
- I am a therapist and found a new position that will allow me to make a better living, but it means my fees will increase. How can I deal with this?
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode341
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This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by BetterHelp.
If you are in a mental health slump, consider reaching out to a licensed professional to help. BetterHelp has a large counselor network and you can begin chatting with someone very quickly. Check out betterhelp.com/duff to get 10% off your first month.
Hello, friends! I hope you enjoy this awesome Q&A episode featuring the following listener questions:
- Why do my intrusive thoughts from OCD seem to impact the environment, such as the television?
- How can I find a therapist that is awesome like you? I am on my fourth try with no luck.
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode340
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This episode is brought to you by Mindbloom and Air Doctor.
Mindbloom provides innovative at-home ketamine treatments, which can be extremely helpful for those with anxiety and depression. Their research showed that 89% of over 1,200 participants saw improvement after just two sessions. Head over to mindbloom.com/duff and use the promo code DUFF for $100 off your first six-session program.
Air Doctor is an at-home air purifier that filters out nearly 100% of particals as small as .003 microns. It is whisper quiet and super easy to use. If you suffer from horrendous allergies like me, check out airdoctorpro.com and use the promo code DUFF for up to $300 off!
Hello, everyone! I hope that you are staying safe out there if you are in an area with wild weather conditions. I am having a very cozy weekend. This week, we have a Q&A episoed with the following:
- I spent years obtaining my degree, but I can't find a job that utilizes it. What can I do?
- I want to feel more in therapy, but I can't access the emotion. How can I move forward?
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode339
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This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by BetterHelp.
If you are in a mental health slump, consider reaching out to a licensed professional to help. BetterHelp has a large counselor network and you can begin chatting with someone very quickly. Check out betterhelp.com/duff to get 10% off your first month.
Hi, friends!
In this episode, I do a deep dive into postpartum mental illness including baby blues, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis. This was requested by a number of listeners due to the Lindsay Clancy case, which I discuss briefly in the episode.
Please be aware that I do discuss topics such as infanticide, suicide, and the specific case of Lindsay Clancy. However, I do not go into details of what happened and there are no explicit descriptions.
As always, you can send me questions for future episodes to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode338
Hello, everyone. Short and sweet Q&A episode here featuring the following:
- I made a mistake and lost my friend of 20 years. What can I do about the loneliness and hopelessness I feel now?
- My husband had a brain injury when out daughter was young and now she does not want to be around him because of his behavior. What can I do?
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode
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This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by BetterHelp.
If you are in a mental health slump, consider reaching out to a licensed professional to help. BetterHelp has a large counselor network and you can begin chatting with someone very quickly. Check out betterhelp.com/duff to get 10% off your first month.
Hey, friends! I hope that you are doing well. For this episode, we are back to the usual Q&A format with a ltitle less intensity than last episode. Here is what I cover:
- What can I do about my adult children that have completely ghosted me?
- How can I tell me partner that I'm still grieving my ex that died?
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode336.
This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by Magic Mind and Mindbloom.
Magic Mind contains a magical combination of 12 active ingredients, scientifically designed to improve energy, improve focus, decrease stress, and improve mood — all things that combined, improve your productivity. Get 40% off your subscription at www.magicmind.co/duff with my discount code DUFF20.
Mindbloom is the leader in at-home ketamine therapy for people looking for a new way to treat their anxiety and depression. They combine science-backed medicine with a guided treatment plan that is both affordable and fast-acting. Right now, Mindbloom is offering listeners $100 off their first six session program when you sign up at mindbloom.com/DUFF and use promo code DUFF at checkout.
Hello, friends. Something a little different today. No intro or sponsors. Just a frank response from me to someone that feels that their best option is to stop living. Someone wrote in who is imminently suicidal. Therefore, the contents of this episode might not be appropriate for everyone. Please keep that in mind.
You are not alone.
Hey, everyone! Another Q&A episode for you here featuring the following questions:
- How can I let go of control when I don't like the way other people do things?
- Is it dangerous to take more medications for my depression while I am drinking alcohol? What other options do I have?
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode334
This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by BetterHelp.
If you are in a mental health slump, consider reaching out to a licensed professional to help. BetterHelp has a large counselor network and you can begin chatting with someone very quickly. Check out betterhelp.com/duff to get 10% off your first month.