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The Hardcore Self Help Podcast with Duff the Psych

This is a podcast dedicated to answering your questions about mental health, anxiety, depression, relationships, sex, and life WITHOUT psychobabble BS. I am Dr. Robert Duff, a psychologist from Southern California, but I'm also a regular dude who legitimately wants to help out. I wrote the best selling books Hardcore Self Help: F**k Depression and Hardcore Self Help: F**K Anxiety. Those are available at http://hardcoreselfhelp.com
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The Hardcore Self Help Podcast with Duff the Psych
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Now displaying: Category: general
Sep 22, 2023

Hello, listeners! I hope you're taking care of yourselves and finding moments of joy. In today's episode, we deep dive into a comprehensive question from one of our loyal listeners.

This listener shares their journey, from discovering our podcast through a Men's Health article on mental health to now being engrossed in Dr. Becca Levy's book "Breaking the Aging Code." The core of their question revolves around the challenges the aging population faces, particularly concerning mental health. They highlight the troubling fact that the majority of mental health providers do not accept older patients on Medicare and express concerns about receiving appropriate care as they age, especially without having a family advocate by their side.

Our discussion touches upon the age bias prevalent in the medical community and the importance of proactive health measures, both mentally and physically. We delve into the effects of cardiovascular health on cognitive abilities, the significance of continuous learning and social interactions, and the role of stress in aging. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of advocating for oneself, understanding the intricacies of Medicare, and the potential benefits of seeking younger medical practitioners who may have a fresh perspective on care.

Thank you for consistently sharing your thoughtful questions. They add depth and perspective to our conversations. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to address, please reach out to duffthepsych@gmail.com. Don't forget to check out the detailed show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode367.

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This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. If you would like an outlet for your relentless thoughts, try out talking to a licensed psychotherapist entirely online. Head to http://betterhelp.com/duff for 10% off! 

Sep 15, 2023

Hello, everyone! I appreciate your attention and hope you are doing well.

In our first segment, we dive into a topic that's close to my heart - the evolution of my own marriage into a non-monogamous, polyamorous relationship. I unravel the intricacies of non-monogamy, elucidate the various terminology surrounding it, and give an insight into my personal journey of 'opening up'. If you're curious about polyamory, its various facets, or simply want to understand what it means to navigate such a relationship, this segment offers a comprehensive overview.

The next question touches upon a sensitive yet universal theme: grief. A listener reaches out, concerned about her partner's impending loss of his beloved cat, Jimmy, who has been a steadfast companion through some of life's most challenging moments. We discuss the profound impact pets have on our lives, the unique grief associated with their loss, and strategies to navigate this emotional terrain, especially when mental health challenges are at play.

As always, your stories and questions provide invaluable insights, making every episode a journey of discovery. If there's a topic or question you'd like addressed in future episodes, please send them to duffthepsych@gmail.com. For a detailed breakdown of today's episode, check out the show notes at http://duffthepsych.com/episode366.

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For many people, therapy and traditional medications are not enough to truly help their depression and anxiety. Luckily there are other options, such as Mindbloom, the leader in at-home ketamine treatment. Get $100 off your first series at http://mindbloom.com/duff and use the code DUFF at checkout.

Sep 1, 2023

Hello, friends! I hope you're treating yourselves well. In this episode, I dive into two compelling listener questions that touch on complex emotional states and mental health diagnoses.

First up, we discuss what it means to be diagnosed with PTSD with "schizophrenic episodes." If you've ever been confused by mental health jargon or diagnoses, this segment will provide some clarity. We'll break down the DSM criteria for PTSD and explore the possibility of psychotic symptoms within the framework of trauma.

Our second question is a deeply emotional one. It's about the sudden disappearance of body dysmorphia and low self-esteem following the death of an abusive parent. Can such a significant life event dramatically shift one's self-image? We'll delve into the complexities of grief, closure, and self-perception in this intriguing discussion.

As always, your engagement keeps this show going. Send your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in future episodes. For full show notes, head to duffthepsych.com/episode364.

Aug 4, 2023

Hello, all!

In this episode, I answer the following awesome listener questions.

  • I have successfully been treated for cancer, but I can't stop looking at research and personal accounts online for fear that it may come back. How can I stop?
  • How do weight loss medications like Ozempic help reduce the psychological addiction to food?

Please give me feedback on the show at this link: https://forms.gle/TGx4puKucMJKjSNz7

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode361

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Today's episode is sponsored by Mindbloom. Get $100 off your first at-home ketamine treatment for depression and anxiety at http://mindbloom.com/duff with the promo code duff.

Jul 7, 2023
Hello, friends! I hope you're all doing fantastic.
 
In today's episode, we delve into the following awesome listener questions:
 
Our first question comes from a listener who has been dealing with a challenging relationship with food. They described waking up each day caught in a cycle of remorse over their previous night's eating and anxiety about what the new day will bring. They also mentioned the negative impact this issue has on their relationships and social life. Although they've begun therapy, their current therapist has admitted this specific problem is outside of their expertise. Together, we'll explore this struggle, discussing possible steps toward understanding and addressing problematic eating habits and how to find the right professional help to navigate this journey.
 
Our second question is from a loyal listener who's been with us for three years. They're struggling with setting long-term goals due to anxiety. They aspire to move overseas with their partner in the next 5-10 years but are being held back by worries such as the stability of their relationship and financial concerns. We'll unpack the complexities of setting long-term goals while dealing with anxiety, offering strategies to establish realistic objectives without feeling overwhelmed, and ways to manage the uncertainties that naturally come with future planning.
 
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/episode358.
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This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. If you are looking for some assistance in finding your direction in life, consider enlisting the help of a licensed remote therapist at http://betterhelp.com/duffthepsych
 
Jun 30, 2023

Hello, friends! I hope you're all doing great.

In today's episode, we dive into the following awesome listener questions:

Our first question comes from a listener who's considering whether to continue their journey with antidepressant medication. They've been told by their doctor that most people stay on these medications for life, but they're not sure if this path is right for them. They're grappling with how to gauge if the medication is still necessary or if their mental health has improved enough to consider discontinuing it. We will delve into this complex issue, discussing ways to assess the effectiveness of antidepressants, the potential risks and benefits of long-term use, and how to make informed decisions about your mental health treatment plan.

Our second question is from a long-time listener who has been struggling with feeling comfortable during intimate moments with their partner. Despite feeling sexy when alone, the listener finds it challenging to relax and enjoy intimacy with their partner, possibly due to a decade-long journey with infertility and miscarriages. Now surgically sterile, the listener is looking for ways to reclaim their sex life and feel comfortable in their own skin during intimate encounters. We will explore ways to navigate this emotional terrain, discussing how past experiences can impact present relationships and strategies for fostering healthy and satisfying intimacy.

As always, feel free to send your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com. You can find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode357.

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This episode is sponsored by ONE SKIN. If you are looking to reverse the impact of aging on your skin, check out this simple skincare product developed by several PhD-level scientists. Get 15% off your order at http://oneskin.co with the offer code DUFF

 

Jun 2, 2023
Hello, friends! I hope you are all doing well.
 
Our first question comes from a listener who reached out to express their appreciation for the show, my course, and books. They share a childhood experience of being in a dodge car accident where they were hit from behind, resulting in a significant lump on their head and feelings of sickness and disorientation. They recently heard me speak about frontal lobe damage and its potential effects, which resonated with them. They also suspect they may be undiagnosed autistic. They are concerned about the possibility of having sustained a brain injury and whether an MRI at their current age (31) would reveal any long-term effects. This uncertainty has brought up feelings of betrayal and neglect. I provide insight into the likelihood of detecting an old brain injury on an MRI and offer guidance on the next steps to gain clarity and peace of mind.
 
Moving on to our second question, a listener in their late twenties shares their struggle with assessing whether to judge people based on how they treat others or solely on how they treat them. They describe ending relationships with men who exhibited disrespectful behavior towards other women, as well as navigating concerns about a close platonic female friend who has made questionable moral choices. They ponder whether to judge people based on their life choices or patterns, and if it's necessary to align values with others or accept them as they are. I delve into the complexities of these situations, emphasizing the importance of personal boundaries, unconditional positive regard, and self-reflection in determining how to approach relationships.
 
As always, I appreciate your support 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/episode353.
 
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This episode is sponsored by Mindbloom, the leader in at-home ketamine treatment. If you are struggling with depression and anxiety, try ketamine treatment from the safety and comfort of your own home and get $100 off at http://mindbloom.com/duff with the code duff at checkout.
May 19, 2023

Hello, friends! This is a short and sweet episode. No ads today, but I have two awesome listener questions. 

First, I tackle a question from someone that feels the end of their relationship is inevitable due to moving to another state and they are already struggling with feelings of grief.

The second question is from someone with a background of trauma that wants advice about how to deal with their friend's angry outbursts.

I hope you enjoy!

 

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode351

 

May 5, 2023
Hello, friends! In this episode, I answer two listener questions.
 
The first question is from a listener who has been with her boyfriend for over 10 years, but suspects he is a narcissist and compulsive liar. She believes that a car accident at 17, which resulted in physical injuries as well as a TBI, may have stunted his development. The listener is struggling with her boyfriend's lying behavior and wonders if he's lying about their relationship too. She asks how to deal with the lying and gaslighting, and how to tell if her boyfriend's love for her is genuine.
 
In the second question, a listener shares her concerns about her younger sister's emotional development, given their mother's unpredictable and intense reactions to normal child behavior. The listener worries about her sister's mental health and emotional growth, and wants her mother to be more gentle and understanding towards her. However, the listener is struggling with confronting her mother due to past fear of her reactions. She asks for advice on how to approach the situation.
 
As always, you can send your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com, and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode349.
 
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This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Don't lose yourself in the shuffle. Get linked up with a licensed therapist completely online and get 10% off your first month at http://betterhelp.com/duff 
Apr 7, 2023

Hello, friends! I hope that you are taking good care of yourselves. We are back to the Q&A format this week with the following amazing listener questions:

  • I am stable on bipolar medications, but I hate the side effects. What can I do?
  • My CBT therapy just seems to worsen my mood. How can I make it more helpful?

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com

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This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Get affordable counseling from a licensed therapist completely online at http://betterhelp.com/duff 

Dec 16, 2022

Hello, all! In this episode, I answer the following questions from awesome listeners like yourself:

  • How can I recover my memory following a trumatic brain injury?
  • How can I stop making myself anxious and depressed by comparing myself to other people?

Don't forget to take a look at my new book of questions including the following one that I include in the episode: What things were and were not talked about in your family of origin?


This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by Audible and BetterHelp.

Audible is the leading provider of spoken-word entertainment all in one place, where you can find the largest selection of audiobooks. Sign up now by heading to audible.com/duff or text duff to 500-500, and receive your first 30 days for free.

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.

Dec 9, 2022

Hello, friends! Hope you are well. Back with another Q&A episode this week featuring the following questions submitted by listeners like you:

  • What steps can I add to my exposure ladder for agoraphobia to stop having so many panic attacks in public?
  • How can I work on the lack of sex in my marriage?

As always, you can send me questions for the show to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode330

 


This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by BetterHelp and Uncommon Goods.

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.

Uncommon Goods is here to make your holiday shopping stress-free by scouring the globe for the most remarkable and truly unique gifts for everyone on your list. To get 15% off your next gift, go to uncommongoods.com/duff.

Dec 2, 2022

Hello, everyone! Exciting news. My new book, 500 Questions for Dating, Relationships, Romance, and More is out! I talk more about it at the beginning of the epidode, but I really think that it will serve as a useful resource to many of you. Orders are shipping quickly right now, so there is plenty of time to get it before the holidays if you're into that kind of thing.

Anyways, I have an awesome Q&A episode for you today featuring the following listener questions:

  • Is it weird to be turned on and want to masturbate after therapy?
  • How can I get therapy moving faster? Does it make sense to give a new therapist a document of information?

As always, you can send me questions for the show to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode329


This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by Uncommon Goods and Roman Swipes.

Uncommon Goods is here to make your holiday shopping stress-free by scouring the globe for the most remarkable and truly unique gifts for everyone on your list. To get 15% off your next gift, go to uncommongoods.com/duff.

Roman Swipes are convenient, over-the-counter wipes that are clinically proven to help you last longer in bed. Try Swipes today with a special offer just for listeners of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast with 20% off your first order. Visit getroman.com/DUFF or 20% off.

 

Nov 25, 2022

Hello, friends! Hope you are enjoying some time off with loved ones or some quiet time on your own. Here are the question I cover in this episode:

  • I think antidepressants are causing me to self-injure due to being numb. What should I do?
  • I have hit a rock bottom in my mid 50s including divorce, losing my job, and a DUI. How do I survive?

As always, you can send me your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode328


Sponsor:

This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by Chomper Labs and Uncommon Goods.

Chomper Labs believe that everyone has a right to quality affordable oral care and specialize in custom made night guards for teeth grinding. Right now, listeners of the podcast can get $15 off their first night guard plus Free 3-way shipping with code DUFF. Just visit chomperlabs.com/DUFF.

Uncommon Goods is here to make your holiday shopping stress-free by scouring the globe for the most remarkable and truly unique gifts for everyone on your list. To get 15% off your next gift, go to uncommongoods.com/duff.

Nov 11, 2022

Hello, beautiful people. This is another Q&A episode of the podcast featuring the following questions:

  • How do I know when I enjoy alcohol too much?
  • Why did I push so hard to keep a relationship that wasn't good for me?

As always, you can send me your questions for the show to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode326

 


This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by BetterHelp and Uncommon Goods.

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.

Uncommon Goods is here to make your holiday shopping stress-free by scouring the globe for the most remarkable and truly unique gifts for everyone on your list. To get 15% off your next gift, go to uncommongoods.com/duff.

Oct 27, 2022

Hello, all! This week, since it's my birthday week, I am taking it easy and having some fun with the show. As a lot of you know, I've been working on a collection of questions and prompts for dating, relationships, sexuality etc. So, today I am answering some of those questions from my own perspective. Enjoy!


This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by Roman Swipes and BetterHelp.

Roman Swipes are convenient, over-the-counter wipes that are clinically proven to help you last longer in bed. Try Swipes today with a special offer just for listeners of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast with 20% off your first order. Visit getroman.com/DUFF or 20% off.

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.

Oct 22, 2022

Hey, everyone! Thanks for your patience in waiting an extra day for the show this week. Seems like everyone is having a weird week, myself included. Mercury must be in reverse cowgirl again or something. ANYWAYS! Here are the questions covered in this episode:

  • How can I help my parents heal and set boundaries without ruining my own mental health?
  • I am losing energy and motivation to search for jobs. What can I do?

As always, you can send me questions to the show to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes at http://duffthepsych.com/episode323


This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp head over to http://betterhelp.com/duff to get 10% off your first month of online therapy!

Oct 14, 2022

Hello, all! This is a really interesting episode, in my opinion. That's due to your awesome questions! Here's what I cover:

  • When I get angry, I headbutt things, which has given me black eyes. How can I get help?
  • What is trichotillomania and how can you work on it?

As always, you can send me your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes at http://duffthepsych.com/episode322


This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by Audible.

Audible is the leading provider of spoken-word entertainment all in one place, where you can find the largest selection of audiobooks. Sign up now by heading to audible.com/duff or text duff to 500-500, and receive your first 30 days for free.

Sep 23, 2022

Hello, all! Short but sweet episode this time covering the following:

  • What can I do about my fear of dying and leaving behind my paralyzed husband?
  • Is it normal to use antidepressants after a concussion?

As always, you can send me your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode320

 


This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by Audible.

Audible is the leading provider of spoken-word entertainment all in one place, where you can find the largest selection of audiobooks. Sign up now by heading to audible.com/duff or text duff to 500-500, and receive your first 30 days for free.

Sep 16, 2022

Hello, all! In this episode I tackle the following topics from listeners like you:

  • My friend is a pilot and is worried about getting therapy because of medical clearance issues. What can they do?
  • I have phobia of medications and injections. How can I use exposure therapy in a situation like this?

As always, you can send me your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode319

 


If you find that you could use some help with problem solving in your life, you might benefit from individual therapy done securly online. Check out http://betterhelp.com/duff to get 10% off your first month. Quickly match and switch therapists at any time. 

Aug 26, 2022

Hello, friends! Great episode for you today featuring questions that are follow-ups on previous questions. Here's what I cover:

  • My therapist seems to get frustrated and angry when I'm suicidal. What can I do about this?
  • How can I maintain my self-concept in relationships?

As always, you can send me questions for future episodes to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes at http://duffthepsych.com/episode316


This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by Magic Mind and BetterHelp.

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.

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.

Aug 19, 2022

Hello, friends. I hope you're taking good care of yourselves. Here are the questions that I cover in this episode:

  • I can't feel emotions. How can I start feeling things?
  • I keep in touch with my old therapist still. Is that holding me back?

As always, you can send me your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode315

 


This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by Organifi and Audible.

Organifi is a line of organic superfood blends that offer plant-based nutrition with high quality ingredients and less than 3g of sugar. Go to organifi.com/duff and use code DUFF for 15% off any item in the store.

Audible is the leading provider of spoken-word entertainment all in one place, where you can find the largest selection of audiobooks. Sign up now by heading to audible.com/duff or text duff to 500-500, and receive your first 30 days for free.

Aug 6, 2022

Hello, friends! This is a simpler check-in episode. I update you on what has been going on in my life - particularly this wild week. I also revisit my goals that I outlined for the year and reflect on what has stuck, what has faded, and what I'm okay moving on from. Hope you enjoy! 

As always, you can send me questions for a future episode to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode313


Sponsor:

This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by Organifi.

Organifi is a line of organic superfood blends that offer plant-based nutrition with high quality ingredients and less than 3g of sugar. Go to organifi.com/duff and use code DUFF for 15% off any item in the store.

Jul 29, 2022

Hello, everyone! I hope you've had a great week. Back at you with an awesome Q&A featuring the following questions:

  • My ex-wife was emotionally abusive and controlling to me. We share children and she is constantly belittling me when we interact. What can I do?
  • My psychologist does not seem to be trying very hard in sessions. How can I fix things?

As always, you can send me your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode312

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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.

Jul 22, 2022

Hello, friends! I hope you are staying cool and hydrated if you are in one of the major heatwave areas! In this episode, I answer the following awesome listener questions:

  • How can I stop procrastinating on household tasks, homework, and my job? 
  • My partner said he can't fulfill my love language. What can I do?

As always, you can send me your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes at http://duffthepsych.com/episode311

 


This episode of Hardcore Self Help is sponsored by Audible.

Audible is the leading provider of spoken-word entertainment all in one place, where you can find the largest selection of audiobooks. Sign up now by heading to audible.com/duff or text duff to 500-500, and receive your first 30 days for free.

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