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, 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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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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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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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.
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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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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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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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 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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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! 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
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.
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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
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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