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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: Self-Help
Jul 5, 2024

Hello, friends!

In today’s episode, we delve into the transformative potential of ketamine therapy for mental health with Dr. Chantalle Thomas, a leading expert in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.

Dr. Thomas is a trainer in Fluence’s Advanced Certificate in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy as well as Executive Clinical Director at Windrose Recovery.

Dr. Thomas discusses the complexities of ketamine as a treatment, its various administration routes, and the profound changes it can facilitate when integrated with therapy. We also explore the importance of therapeutic integration in maximizing the benefits of ketamine, the ethical considerations in psychedelic medicine, and navigating the current regulatory landscape.

Additionally, Dr. Thomas shares her personal journey into mental health and psychedelics, and the importance of authenticity and attachment theory in therapy.

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode404

Links:

https://windroserecovery.com/podcast/therapy-unblinded-inside-mdma-research/

https://www.fluencetraining.com/

https://maps.org/

 

Jun 7, 2024

Hello, everyone!

Thank you SO much for joining me for episode 400. I can't believe it's been 400 episodes already. Blows my mind. In this episode, I have a (creepy) mystery question that I share, and I also go through some rapid fire questions from the Hardcore Self Help Facebook group.

A special shout out to everyone who has been with me from the start. Here is to the next 100 episodes! 

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full transcript at http://duffthepsych.com/episode400

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Feeling proud of yourself for 2024 so far? Take time to celebrate your wins and make adjustments. Therapy is a great tool for setting goals, and BetterHelp offers convenient, online sessions to fit your schedule. Just fill out a brief questionnaire to get matched with a licensed therapist and switch anytime at no extra cost. Visit betterhelp.com/duff for 10% off your first month.

May 31, 2024

Hello, friends!

In today’s episode, we tackle two profound listener questions that may resonate with many of you:

Navigating Dating with a Stutter: A 38-year-old listener shares their struggles with stuttering, particularly how it impacts their dating life. They often need months to work up the courage to ask someone out and lose confidence if they stutter while doing so. We explore the nature of stuttering, its psychological impacts, and offer practical advice on managing anxiety, building self-confidence, and embracing one's uniqueness in social contexts. 

Overcoming Self-Harm Scars and Building Confidence: Another listener, who self-harmed from ages 12 to 15, describes the ongoing shame they feel about their visible scars, which has affected their dating life and social activities. They seek advice on how to overcome this fear and become more open about their past. We discuss strategies for self-acceptance, the importance of vulnerability, and ways to reframe scars as symbols of resilience and survival.

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode399

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May 24, 2024

Hello, friends!

In today’s episode, we tackle three insightful listener questions that many of you might relate to:

Choosing Not to Have Biological Children Due to Mental Illness: A listener shares their decision to not have biological children to avoid passing on their mental health struggles. They feel confident in this choice but encounter surprise and judgment from others. We discuss the validity of their decision, the heritability of mental health conditions, and the importance of respecting personal choices.

Navigating Barriers to Inpatient Mental Health Treatment: Another listener is considering inpatient treatment but faces significant logistical and financial barriers. We explore the challenges of dealing with insurance, paperwork, and managing life responsibilities during treatment. Suggestions for alternative treatment options like intensive outpatient programs (IOP) and partial-hospitalization programs (PHP) are also discussed.

Addressing Mismatched Sex Drives in a Relationship: A listener in a relationship with differing sex drives seeks advice on how to encourage their partner to address potential low testosterone or other medical issues affecting their libido. We delve into the complexities of communication about sexual needs, potential underlying relationship issues, and strategies for fostering open dialogue and seeking professional help.

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode398.

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May 17, 2024

Hello, friends!

In today’s episode, we dive deep into a listener’s question about finding the right therapy for a variety of complex mental health issues. This 29-year-old woman is struggling with childhood trauma, mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, and relationship issues. She is also seeking guidance on possible autism/ADHD symptoms and needs help navigating the overwhelming array of therapy options available.

We explore the IPA framework (Immediacy, Problem, Approach) to help her and others identify the most suitable types of therapy. Additionally, we discuss the different types of therapists and their qualifications, the importance of cultural competency, and practical tips for finding a good therapist using various resources. This episode is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to start their therapy journey.

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode397


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May 10, 2024
Hello, friends!
 
In today’s episode, we tackle a profound listener question that may resonate with many of you.
A listener who survived a suicide attempt at 13 is considering reaching out to the pediatric psychiatrist who assessed them during their hospitalization. They feel that the presence of medical students during their assessment was inappropriate and impacted their honesty. They're seeking guidance on how to provide feedback and advocate for their younger self.
 
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode396
 
Links:
 
 
 
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Apr 19, 2024
Hello, friends!
 
In today’s episode, we tackle two thought-provoking listener questions that may resonate with many of you:
 
Cymbalta Conundrum: A listener shares their experience with Cymbalta, a medication prescribed for panic disorder. They noticed feeling amazing on days they forgot to take the medication, leading them to wonder if they truly needed it. We explore the concept of conditioned compensatory response, the effects of medication on the body, and the importance of gradual tapering.
 
ADHD Focus Struggles: Another listener struggles with focus and motivation despite trying various medications and strategies. We discuss the complexities of ADHD, the importance of environmental adjustments, and techniques like mindfulness, Pomodoro intervals, and accountability to improve focus and productivity.
 
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode394
 
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Mar 29, 2024

Hello friends!

In today’s episode, we tackle two interesting questions that delve into the heart of mental and emotional challenges many of us face.

First, we explore the complex world of panic disorder through the eyes of a 24-year-old graduate student grappling with severe panic attacks. Their story illuminates the physical and psychological intensity of panic disorder, revealing how it transcends mere stress or anxiety to significantly disrupt daily life. We dissect the cycle of fear and avoidance intrinsic to panic disorder and discuss the critical importance of specialized care and therapy in navigating this condition.

Next, we turn our attention to the challenges faced by caregivers of individuals with dementia resulting from traumatic brain injuries (TBI). One listener shares the struggle of balancing caregiving with personal self-care, seeking resources and support to manage this demanding role. We offer guidance on finding online and in-person resources, emphasize the importance of self-care for caregivers, and encourage seeking professional help to ensure both the caregiver's and the loved one's needs are met.

As always, you can send your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode391.

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Exploring what truly matters to you can be transformative, and therapy can help. BetterHelp provides convenient, online therapy to fit your life. Start with a questionnaire, match with a licensed therapist, and switch anytime. Focus on what makes you happy with BetterHelp. Get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/duff.

Mar 22, 2024

Hello friends! In today’s episode, we tackle two profound listener questions that may resonate with many of you:

  • Dealing with Hurtful Family Comments: A listener is troubled by their mother's deeply hurtful comment, suggesting they have been a source of stress since birth. We explore the emotional impact of such comments, consider the role of health issues in behavior, and discuss strategies for coping and moving forward.

  • Navigating Identity and Therapy: Another listener, a closeted trans man, shares their experience of coming out to their therapist and the mixed responses received. We delve into the importance of understanding and navigating gender identity within therapy, especially in conservative environments, and ponder whether seeking a gender specialist, in addition to their current therapist, might be beneficial.

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode390

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Exploring what truly matters to you can be transformative, and therapy can help. BetterHelp provides convenient, online therapy to fit your life. Start with a questionnaire, match with a licensed therapist, and switch anytime. Focus on what makes you happy with BetterHelp. Get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/duff.

Mar 1, 2024

Hello friends!

In this episode, we delve into a deeply personal and complex question that touches on the lasting impact of past relationships, the nuances of friendship, and the boundaries within a current, happy marriage. A listener shares their experience of not being able to stop thinking about an ex, despite being happily married and having no desire to rekindle a romantic relationship. They discuss the significance of this past relationship during a pivotal time in their life and ponder whether they should attempt to cultivate a friendship or strive to move on completely.

We explore the importance of acknowledging the role this person played in their life, while also considering the potential implications for their current relationship. The conversation includes practical advice on navigating these feelings, communicating with both the spouse and the ex, and setting healthy boundaries. We also discuss the potential for "relationship drift" and the importance of being honest with oneself about the true motivations and possible outcomes of re-establishing contact.

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode387.

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Jan 19, 2024

Hello friends! In today’s episode, we delve into two compelling listener questions that touch on deeply personal experiences and emotional challenges:

Exploring Identity Through Name Change: Our first question comes from a listener who has recently undergone the significant process of legally changing their name, a journey often intertwined with gender identity and personal transformation. We discuss the complexities of introducing this change in a professional setting, especially in environments where such changes might not be widely accepted. We explore strategies for communicating the change, dealing with potential challenges, and staying true to one's identity.

Confronting Emotional Numbness: The second question addresses a concerning experience of emotional numbness, where even significant life events fail to elicit expected emotional reactions. We delve into the concept of anhedonia, its connection to depression, and the possible causes of this emotional disconnection. Practical advice is offered on how to reconnect with emotions, including mindfulness techniques, behavioral activation, and the importance of considering physical health factors and professional help.

As always, your questions and experiences enrich our discussions and bring valuable insights to our community. If there's a question or topic on your mind, don't hesitate to reach out at duffthepsych@gmail.com. For full show notes and more resources, head to http://duffthepsych.com/episode382.

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Jan 12, 2024

Hello friends!

In today's episode, we delve into two compelling listener questions that many of you might find relatable:

Confronting Career Anxiety in Private Practice: A newly licensed listener, transitioning from a non-profit agency to private practice, shares their struggles with the unpredictability of work and income, leading to increased anxiety. They contemplate returning to a full-time job, questioning the future of their career in mental health. We discuss the common challenges faced in different work settings, strategies for managing career uncertainty, and ways to find a fulfilling path in the mental health profession.

Navigating Highway Anxiety with a Unique Twist: Another listener, who enjoys driving but experiences anxiety on long highway trips, seeks advice for their unusual situation. Despite a well-managed health condition and ruling out vision problems, this anxiety poses a significant obstacle, especially for family commitments requiring long travel. We explore potential triggers, the importance of understanding anxiety's impact, and practical tips for gradually overcoming this specific driving anxiety.

As always, your questions are the heartbeat of our show. Feel free to send your thoughts or inquiries to duffthepsych@gmail.com. For full show notes and more insights, visit http://duffthepsych.com/episode381.

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Jan 5, 2024

Hello friends!

In today's enlightening episode, we delve deep into the intricacies of neurotransmitters, specifically dopamine, and their impact on our behavior and mental health. We also touch on trichotillomania and the role of medications like Wellbutrin in treating such conditions.

Demystifying Dopamine and Serotonin: We kick off by addressing a common oversimplification in the world of mental health. Dopamine and serotonin are often reduced to mere 'happiness' and 'reward' chemicals in popular culture. We explore how these neurotransmitters are far more complex and play a variety of roles in our body, from movement and mood regulation to learning and memory.

Understanding Neurotransmitters: What exactly are neurotransmitters like dopamine? We explain their crucial role in brain communication and their diverse functions. We also discuss other key neurotransmitters such as serotonin, acetylcholine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, GABA, and glutamate.

Dopamine's Role Beyond Pleasure: Moving beyond the 'feel-good molecule' tag, we delve into dopamine's involvement in anticipation of rewards, motivation to pursue goals, and its critical role in learning and habit formation.

Impact of Modern Habits: How do activities like scrolling on social media, playing video games, or watching TV series influence our dopamine levels? We discuss how these activities engage our brain's reward system and the concept of negative reinforcement in avoiding stress or emotional discomfort.

Trichotillomania and Dopamine: Addressing a listener's specific concern, we explore trichotillomania, a complex mental health condition involving recurrent hair pulling. We examine the potential roles of dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, genetic factors, and environmental influences in this disorder.

Wellbutrin - A Closer Look: What about medications like Wellbutrin? We clarify how Wellbutrin, or bupropion, an NDRI, differs from other antidepressants and its effectiveness in treating depression, aiding smoking cessation, and its potential implications in treating trichotillomania.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations: We wrap up by emphasizing the importance of seeking professional advice for personalized treatment plans, especially for conditions like trichotillomania, and encourage listeners to keep sending their thoughtful questions and topics.

As always, you can send me your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode380

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Dec 8, 2023

Hello friends!

In Episode 377, we tackle two profound listener questions that shed light on unique mental health and relationship challenges.

Our first discussion revolves around a listener gearing up for couples therapy. They share their apprehension about conveying years of experiences within the confines of therapy sessions. We explore strategies for effective communication, the importance of preparation, and utilizing therapy as a starting point rather than a complete solution. The conversation also touches on the usefulness of additional resources like therapy workbooks and individual therapy in enhancing the couples therapy experience.

The second question comes from a 23-year-old male experiencing derealization, depersonalization, and occasional panic attacks. These symptoms make him feel detached from his environment and himself, as if living in an unreal world. We dive into understanding these phenomena, identifying possible triggers, and discussing various coping methods. These include sensory grounding techniques, mindfulness practices, and the potential roles of therapy and medication in managing these dissociative experiences.

Your questions continue to add depth and insight to our discussions on mental health. If you have any questions or topics you'd like to share, please send them to duffthepsych@gmail.com. For full show notes and additional resources, visit http://duffthepsych.com/episode377.

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Dec 1, 2023

Hello friends!

In today's insightful episode, we delve into two intriguing listener questions that touch upon deeply personal and relatable topics.

First, we explore the lasting impact of growing up without a father. One of our listeners shares their lifelong struggle with the absence of a paternal figure, revealing how it shapes their relationships and fears about parenting. We discuss the complex emotions tied to this experience, including the search for paternal qualities in partners and the challenges it brings. The journey of understanding and healing from such a deep-rooted issue is unpacked, offering perspectives on self-reflection, therapy, and personal growth.

Our second question shifts focus to the challenges of young leadership. A listener in their early 20s, already in a management role, grapples with being taken advantage of due to their age. They seek advice on asserting themselves and managing a team with more life experience. We dive into the nuances of assertive communication, the balance between firmness and collaboration in leadership, and the importance of self-confidence, irrespective of age.

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode376.

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Nov 17, 2023

Hello friends!

In today’s insightful episode, we tackle two profound listener questions that delve into personal struggles and the complexities of therapy in the modern world.

Our first discussion revolves around a listener's internal conflict about undergoing a nose job. They share their long-standing desire for this procedure, influenced by cultural norms and compounded by severe anxiety. We explore the importance of understanding the underlying reasons for wanting cosmetic surgery, the impact of cultural pressures, and strategies for managing anxiety related to such a significant decision.

The second question opens a window into the world of telehealth therapy and the challenges of maintaining privacy in less traditional settings. A listener shares their experience of feeling uneasy about the lack of privacy during their online therapy sessions. This concern leads us to discuss the crucial aspects of privacy in therapy, the legal and clinical implications, and the importance of addressing and resolving such concerns with your therapist.

As always, you can send me questions at duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode375.

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The holiday season can be rough. If you need extra support to get through it, consider trying online therapy with BetterHelp. You can get 10% off your first month at http://betterhelp.com/duff

 

Nov 10, 2023

Hello, friends! I hope you're all managing to keep your spirits up.

In today’s thoughtful episode, we tackle two profound listener questions that may resonate with many of you:

Contemplating Narcissism and Self-Improvement: A listener is troubled by the possibility of being a narcissist, an idea suggested by their ex-partner. They're engaging in therapy and self-help but wrestle with the question: Are they truly non-empathetic or just struggling with poor coping mechanisms? We explore the characteristics of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, the journey of self-awareness, and the importance of recognizing and addressing negative behaviors.

Seeking Purpose Amidst Global Turmoil: Another listener shares their struggle to find the motivation for personal improvement in a world filled with conflict and despair. How can one persist in therapy and self-care when the future seems so uncertain? We discuss the significance of hope, the resilience of humanity, and finding personal value in the face of global challenges.

Your stories and questions are what make this podcast a rich community. If something's on your mind, drop me an email at duffthepsych@gmail.com.

For full show notes, visit http://duffthepsych.com/episode374. Remember, while the podcast can offer guidance, it's not a replacement for professional help.

Stay tuned for more, and take care of yourselves.

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Nov 3, 2023

Hey everyone! Hope you're finding moments of peace amidst the chaos.

Today's episode peels back the layers of anxiety that can really twist our brains into knots. We're responding to a heartfelt question from a listener who's finding themselves in a tangle of overthinking, especially when it comes to new relationships.

Unraveling the Anxiety Knot:

  • We've all been there, so let's talk about overthinking, anxiety, and how they team up to throw us for a loop.
  • I'm rolling out some practical tips that come from both personal battles and professional strategies to help ease that mental gridlock.

Mindfulness: More Than Just Zen:

  • We're distinguishing between kicking back for relaxation and the active practice of mindfulness. It's all about focusing your thoughts, not just deep breathing.
  • I’ll guide you on how to navigate through your brain's maze and dodge those cognitive booby traps.

Self-Compassion: Your Secret Weapon:

  • It’s super important to remember to be gentle with yourself. Struggling with overthinking is common, and it's okay not to have all the answers.
  • Keeping busy can be a good distraction from ruminating thoughts, and sometimes, a little distraction is exactly what we need.
  • Don’t shy away from asking for an outsider's perspective. Friends, family, or a therapist can provide that valuable reality check.

Big Picture Perspective:

  • Keep in mind, this too shall pass. The worries that seem mountainous today are often just pebbles on the path of life.
  • Life's a wild ride, and it's not meant to be spent in a constant state of worry. You're capable, and you've got a whole community here rooting for you.

Got a question you're itching to ask? Drop me a line at duffthepsych@gmail.com. And for a deeper dive into today's topic, check out the detailed show notes over at http://duffthepsych.com/episode373. Stay safe, and see you in the next episode!

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Oct 20, 2023

Hello, friends! I hope everyone is well.

In today's insightful episode, we dive deep into two thought-provoking listener questions that touch on feelings of regret after a relationship and the challenges of adapting to a technology-driven society:

The Complexities of Relationships & BPD

A 27-year-old male grapples with feelings of regret after rekindling a relationship with an ex-partner diagnosed with BPD.

  • We discuss the intricate nature of relationships with individuals diagnosed with BPD, emphasizing understanding, compassion, and communication.
  • Highlighting the importance of self-awareness and personal boundaries when navigating the potential of re-entering a relationship.
  • Shedding light on the challenges of revisiting past connections and the role of personal growth and change.

Navigating a Technology-Driven World

A listener shares their post-pandemic struggles with adapting to a world where mobile phones dominate social interactions.

  • We explore the societal shift towards digital interactions and the challenges of feeling disconnected in an ever-connected world.
  • Addressing feelings of annoyance with public cell phone usage and ways to reframe our perspective for better adaptability.
  • Questioning medical advice and advocating for the importance of therapy as an initial treatment approach.

As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com, and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode371.

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Oct 6, 2023

Episode 369: Navigating Personal Struggles & Motherhood

Hello, friends! I hope everyone is doing well.

In today’s episode, we delve into two deeply personal and powerful listener questions:

1. A 26-year-old woman shares her journey from the depths of a severe depression to her current stable and fulfilling life. Despite her progress, she grapples with anxiety about possibly regressing into her past depressive state. We explore the resilience of overcoming challenges, the changes that occur within us as we grow, and the power of reflection and gratitude in maintaining mental health.

2. A single mother of two confronts the painful reality of potentially repeating the patterns of her own tumultuous childhood. With raw honesty, she reveals her struggles with emotional, mental, and occasional physical abuse towards her children. In response, we discuss the profound challenges of motherhood, the potential for growth and change, and the importance of seeking resources and support.

Resources Mentioned:

For more detailed information and links, please visit the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode369.

As always, if you have questions or topics you’d like discussed on the show, please send them to duffthepsych@gmail.com.

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Sep 29, 2023

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

Sep 8, 2023

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:

Funny Halloween Mental Health Mug Abilify Potion Unique image 1

Aug 25, 2023

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 

Aug 11, 2023

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. 

Jul 28, 2023

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

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