Mental Illness Happy Hour

The author (My Fair Junkie) details her jaw-dropping and often hilarious descent from a nice (but spoiled) Jewish girl from Beverly Hills to shooting coke into her neck, bottoming out on meth and sex and being assigned to a chain gang after threatening her ex-husband with a knife and ultimately having to rebuild her life. She shares on her struggled with self-harm, BDD, depression, anxiety, sex addiction, suicide attempts, psych ward stays, fear of growing up, the danger of relying on her father's money, their complicated relationship and the abandonment by her mother. For more on Amywww.amydresner.com twitter: @AmyDresner IG: @amydresner FB: @amydresnerofficial And buy her book My Fair Junkie This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 This ep is sponsored by Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. Learn more at www.JHSPH.edu/FeelGood This ep is sponsored by Casper mattresses. Get $50 towards select mattresses by going to www.Casper.com/mental and using offer code MENTAL as well. Terms and conditions apply. To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter and Instagram @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The young writer/director (2 Kawaii 4 Comfort) shares about the intersection of people on the autism spectrum (especially Asperger's) and nerd culture especially anime. He opens up about his diagnosis as a child, different therapies his parents tried and what it feels like to be on the spectrum. He talks about a lot of the myths and stereotypes of people on the spectrum and how he has changed from an angry, withdrawn non-verbal child to an adult who is able to function easily in mainstream society (aka neurotypical people). Watch all of the show Luke wrote and co-directed at www.2Kawaii4Comfort.com You can also check out its FB page https://www.facebook.com/2K4Comfort/ Scroll down to see the list of different anime genres Luke put together for people unfamiliar with it. This episode is sponsored by Quip electric toothbrushes. To get your first brush refill for free go to www.GetQuip.com/mental This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter and Instagram @mentalpod FROM LUKE ----------------------- At Paul’s request Here’s a list of some anime if you are interested in getting a better understanding of the form. A lot of these names are well familiar to anime fans, again this is more of a beginner’s primer. I’ve included a link to each one’s IMDB page. For all the die hard anime fans, I’m sorry I couldn’t include more. STANDARD EXAMPLE ANIME: I actually hesitated to include these first in the list because I consider these shows to be examples of what anime typically is. They demonstrate a lot of the tropes and stylistic choices of the medium and while not ‘bad’, but I don’t think they are as interesting as the ones after it. Negima: This is an example of the ‘harem’ anime, where a shy young boy is thrown into a situation where he lives surrounded by nubile women (whacky scenarios ensue, said boy ends up in percarious situations where he witnesses these women undressing). In this case it’s about a boy wizard who reaches as an all girl school but just a look at the intro gives an idea of what you are dealing with. Naruto: The story of a ninja who wants to be the leader of his ninja clan one day. This is an example of a Shonen anime, where the focus is on action, magical powers and building character rivalries and relationships. These shonen anime have long story arcs that can last years or even decades without any sign of resolution IF YOU DON’T THINK YOU’LL LIKE ANIME: Cowboy Bebop: A stylish, laid back Neo-Noir about bounty hunters set in space. This is the one that people who hate anime still say “Except Cowboy Bebop, that show is cool”. Each episode is pretty self contained so you can jump in at any time. Spirited Away: A landmark film from the legendary Studio Ghibli, this film is a bold reimagining of Alice in Wonderland set in a bathhouse in the afterlife. Wonderful story with Memorable cast that people of all ages can enjoy IF YOU’RE READY TO GET A LITTLE WEIRDER:Kino’s Journey: A laid back but philosophically fascinating series about a wanderer name Kino who travels from village to village with their talking motorcycle ‘Hermes’. Each episode plays like a more meditative version of the twilight zone. Paprika: From one of my favorite Directors Satoshi Kon, Paprikia is equal parts scifi thriller and imaginative art film about a scientist who has to stop a terrorist who stole a device that allows them to access people’s dreams. It’s basically the plot of inception but Paprika did it earlier and in my opinion better in every possible way. AKIRA: One of anime’s greatest scifi epics. An exploration of power, scale and psychology with unfortgettable animation and iconic moments of body horror. While violent, it does live up to it’s tagline of ‘Neo Tokyo is about to E-X-P-L-O-D-E’ OKAY, THIS IS REALLY WEIRD BUT AWESOME IF YOU GIVE IT A CHANCE: FLCL: A Coming of Age Story on Steroids. They literally took an entire series animation budget and blew it on 6 incredible hyper paced episodes. Serial Experiments Lain: Dealing with themes of Identity, dissasociation, loss and the internet, this haunting surreal cyberpunk show slowly begins to make sense as the reality of the main character begins to disintergrate. TW: Suicide. Neon Genesis Evangelion: The anime that chaged the game. It asks ‘would you save the world if all it caused you was more pain’. It combines religious imagery, psychological surrealism, angst and giant robots in a way no other show has been able to match. It starts off slow, but the drama and weirdness pick up aroung episode 8. Okay there are still a ton but here are some other n

Marc and Sonja Raciti both served in the military; he as a medic, she as a psychologist. They talk about PTSD myths and the PTSD he struggles with from fearing for his life to seeing unspeakable carnage to having survivor's guilt. She weighs in as his supportive partner, a therapist, and an ex-officer who witnessed and experienced both overt and subtle sexism while she served. They also address how Marc has been able to heal thru exposure therapy and EMDR. Buy Marc and Sonja's book about his battles with PTSD, I Just Want To See Trees:A Journey Thru PTSD This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To experience a free week, go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Use offer code MENTAL This ep is sponsored by HelloFresh meal kit delivery service. For $30 off your first week go to www.HelloFresh.com and use offer code MENTAL30 This ep is sponsored by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. To learn more go to www.JHSPH.edu/FeelGood This ep is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post jobs for FREE go to www.Ziprecruiter.com/mental To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter and Instagram @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a live show recorded in Oakland, the 26 year-old writer (Shitfaced) discusses the loving but strained atmosphere growing up and his teenage years attempting suicide, drinking his way to rehabs and an eating disorder. He shares about making peace with being gay, therapy and the importance of writing and using other emotional tools today to keep him sane. Buy ‘Shitfaced’ on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Shitfaced-Musings-Former-Seamus-Kirst/dp/069282281X Follow Seamus on Twitter and Instagram @SeamusKirst, and ‘like’ his page on Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/seamuspatrickkirst/ This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 This ep is sponsored by Casper sleep products. For $50 off your first mattress go to www.Casper.com/mental and use offer code MENTAL This ep is sponsored by Johns Hopkins School of Public Health. Learn more at www.JHSPH.edu/FeelGood This ep is sponsored by Quip electric toothbrushes. To get your first refill pack free go to www.GetQuip.com/mental To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go towww.mentalpod.com/donate To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter and Instagram @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The award-winning playwright, t.v. writer (Jack Ryan)and author (Devil in Ohio) opens up about feeling abandoned by her father and the effect it has had on how she views herself, her place in it and the conscious decision she has made to become the hero of her own story by dealing with her fears of not being enough or taking chances. She shares about the catharsis of putting dark parts of herself in some of her characters and she and Paul talk about the awful feelings of jealousy or envy towards peers. Photo by Elisabeth Caren. Devil in Ohio available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Daria-Polatin/e/B0762C6B61/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1 Twitter: @DariaPolatin // https://twitter.com/DariaPolatin?lang=en Instagram: @DariaPolatin // https://www.instagram.com/dariapolatin/ Facebook: @dariapolatinauthor // https://www.facebook.com/dariapolatinauthor/ This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 This ep is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/mental This ep is sponsored by Omaha Steaks. Buy the Family Gift Pack for just $49.99 (that's 75% off) go to www.OmahaSteaks.com and use offer code MENTAL This episode is sponsored by the book Memory Rescue. For more info go to www.MemoryRescueBook.com To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping (U.S. Canada and U.K.) with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter and Instagram @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The standup/podcaster (Here We Are podcast) shares about taking unconventional approaches to his battles with depression and hopelessness. He opens up about his kind but very religious and uncommunicative parents and the hometown where things weren't questioned and getting help was considered weak or weird. For more about Shane and his A Good Trip tour go to www.ShaneMauss.com Follow Shane on Twitter at @ShaneComedy Listen to his podcast at www.HereWeArepodcast.com or on Apple Podcasts here This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 This ep is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post job ads for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/mental This ep is sponsored by the book Memory Rescue. For info go to www.MemoryRescueBook.com To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping (U.S. Canada and U.K.) with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter and Instagram @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Growing up Kelly McCarron's home life wasn't chaotic or abusive but she still struggles mentally and emotionally. After filling out the show's Shame and Secrets survey she reads it aloud, touching on the issues of self-esteem, the aftermath of being sexually assaulted by a co-worker at 18, binge eating, social anxiety, BiPolar, loneliness, being bullied in middle school and giving up on a painful relationship with a sibling. Follow Kelly on YouTube Check out her standup on Open Comedy Follow her on Twitter @KellyBMcCarron and on her Facebook Page This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 This ep is sponsored by the Family Ghosts podcast as well as The Hilarious World of Depression. This ep is sponsored by Quip electric toothbrushes. To get your first brush refill pack free at www.GetQuip.com/mental This ep is sponsored by the book Memory Rescue. Purchase it at www.MemoryRescueBook.com To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping (U.S. Canada and U.K.) with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter and Instagram @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

30 year-old Mary M. left America for Europe to escape not only an American culture that was wearing on her but a family where she was tired of being the scapegoat to her golden-child brother. An all-too-common scenario where her parents can only seem to support her financially but not emotionally. She discusses the prejudice she experiences as a queer woman of color, what she has learned by having a fiancee who is a trans man and the subtle politics of skin color within the black community. Other topics: when well meaning but narcissistic parents focus too much on molding their child out of fear rather than listening to what their child wants and the excessive political correctness that she believes is making true communication more difficult between people who need to hear each other, NVLD and OCD. This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To experience a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental This ep is sponsored by HelloFresh meal kit delivery service. For $30 off your first week of meals go to www.HelloFresh.com and use offer code MENTAL30 This ep is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/mental To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter and Instagram @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Panic attacks, agoraphobia, anxiety and depression had brought Sam to a very dark place a few years ago and he decided he needed help. Bit by bit he began to see how his childhood and negative self-beliefs had to be re-examined. A new clarity on the dysfunction in his family (a disinterested workaholic dad and a controlling, angry mother) gave him the hope to began protecting himself from the pain of having them in his life. A great episode on self-care, cutting contact with parents, re-parenting ourselves and the importance of humor and pursuing our dreams and being our authentic selves even if it means disappointing others. Sam's Website: https://www.sisyphusbrewing.com/ NAMI MN: http://www.namihelps.org/ This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 This ep is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post job ads for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/mental This ep is sponsored by Audible. To start your free trial go to www.Audible.com/Esther To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter and Instagram @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 32 year-old poet, mental health advocate and daughter of a Nigerian immigrant father and Brooklyn mother opens up to Paul about her emotional and mental turnaround after years of feeling suicidal and several times attempting it. She details the ways her depression, disconnection and fear of taking off her "mask" as the perfect, popular girl played in leading her to believe it was a good idea. She and Paul discuss possible ways loved ones can reach out to someone who is talking about suicide as well as how the person who is in pain can find help and potentially hope. Her relationship with her mother, who is a doctor, is a great example of how someone in the helping profession can still learn ways to communicate with and love someone who is hurting. Follow Kelechi athttps://kelechiubozoh.wordpress.com/https://twitter.com/kubozoh Check out the documentary she appears in called The S Word The book about covert incest that Paul mentioned is called Silently Seduced. This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 This ep is sponsored by HelloFresh meal kit delivery service. For $30 off your first week of meals go to www.HelloFresh and use promo code MENTAL 30 This ep is sponsored by Quip Electric Toothbrush. To get your first refill pack free with the purchase of a toothbrush go to www.GetQuip.com/mental To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter and Instagram @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Paul's longtime friend, standup (Letterman) and actor (Everybody Loves Raymond) shares about his struggles with OCD, ADD and feeling the need to control people's opinions about his behavior even after lashing out at someone. He talks about his childhood and the negative self-beliefs and self-hatred that he's now understanding have been driving his behaviors and fears. For more on Andy go to www.AndyKindler.comwww.Facebook.com/AndyKindler or www.Twitter.com/AndyKindler This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 This ep is sponsored by RXBar protein bars. For 25% off your first purchase go to www.RXBar.com/mental and use offer code MENTAL This ep is sponsored by Glynn Washington's new podcast about cults entitled Heaven's Gate. It can be found in Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter and Instagram @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The mortician, TED Talk speaker and author of Smoke Gets In Your Eyes, talks about her childhood OCD and fascination with death as a result of witnessing a tragedy, how she'd like to see the American funeral industry change and how death is viewed/embraced around the world via a read excerpt from her new book From Here To Eternity: Traveling the World To Find The Good Death. Follow Caitlin on Instagram @TheGoodDeath Follow Caitlin on Twitter @TheGoodDeath Check out her website www.CaitlinDoughty.com Buy her new book From Here to Etnernity: Traveling the World To Find The Good Death This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 This ep is sponsored by Hello Fresh meal kit delivery service. For $30 off your first week of deliveries go to www.HelloFresh.com and use offer code MENTAL30 This ep is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/mental If you live in the Twin Cities come see a live taping of the podcast in the afternoon and a comedy show that night at Sisyphus Brewery (with Paul as the emcee) Sat Oct 14th. Click here for tix or info. To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland Follow Paul on Twitter @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The comedian, co-author of He's Just Not That Into You and longtime friend of Paul drops by to lighten his day up. They laugh at their fears, loves and thoughts about mortality and getting older. Check out Greg's PODCAN podcast network Here is the episode with Paul that he talked about Follow him on Twitter @GregoryBehrendt Check out his website http://www.gregorybehrendt.com/ Visit his Facebook Page This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 To buy tickets to LAPodfest Oct 6-8 (we're taping Oct 8th 4pm) at the Biltmore Hotel in downtown LA go to www.LAPodfest.com If you live in the Twin Cities come see a live taping of the podcast in the afternoon and a comedy show that night at Sisyphus Brewery (with Paul as the emcee) Sat Oct 14th. Click here for tix or info. To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Specializing in treating clients whose self-judgement of their thoughts results in obsession and compulsions, Kimberley sits down with Paul and talks about the different forms OCD can take and how to treat it or support someone you love without enabling their compulsions. She and Paul also play a game she plays with clients called "One Up" where they try to outdo each other in sharing "disgusting" things that pop into their brains to show we all have thoughts pop into our heads that make us uncomfortable and laughing about it instead of judging it is the healthy response. Be forewarned, some of the stuff they share might be considered offensive or too intense for some listeners. Links and resources mentioned by Kimberley. KQ links: Her podcast: Podcast Your Anxiety Toolkit Website: kimberleyquinlan-lmft.com Her Facebook: Her Instagram Other links: Best website and org to help get info and resources Iocdf.org Best book for a family member with OCD Best book to explain Intrusive thoughts/OCD This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 This ep is sponsored by HelloFresh meal delivery. To get $30 off your first week go to www.HelloFresh.com and use offer code MENTAL30 This ep is sponsored by Audible. For a 30 day trial and free audiobook go to www.Audible.com/mental To buy tickets to LAPodfest Oct 6-8 (we're taping Oct 8th 4pm) at the Biltmore Hotel in downtown LA or to live stream it go to www.LAPodfest.com If you live in the Twin Cities come see a live taping of the podcast in the afternoon and a comedy show that night at Sisyphus Brewery (with Paul as the emcee) Sat Oct 14th. Click here for tix or info. To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Paul's support group friend Meredith opens up about being raised by parents who lacked a sense of privacy or sexual boundaries; being sexualized by her father, mother (who has a long history of "accidentally" showing her vagina) and step-mother in covert but damaging ways, being comfortable giving help but not taking it or asking for it; being a perfectionist, self-harm, being attracted to emotionally unavailable men ( #loveaddiction ) and being on both ends of manipulative/coercive sexual experiences. She also talks about the ways that therapy, support groups and mindfulness have helped her with these issues. This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 This ep is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/mental To buy tickets to LAPodfest Oct 6-8 (we're taping Oct 8th 4pm) at the Biltmore Hotel in downtown LA or to live stream it go to www.LAPodfest.com If you live in the Twin Cities come see a live taping of the podcast in the afternoon and a comedy show that night at Sisyphus Brewery (with Paul as the emcee) Sat Oct 14th. Click here for tix or info. To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Raised in financial privilege but emotional poverty, the actor/writer/standup reflects on her "don't give a fuck" eating disorder, drug and alcohol years trying to stuff the real feelings of abandonment, not being good enough, anxiety, anger and feeling invisible especially in comparison to her golden-child brother. She gets honest about the "self-centered demon inside me" that drove her actions until sobering up almost 20 years ago and learning to deal with her insecurities, fears and anger by connecting to trusted people in support groups and trying to be of service. Check out her great web series www.BitterHomesandGardens.com and her website www.FieldingEdlow.com This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18 This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post job ads for FREE go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/mental To take the survey Paul mentioned on the podcast (to help out a graduate student doing a thesis on how this podcast helps people) click here. To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod For tix or info for the live podcast appearance Oct 14 in Minneapolis at Sisyphus Brewery click here Catch the podcast live at LAPodfest Oct 6-8. To learn more go to www.LAPodfest.com If you live in the Twin Cities come see a live taping of the podcast in the afternoon and a comedy show that night (with Paul as the emcee) Sat Oct 14th. More details to follow. To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The actor/writer/comedian known for the Netflix show Love, the movie Inglourious Basterds and IFC's Comedy Bang! Bang! opens up about his battles with anxiety, OCD, taking on other people's emotions, people pleasing, wanting attention, shame, fear of letting people down and the role vulnerability and therapy have played in him finding emotional stability and peace. Follow Paul on Twitter @PaulRust Follow Paul on Instagram @PaulRust This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18 This episode is sponsored by HelloFresh. To get $30 off your first week of meals go to www.HelloFresh.com and use offer code MENTAL30 To take the survey Paul mentioned on the podcast (to help out a graduate student doing a thesis on how this podcast helps people) click here. To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod Catch the podcast live at LAPodfest Oct 6-8. To learn more go to www.LAPodfest.com If you live in the Twin Cities come see a live taping of the podcast in the afternoon and a comedy show that night (with Paul as the emcee) Sat Oct 14th. More details to follow. To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The author (Every Moment of a Fall: Recovery Thru EMDR Therapy) opens up in front of a live audience in Oakland about the years she abused herself through bad relationships, booze and sex before therapy and EMDR helped her confront her true feelings about her predatory father, passive mother, abusive step-father and the plane crash she survived as a 16 year-old. Visit Carol's website www.Carol-E-Miller.com Buy her book Every Moment of a Fall: Recovery Thru EMDR Therapy This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18 This episode is sponsored by Warby Parker Glasses. To try some on free at home go to www.WarbyParker.com/mental This episode is sponsored by the men's personal clothes styling service Bombfell To get $25 off your first purchase go to www.Bombfell.com/mental To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod Catch the podcast live at LAPodfest Oct 6-8. To learn more go to www.LAPodfest.com To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Paul's support group friend shares about recovery and battles with binge-eating, shame, compulsive exercise, not knowing what he looks like, porn addiction, love addiction, fear of leaving relationships, feeling like he "is enough", growing up in a family where one sibling takes up all the parents' attention and energy, surviving the suicide of his brother and the huge impact learning to be vulnerable has had on his healing and life in general. Find out more about Matt at: Youtube: www.youtube.com/meetmattshepherd Instagram: www.instagram.com/meetmattshep Twitter: www.twitter.com/meetmattshep website: www.meetmattshep.com This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18 To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod Catch the podcast live at LAPodfest Oct 6-8. To learn more go to www.LAPodfest.com To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

YouTube personality Sarah Sterling is 26 and was obsessed with Harry Potter (and Disney) since day one. At a convention she met a singer who captivated her. He was 24 and she was 16. Looking back, she sees it as statutory rape and is processing that. What's possibly even harder to process for her is that she still hasn't told her overly-protective easily-overreactive mom. Sarah talks about how she has always felt the need to protect her mom from information that would set off her anxiety and the dynamics of having a parent that loves her but sometimes just doesn't understand her or accept her as an adult. For more about Sarah visit: Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/sarahsterling_ YouTube- http://www.youtube.com/sarahsterling Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/sarahgsterling This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18 To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod Catch the podcast live at LAPodfest Oct 6-8. To learn more go to www.LAPodfest.com To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Louise (a pseudonym) shares about the moment in her otherwise mostly happy childhood that things changed. She shares about the abuse at a posh Harry-Potteresque school when she was six by a headmaster who walked the dark halls with a torch; her mom's drinking, letting go of childhood shame, fear of conflict, how parents can support an abused child, when kids sexually abuse other kids, inner child work, Britain's NHS, and trying to cope with past trauma thru drugs and sex. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18 This episode is sponsored by Casper Mattresses. To learn more go to www.Casper.com/mental Listeners can use offer code MENTAL To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul like the upcoming raffle for a free hotel, lunch with Paul, weekend passes for two and front row seats for the MIHH taping at LAPodfest Oct 6-8) go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod Monthly donors pick a number between 1 and 1000. The closest guess wins the hotel and weekend passes (does not include airfare). Contest ends Aug 16th. Monthly donors get 1 guess for each $5 amount they donate per month. So a 15/month donor would get 3 guesses etc. Patreon subscribers submit your guesses through the Patreon site, PayPal subscribers email Paul thru the mentalpod.com website. To learn more about LAPodfest go to www.LAPodfest.com To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why do some people enjoy physical pain or become aroused by it? For Kal, the discovery came with a lot of complications; he was a young boy and it was at the hands of a powerful and sadistic pedophile Rabbi (Heshy Brier) who is now a fugitive living in Israel. Kal shares about his years of self-destruction and bottoming out before eventually getting sober and starting the process of healing and advocating for other survivors. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try a week for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18. This episode is sponsored by BlueApron. To get your first 3 meals free with FREE delivery, go to www.BlueApron.com/mental To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul like the upcoming raffle for a free hotel at LAPodfest Oct 6-8) go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To learn more about LAPodfest go to www.LAPodfest.com To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Imagine getting gay hate mail from your own family. Or finding a letter where your parents talk about you in a way that confirms your worst fears. How does Bipolar 2 compare to having something like cancer? Comedian and author (How To Be Depressed: A Guide) Dana Eagle opens up about being a lonely kid in the 80s whose parents couldn't relate to her perhaps b/c her dad was alcoholic or her mom was thriving in her corporate job. Or is it genetic? Paul and Dana talk about art, comedy, shame, money, puberty, homophobia, abandonment, moving and apes! Buy Dana's book How To Be Depressed: A Guide Visit her websites www.DanaEagle.comhttp://howtobedepressed.comhttps://www.facebook.com/DanaEagleComedy/https://twitter.com/DanaEagleTweetshttps://www.instagram.com/danaeagle/ This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18 This episode is sponsored by Bombas socks. For 20% off your first purchase go to www.Bombas.com/mental The podcast is doing live recordings Aug 2 & 3 in Oakland. For details and tickets go to www.eastbayexpress.com/mental To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul like the upcoming raffle for a free hotel at LAPodfest Oct 6-8) go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To learn more about LAPodfest go to www.LAPodfest.com To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

He's authored Grammy-nominated hits for the biggest artists, put out his own albums, written best-selling books on baseball, and directed a documentary on the Beatles. And for as long as he can remember he has struggled with anxiety, panic attacks and feeling disconnected. What happens when you're achieving your dreams but you haven't dealt with the feelings underneath the drive to be recognized? Seth got his masters in clinical psychology. He opens up about his life and his approach to dealing with mental illness -especially depression and anxiety-, making art, raising kids and finding peace through a life lived with authenticity and meaning. For info on or to purchase his book 21 Ways to a Happier Depressionclick here. To see all the books, music, documentaries and art he's done visit Seth's personal website: Seth.com To learn more about him as therapist in Los Angeles visit Seththerapy.com This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18 The podcast is doing live recordings Aug 2 & 3 in Oakland. For details and tickets go to www.eastbayexpress.com/mental To become a monthly donor (and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul like the upcoming raffle for a free hotel at LAPodfest Oct 6-8) go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To learn more about LAPodfest go to www.LAPodfest.com To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland To make a one-time donations via Paypal go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Help the podcast by shopping with our podcast's Amazon link (it doesn't make your product any more expensive - even bookmark it!) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fat-shamed as a child by her mother and classmates, writer-performer Chelsea Frank, now 24, opens up about the complex role food plays in her life. She talks about her struggles with weight, self-hatred, bingeing and restricting, going to "fat camps", life inside an eating disorder rehab and cutting contact with her abusive mother. Follow Chelsea on Twitter @ChelseaSFrank and on Instagram @ChelseaFrank This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18 This episode is sponsored by BoredWalk. an artist-owned and operated graphic apparel company. To get 10% off your first purchase go to www.IloveBoredWalk.com and use offer code MENTAL To become a monthly donor and qualify for bonus content and goodies from Paul (including the upcoming raffle for a free hotel at LAPodfest Oct 6-8) go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To learn more about LAPodfest go to www.LAPodfest.com To help fund Paul's next trip to record international guests, especially in Ireland, go to https://www.gofundme.com/pauls-trip-to-ireland For more ways to support the podcast go to www.mentalpod.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Creative and sensitive, born and raised in 1980's communist East Germany by a dysfunctional family, Anne's abuse was not dramatic, more like death by 1000 cuts. Bearing the brunt of being a first child and resented for her intelligence, she developed BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder) but has always turned the anger inwards, rarely if ever lashing out. She talks about the benefits of learning DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) as well as her struggles with anorexia, bingeing, cutting and being passive aggressive as well as the greater context of her personal battles taking place alongside her country's people fighting for freedom and independence from a regime that shot its own citizens for trying to leave the country. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To experience a week for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire This episode is sponsored by BlueApron. To get your first 3 meals free with free shipping go to www.BlueApron.com/mental This episode is sponsored by Bombas socks. To get 20% off go to www.Bombas.com/mental To help finance Paul's next trip to record international guests consider contributing to its GoFundMe page. Consider becoming a monthly donor to the podcast (and get occasional bonus content from Paul) www.Patreon.com/mentalpod To make a one-time PayPal donation go to www.mentalpod.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What goes on in someone when they're jealous, possessive, obsessive or need to create drama? Mila was born into a family where her parents "couldn't live with/couldn't live without each other" and she found herself as an adult becoming like them, She also began snooping on her partners and engaging in online and in-person affairs despite knowing better and wanting to stop but unable to leave her cold and uninterested husband. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a week for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18. This episode is sponsored by Audible's Binge Listening Event which lasts until June 28. Get $50 off the price of an annual membership as well. www.Audible.com/binge Help Paul keep this podcast going. It's not possible without donations and help from listeners like you. You can help by: Becoming a one-time (PayPal) or monthly (Patreon) donor for as little as $1/month and qualify for bonus content and personalized stuff from Paul. www.mentalpod.com/donate You can help the podcast by using our Amazon link. Bookmark it. It helps us and doesn't make your items any more expensive. You can also help the podcast by going to our Itunes page and giving us a nice rating. It boosts our visibility. And you can help by spreading the word about the podcast through social media. Every little bit helps he needs it! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

19 year-old JT shares about the crippling anxiety, panic attacks and fear of abandonment he tried to alleviate for years through being hostile and controlling (of course it backfired) before finally deciding to get help. He shares with Paul the painful working-class childhood he had including the death of his parents when he was 8 and embracing his sexuality at 16. He talks about the importance mindfulness has played in helping him find the peace that has allowed him to deal with his anxiety. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To see if it's right for you go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental , fill out a questionnaire and try a free week. Must be 18 This episode is sponsored by ZipRecuiter. To post jobs and find the right person to hire fast, and for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/first To support the podcast through donations of money (one-time or recurring monthly for as little as $1) or frequent flyer miles, go to www.mentalpod.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Christina L (a pseudonym) shares about learning to stand up for herself after an abusive rehab therapist preyed on her as she was getting sober and the confusion of not knowing what he was doing was wrong. She shares about her dysfunctional family, being bullied by boys in middle school, binge eating, and always being the "good child" by never making waves (unlike her sister who got most of the attention through speaking up or getting in trouble) but also never learning how to talk to her parents about her struggles for fear of bringing more chaos into an already unstable home. She also talks about the difficulties in getting mental health treatment in her country, England. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a week for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18. This episode is sponsored by Casper Mattresses. Help the podcast by checking out their highly rated products and to let them know you found out about them from the show go to www.Casper.com/mental and use the code MENTAL at checkout. This episode is sponsored by Audible's Where Should We Begin? Go to www.Audible.com/Esther If you'd like to help out the podcast go to www.mentalpod.com/donate Every little bit helps, whether it's money or frequent flyer miles. Also when you shop through our Amazon page they donate money to our podcast but your product isn't any more expensive. You can also help by going to Itunes and giving us a good rating. It helps bring more people to the show. Also spreading the word through social media helps! Here is our Facebook page and our Twitter Page @mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

LMFT therapist Katie Vernoy and Paul respond to listener questions around the topics of 1) How childhood sexual abuse affects the survivors when they become adults and 2) How can people avoid job or helping burnout. They talk about the specifics of self-care and coping tips, acceptance vs approval, forgiveness, anger, misguided generosity, overprotective parents, people who can't say no and is it possible for a younger child to sexually abuse an older child? Katie's website: www.evolvetothriveconsulting.com Katie's Facebook group for helpers to combat Sacrificial Helping, called The Helping Collaborative: https://www.facebook.com/groups/helpingcollaborative/ Katie's Facebook: Evolve to Thrive by Katie Vernoy Katie's Twitter: Katie Vernoy This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy, to experience a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental This episode is sponsored by Bombas socks. For 20% off your 1st purchase go to www.Bombas.com/mental This episode is sponsored by BlueApron. To get your first 3 meals free (with free shipping) go to www.BlueApron.com/mental This episode is sponsored by the Scott Alan Turner Show. To learn how to better your finances go to www.ScottAlanTurner.com/happy To help out our podcast thru one-time or recurring monthly donations, or donating Frequent Flyer miles go to www.mentalpod.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Australian professional trombonist shares about the mental, emotional and logistical rigors of making a living as a classical musician and some insights into what drove him (and his peers) to such obsessive lengths. We get a peek behind the curtain into the dysfunction and sickness that can fester in such a high-pressure workplace and the poor coping mechanisms used by people who were raised to stuff emotions and just achieve to receive love. We touch on depression, anxiety, therapy, people pleasing, perfectionism, numbness and difficulty with intimacy. Turns out Mozart in the Jungle and Whiplash are not that far off. Check out Ben's podcast Double Depresso https://omny.fm/shows/double-depresso-podcast Ben's Twitter handle is @DepressoPodcast This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To experience a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18 This episode is sponsored by the Scott Alan Turner podcast. For a free audiobook and to hear the strategies he used to achieve financial independence and how he learned to handle and save money, go to www.ScottAlanTurner.com/happy This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter To post jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/first To become a monthly donor (for as little as $1/month) and get free bonus content from Paul go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rhonda says "It took me 20 years to get thru that day" as she opens up about the event that changed her life forever when she was 14 years old. She talks about how it changed her view of God, herself and the world around her, sending her on a path or self-destruction she barely survived until finally dealing with the pain and anger, eventually healing and finding her life's purpose. Follow Rhonda on twitter @RhondaBritten Check out her websites for the course she mentioned www.fearlessliving.org/risk www.LifeCoachCertificationProgram.com and her books https://fearlessliving.org/books/ This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To get a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental This episode is sponsored by Audible and their new audio program Where Should We Begin? To check it out go to www.Audible.com/esther (Audible & Amazon Prime members listen for free) This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/first To become a recurring monthly donor to the podcast (and get free things from Paul like Paul's video Tribute to Herbert go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod and sign up for as little as $1/month. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Feinblatt shares her experience as a therapist in working with co-dependent clients; how is co-dependency defined, what are some characteristics and how can it be treated or managed? She also shares about the importance of codependents learning about setting, enforcing and respecting boundaries. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To experience a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental In addition to her private practice Dr. Feinblatt also works at Westside Treatment, an intensive outpatient program for addiction & mental illness. Dr Feinblatt (who is also a BetterHelp therapist) can be reached at: www.drnataliefeinblatt.comhttps://www.instagram.com/drnatalief/https://twitter.com/DrNatalieFhttps://www.facebook.com/drnataliefhttps://www.betterhelp.com/natalie-feinblatt/ Consider helping out the show by making a donation. Either one-time, recurring monthly (you get freebies from Paul) or by donating frequent flyer miles. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rarely do we talk about the spouse of someone battling a serious mental illness. Mark and Giulia had never heard of Bipolar I with psychosis until she broke from reality well into their marriage. Taped in front of an audience in Oakland, they bare their souls about the pain and confusion of her treatment and Mark realizing how much help spouses also need. Check out Mark's new book My Lovely Wife in the Psych Ward Visit his website www.MarkLukach.com This episode is sponsored by Blue Apron. To get your first 3 meals free with free delivery go to www.BlueApron.com/mental This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To experience a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Consider donating to the podcast with either a one-time donation, a recurring monthly donation (with free rewards) or donating frequent flyer miles. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Paul's support group friend has led an astoundingly painful life especially in regard to his mother (schizophrenia, depression), father (workaholic, hoarder), and sister (drug addict). He describes his descent into drugs (crack), emotionally damaged women and violence before finding the key to understanding his behavior. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. To see if online counseling is right for you go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and experience a free week. Must be 18. This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post jobs for free to go www.ZipRecruiter.com/first This episode is sponsored by Audible. To start a free trial or just see their catalog of audiobooks go to www.Audible.com/mental Support the podcast by becoming a one-time donor, a monthly donor or use when shopping at Amazon, enter using our Amazon link so they give us some money (at no cost to you). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The comedian/storyteller (The Moth) shares about her whirlwind 86 day romance that led to a Vegas wedding to a man who soon turned into a man she didn't recognize, leaving her in fear for her life. Jenna talks about her experience escaping from domestic violence and stalking, especially how family and friends reacted in terms of supporting her (or not). She also shares about having to cut her mercurial, often emotionally abusive mother out of her life and the freedom she feels in learning how to stick up for herself even if it means disappointing someone. Links for Jenna: instagram: jennatullsbrister twitter: @jennabrister website: www.jennabrister.com This episodes is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To see if it's right for you and to experience a week free, go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental This episode is sponsored by Adam and Eve. To get 50% off an item, free shipping plus some free gifts go to www.AdamandEve.com and use offer code MENTAL This episode is sponsored by StampsDotCom. For a 4 week trial including a digital scale and stamps go to www.Stamps.com, click on the radio mic at the top of the page and enter offer code MENTAL This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post your jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/first To become a monthly donor for as little as $1/month go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod and qualify for free stuff from Paul including bonus episodes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The comedic writer/performer and mental health advocate who started www.projecturok.org shares about the tremendous support she received from her family when depression anxiety and OCD had her close to suicide by age 10, and even more despondent from 15-17. Her story is a great example of parental support, the power of coping skills, and proof that even people from safe supportive homes with no trauma in their lives can suffer from mental illness because the issue is often one of chemical imbalance. Follow Jenny on Twitter @JennyJaffe and @JennyJaffe on Instagram Check out her Facebook page www.facebook.com/jennyjaffe Visit her website www.theJennyJaffe.com And of course check out www.ProjectUROK.org This ep is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To try it and get a week for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental To support the podcast consider becoming a one-time or recurring monthly donor or donating frequent flyer miles. It can be done at www.mentalpod.com/donate Monthly donors using Patreon can begin for as little as $1/month and qualify for occasional free stuff from Paul, like mini-episodes and more. To sign up go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod Another way to support the show is to give it a nice review and rating at iTunes or spread the word through social media. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For most of his life Mike has been wracked with shame and self-hatred, convinced he was the worst person ever and fantasizing about suicide when he was hospitalized at 15. He and Paul talk about where his self-hate may come from as well as his ADHD, emotionally sterile and achievement-focused childhood, body dysmorphia, cross-dressing, kink as a submissive male, and how he finally summoned the courage and self-love to end an abusive friendship. Mike is a great example of someone learning to embrace his uniqueness instead of hating and shaming himself for it. Follow Mike on Twitter/Instagram: @bizmichael Check out his books: At Least You're Not These Monsters and All The Feelings This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp To try a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire so you can be paired with a licensed counselor. This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post your jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/first To support the podcast consider becoming a monthly donor via Patreon for as little as $1/month (and get rewards for free like donor-only mini eps where Paul reads responses from the donor-only survey) Go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod A great way to help the podcast is to donate frequent flyer miles. For details on how to do it go to. www.Mentalpod.com/donate and scroll down to the Frequent Flyer Miles section. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It wasn't until she began to literally pull chunks of her hair out she knew she might be battling something out of her control; postpartum depression. She talks about her battles with cyclical depression starting at an early age, being an only child with depressed, anxious and angry parents, not feeling seen or heard and being a high-bottom alcoholic who finally sobered up instead of self-medicating. She also touches on her body issues and how it was exacerbated during her few years as a model. Thanks to Accurate Secretarial & @WebCaptioning 4 donating their transcribing services. They're so dependable! This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. To see if online counseling is right for you, and to get your first week free, go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. Must be 18 or older. This episode is sponsored by BlueApron. To get your first 3 meals free with free shipping go to www.BlueApron.com/mental Support the podcast and get free, donor-only stuff from Paul by becoming a monthly donor -starting for as little as $1 a month- go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod It really helps! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How does a family deal with its secrets? The PhD opens up about the inter-generational rage brewing beneath the surface of her extended family and the difficulty in trying to cope when favorites are played, a mother feels jealous of her daughter, trauma isn't discussed, emotions are stuffed and through depression a smile is mustered for the unsuspecting outside world. Patricia can be reached at her website www.PatriciaMcKee.com and on Twitter @Patricia_McKee This episode is sponsored by Stamps.com For a free 4 week trial including postage and a digital scale, go to www.Stamps.com, click on the Radio Microphone at the top of the homepage and type in offer code MENTAL This episode is sponsored by Young Health's probiotic Probimune. For your 1st bottle free go to www.Probimune.com and use offer code MENTAL This episode is sponsored by Audible audiobooks. For a free trial go to www.Audible.com/mental This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To get your first week free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be over 18. To get rewards from Paul, like donor-only mini-episodes or personal videos & pictures support the podcast with a recurring monthly donation starting for as little as $1/month, go to www.Patreon.com/mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 29 year-old trans woman dispels myths about what it means to be trans, including those she used to believe. She shares about hormone therapy, gender reassignment surgery, the prejudice and stigma of "passing", feeling dysphoric growing up, coming out in her Indiana hometown and her upbringing by an overprotective mother, an absent father, an alcoholic and emotionally abusive stepfather. Follow Olivia on Twitter @hitherehaidar Follow her on Instagram @ohaidarling Follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ohaidarling This episode is sponsored by Young Health's probiotic Probimune. To get your first bottle free (plus $6.75 shipping) go to www.probimune.com and use offer code MENTAL This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To get your first week free, go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 or older. This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/first Support the podcast by becoming a monthly donor for as little as $1 a month. Get free rewards from Paul. www.Patreon.com/mentalpod Check out Earbuds, the great documentary about the power of podcasting featuring podcasters like Paul and many of his former guests/friends/fellow podcasters. Stream or buy DVD at www.comedyfilmnerds.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura J. shares about contracting herpes by being date-raped and how she has navigated managing it logistically, sexually and emotionally with partners, including her husband. She was raised in an emotionally cold home by a psychiatrist father and image-obsessed mother. Her mother's response when Laura would say "I love you" has only ever been "thank you". Laura shares about having Bipolar 2, codependency, fear of intimacy, occasional paranoia, an eating disorder (compulsive eating), multiple stays in psych hospitals, an abortion and always being in the shadow of her high-maintenance and unstable sister. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To get your first week free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must be 18 or over. This episode is sponsored by Young Health's probiotic Probimune. To get your first bottle free (plus $6.75 shipping) go to www.probimune.com and use offer code MENTAL This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/first See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Paul's fellow support group friend shares about the huge role fantasy has played in her struggle to accept life; especially her love addiction. She talks about being unable to watch lesbian films in moderation (she is a lesbian) and how the CPTSD from her physical (and emotional) trauma at birth and being raised in an emotionally stifled home (where success was the only thing that mattered) have made intimacy and trust difficult especially with her struggles with low self-esteem. Inspired to help others as she has healed Maia now facilitates workshops and speaks publicly to help others who are also struggling. Check out Maia's website http://www.maiaakiva.com/ Maia's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/maiaakiva/ Maia's Facebook https://www.facebook.com/maiaakiva2 Maia's Twitter https://twitter.com/maiaakiva This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. To get your 1st week of online counseling free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental Must 18 or over. This episode is sponsored by Blue Apron. To see this week's menu or to get your first 3 meals free (with free delivery) go to www.BlueApron.com/mental This episode is sponsored by Young Health's probiotic Probimune To get your first bottle of Probimune free (plus $6.75 shipping) go to www.Probimune.com and use offer code MENTAL at checkout. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The co-host of YouTube's Pauly & Monks show shares about feeling unlovable, not being a good enough partner, trying to always "fix" other people, having to be an adult in his family at nine, learning to equate money with love and being rejected by relatives for being gay. Oh and his Bruce Willis-admiring grandfather shooting his grandmother. Follow Pauly on Twitter @PaulyDavid and Instagram @PaulyDavid1 Check out the Pauly & Monks show on YouTube and on Twitter @PaulyandMonks Visit them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PaulyandMonks/ Check out Pauly's personal YouTube page http://YouTube.com/user/VapidDual This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp.com to try a week of online counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental You must be over 18. This episode is sponsored by Young Health's Probimune. To get your first bottle free (plus $6.75 shipping) go to www.probimune.com and use offer code MENTAL This episode is sponsored by Stamps.com For a special 4 week trial go to www.stamps.com be sure to click on the microphone icon at the top of the page then enter offer code MENTAL Please take this anonymous survey so potential advertisers will see our demographic. Plus you could win a $100 Amazon card. www.podsurvey.com/mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Moth Grand Slam winner, standup and podcaster (Hopefully We Don't Break Up) shares about being raised by Italian immigrant parents who worried a lot and her "high school brain" that still worries about being left out or gossiped about. Follow Giulia on Twitter @GiuliaRozzi Visit her website www.GiuliaRozzi.com Check out her podcast www.HopefullyWeDontBreakup.com Follow her on Instagram www.instagram.com/grozzi This episode is sponsored by Young Health's Probimune. Sign up for automated delivery and get your first bottle free (plus $6.75 shipping). Go to www.Probimune.com and use offer code MENTAL This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. For a free week of online counseling go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental This episode is sponsored by MadisonReed. For 10% off your first color kit plus free shipping, go to www.Madison-Reed.com and use offer code HAPPY This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post your job ads free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/first This episode is sponsored by Zola wedding registry. Receive $50 when you register and use Zola. Go to www.Zola.com/mental For info or tix to the live recording of the podcast in Oakland on Feb 22 & 23 (Wed & Thurs) go to www.EastBayExpress.com/mental Support the podcast by becoming a monthly donor via Patreon (and get free rewards from Paul) www.Patreon.com/mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

35 year-old barista (and listener) Charlynn Schmiedt shares about having misophonia which is a "fight or flight" physical response to certain everyday sounds, such as gum chewing, throat clearing etc. and the complications and misunderstanding that arise out of having to interact with people who don't think it is a "real thing". Charlynn also shares about having an eating disorder in her 20s as well as depression and anxiety. Her husband Patrick sits in to also share what it is like to live with someone with misophonia. Follow Charlynn on Twitter at @OhTheProfanity For tix or info on Paul's Feb 22 & 23 appearances in Oakland go to www.eastbayexpress.com/mental This ep is sponsored by the online counseling provider BetterHelp. To try a week free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire to be matched with a counselor. This ep is sponsored by MadisonReed. For 10% off your first hair color kit and free shipping go to www.Madison-Reed.com and use offer code HAPPY This ep is sponsored by BlueApron. Check out this week's menu and get your first 3 meals free (with free shipping) by going to www.BlueApron.com/mental This ep is sponsored by Casper Mattresses. For $50 towards the purchase of any mattress go to www.CasperMattress.com/mental and use offer code MENTAL Support the podcast by becoming a monthly donor at Patreon (and get free rewards from Paul) www.Patreon.com/mentalpod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The podcaster (RISK!) and sketch actor (The State) talks about learning to "own his weirdness". From being a gay kid in a conservative town to being the black sheep in The State he has battled the paralysis and fear of not being perfect or even good enough. He shares about his attempt at being a prostitute, the 12 year gap between The State ending and him starting Risk! and how he learned to find his authentic voice when he was at his lowest and how he still struggles to act and feel like a grown-up. Follow Kevin on Twitter @TheKevinAllison Check out RISK! at www.risk-show.com or follow on Twitter @RISKshow Check out his classes www.thestorystudio.org For info on Paul's upcoming live podcasts in Oakland Feb 22-23 go to www.eastbayexpress.com/mental To become a monthly supporter of The Mental Illness Happy Hour go to www.patreon.com/mentalpod This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online counseling. To try a free week go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental (you must be at least 18) This episode is sponsored by MadisonReed hair color kits. For 10% off your first kit and free shipping go to www.Madison-Reed.com and use offer code HAPPY This episode is sponsored by MVMT Watches. For 15% off plus free shipping and free returns go to www.MVMTWatches.com/mental This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/first See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The anxious only child of a drunk/rager mom and a passive dad shares about her family's combination of material wealth and emotional ignorance/poverty. She talks about her fear of "just being" instead of always "doing", including triathlons & rock climbing, her ongoing battles with disordered eating -especially binging- , her all-or-nothing thinking and struggles with intimacy while being married and having a family. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp online therapy. To learn more (and get your first week free) go to www.betterhelp.com/mental This episode is sponsored by MadisonReed. For 10% your first hair color kit plus free shipping go to www.Madison-Reed.com and use offer code HAPPY This episode is sponsored by Movement Watches. Get 15% off today (with free shipping and free returns) by going to www.MVMTWatches.com/mental This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter. To post jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/first Support the podcast by becoming a monthly donor (for as little as $1/month and get rewards from Paul) at Patreon. www.patreon.com/mentalpod For info on Paul's upcoming live podcast shows in the Bay Area Feb 22 & Feb 23 go to www.eastbayexpress.com/mental See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 40 year-old public administrator talks about "losing her humanity" being assigned to work on a criminal defense unit on behalf of sexually violent predators and the anxiety, panic and breakdowns that followed. She also talks about her chaotic and abusive upbringing which included her father molesting her brother, domestic violence and her coping by becoming a rescuer. This episode is sponsored by the online therapy provider BetterHelp.com To try out a week of counseling for free go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental, fill out the questionnaire and get matched with a counselor, to see if it's right for you. This episode is sponsored by the one-stop wedding registry Zola. Receive $50 when you register and use Zola. Go to www.Zola.com/mental for details. This episode is sponsored by MadisonReed. For 10% off your first hair color kit (plus free shipping) go to www.Madison-Reed.com and use offer code HAPPY Consider becoming a recurring monthly donor to the podcast (and receive free rewards from Paul) go to www.Patreon.com/mentapod See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The writer and director of Inside Amy Schumer, co-creator of Chapelle's Show and standup comic (3 Mics coming soon on Netflix) talks about being one of ten kids raised by a violent alcoholic father and his struggles today with trusting his feelings and needs and dealing with his anger especially with partners. He also talks about his relationship with Dave Chapelle and the conflicts and emotions he experienced when Dave decided to stop doing the show. Neal's standup special 3 Mics debuts Jan 17th on Netflix Follow Neal on Twitter @NealBrennan This episode is sponsored by the online therapy service BetterHelp For a free week of counseling go to www.BetterHelp.com/mental and fill out a questionnaire. This episode is sponsored by ZipRecruiter To post jobs for free go to www.ZipRecruiter.com/first This episode is sponsored by Madison-Reed For 10% off your first hair color kit (and free shipping) go to www.Madison-Reed.com and use offer code HAPPY This episode is sponsored by BlueApron. To get your first 3 meals free (with free shipping) go to www.BlueApron.com/mental See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.