The Hardcore Self Help Podcast with Duff the Psych Robert Duff, Ph.D.

Hello, listeners! I hope you're taking care of yourselves and finding moments of joy. In today's episode, we deep dive into a comprehensive question from one of our loyal listeners.
This listener shares their journey, from discovering our podcast through a Men's Health article on mental health to now being engrossed in Dr. Becca Levy's book "Breaking the Aging Code." The core of their question revolves around the challenges the aging population faces, particularly concerning mental health. They highlight the troubling fact that the majority of mental health providers do not accept older patients on Medicare and express concerns about receiving appropriate care as they age, especially without having a family advocate by their side.
Our discussion touches upon the age bias prevalent in the medical community and the importance of proactive health measures, both mentally and physically. We delve into the effects of cardiovascular health on cognitive abilities, the significance of continuous learning and social interactions, and the role of stress in aging. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of advocating for oneself, understanding the intricacies of Medicare, and the potential benefits of seeking younger medical practitioners who may have a fresh perspective on care.
Thank you for consistently sharing your thoughtful questions. They add depth and perspective to our conversations. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to address, please reach out to duffthepsych@gmail.com. Don't forget to check out the detailed show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode367.
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This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. If you would like an outlet for your relentless thoughts, try out talking to a licensed psychotherapist entirely online. Head to http://betterhelp.com/duff for 10% off! 

Hello, everyone! I appreciate your attention and hope you are doing well.
In our first segment, we dive into a topic that's close to my heart - the evolution of my own marriage into a non-monogamous, polyamorous relationship. I unravel the intricacies of non-monogamy, elucidate the various terminology surrounding it, and give an insight into my personal journey of 'opening up'. If you're curious about polyamory, its various facets, or simply want to understand what it means to navigate such a relationship, this segment offers a comprehensive overview.
The next question touches upon a sensitive yet universal theme: grief. A listener reaches out, concerned about her partner's impending loss of his beloved cat, Jimmy, who has been a steadfast companion through some of life's most challenging moments. We discuss the profound impact pets have on our lives, the unique grief associated with their loss, and strategies to navigate this emotional terrain, especially when mental health challenges are at play.
As always, your stories and questions provide invaluable insights, making every episode a journey of discovery. If there's a topic or question you'd like addressed in future episodes, please send them to duffthepsych@gmail.com. For a detailed breakdown of today's episode, check out the show notes at http://duffthepsych.com/episode366.
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Hello, all! I hope that you are staying healthy and safe. In this episode, I cover two very interesting questions.
In the first, someone has been through almost every treatment for depression and anxiety under the sun, yet they still struggle. Their therapist suggested that they may be on the autism spectrum and the person is wondering whether it would be useful to get an evaluation. We discuss the potential benefits as well as how to go about finding (and affording) an evaluation.
Next, someone has PTSD from their partner's PTSD reactions. Their partner is a war veteran with multiple brain injuries and the question-asker is wondering how they can stay afloat mentally when their partner does not get help. We talk about ways to avoid codependence, how to establish boundaries, and when to call it quits.
As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode365
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This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Rather than letting your thoughts stay swirling around in your mind, get them out by talking to a licensed therapist. Try BetterHelp today and get 10% off your first month at http://betterhelp.com/duff
Also, don't forget to check out my new shop. I'm putting out new designs all the time including this awesome mug:

Hello, friends! I hope you're treating yourselves well. In this episode, I dive into two compelling listener questions that touch on complex emotional states and mental health diagnoses.
First up, we discuss what it means to be diagnosed with PTSD with "schizophrenic episodes." If you've ever been confused by mental health jargon or diagnoses, this segment will provide some clarity. We'll break down the DSM criteria for PTSD and explore the possibility of psychotic symptoms within the framework of trauma.
Our second question is a deeply emotional one. It's about the sudden disappearance of body dysmorphia and low self-esteem following the death of an abusive parent. Can such a significant life event dramatically shift one's self-image? We'll delve into the complexities of grief, closure, and self-perception in this intriguing discussion.
As always, your engagement keeps this show going. Send your questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in future episodes. For full show notes, head to duffthepsych.com/episode364.

Hello, friends! I hope you are treating yourselves well. In this episode, we dive deep into two thought-provoking listener questions.
Our first discussion revolves around a listener who's grappling with a profound fear of wasps, known as spheksophobia. This phobia has had a significant impact on their quality of life, especially during the summer. We delve into the nature of specific phobias, their prevalence, and debunk some common misconceptions about wasps. Moreover, we explore potential strategies for addressing and managing such fears, emphasizing the role of exposure therapy and the significance of understanding one's fear hierarchy.
The second question opens a window into the world of a couple navigating the challenges of moving in together. One partner has relocated from a cherished home, and both are experiencing the typical growing pains of cohabitation for the first time. We discuss the importance of communication, curiosity, and compromise in this new chapter of their relationship. By establishing routines, rituals, and shared spaces, they can create an environment that feels like home to both, while also setting aside time for individual activities to foster a deeper bond.
Your questions always bring valuable insights to our conversations. If there's a question or topic on your mind, feel free to send it over to duffthepsych@gmail.com. For full show notes, head to http://duffthepsych.com/episode363.
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Hello, everyone! I hope you are doing super well. As always, I really appreciate your attention. A special thank you to everyone that has left feedback for me about the show. Very helpful. In this weeks episode, I tackle the following questions:
Could my symptoms be PMDD and if so, how do I get help? What can I do about my ex that is spreading harmful lies about me? As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode362
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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.
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