Real Mental Health with Dr. Mike Mah

Dr. Mike Mah
  • 5.0 (4)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Welcome to Real Mental Health, the podcast that cuts through the noise and gets real about mental well-being. Hosted by Dr. Mike Mah, a psychiatrist dedicated to breaking down stigma and making mental health knowledge accessible, each episode dives into the issues that matter—from anxiety and depression to relationships, social media’s impact, and the everyday struggles we all face. With expert insights, practical advice, and candid conversations, Real Mental Health is your go-to resource for understanding the mind and navigating life with clarity. No fluff, no gimmicks—just real talk for real people. Tune in and take control of your mental well-being, one episode at a time.

Episodes

  1. Borderline vs. Bipolar: The Misdiagnosis Problem No One Talks About | Dr. Michael Kanell

    11/23/2025

    Borderline vs. Bipolar: The Misdiagnosis Problem No One Talks About | Dr. Michael Kanell

    Borderline Personality Disorder and Bipolar Disorder are two of the most misunderstood — and most misdiagnosed — mental health conditions. In this episode of The Real Mental Health Podcast, psychiatrists Dr. Mike Mah and Dr. Michael Kanell break down the real differences, overlapping symptoms, how misdiagnosis happens, and what effective treatment actually looks like. If you or someone you love struggles with mood swings, emotional instability, or rapid shifts in thinking and behavior, this episode offers a clear, compassion-driven framework for understanding what’s really going on — and why getting the diagnosis right matters. 🔍 What We Cover: • The true differences between Borderline Personality Disorder and Bipolar Disorder • Why these two conditions get confused so often • How mood episodes differ from emotional dysregulation • Effective medications vs. treatments that don’t work • Evidence-based therapies that help (DBT, schema, ACT, psychodynamic, etc.) • What recovery looks like from both disorders • How clinicians actually diagnose these conditions • Compassionate strategies for supporting loved ones 0:00 | Introduction: Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Bipolar Disorder Overlap 1:29 | Defining Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) 4:17 | The Unstable Sense of Self in BPD (and Narcissism) 8:45 | BPD and Fear of Abandonment; DSM-5 Criteria for BPD 10:47 | History of the Term "Borderline" 11:29 | Development of BPD and Childhood Trauma (ACE Scores) 13:28 | Maladaptive Childhood Survival Templates 16:35 | Origin of the Term "Borderline" (Neurotic vs. Psychotic) 21:11 | Defenses in BPD: Splitting and Projection 25:57 | Why BPD Patients Split: Fear and Control 33:29 | Unconscious Nature of Splitting/Projection 37:50 | Projective Identification: Eliciting Feelings in Others 42:44 | Core Fears in BPD: Abandonment vs. Intimacy/Engulfment 48:51 | Negative Urgency and Distress Intolerance in BPD 52:17 | Prognosis for BPD 55:27 | Defining Bipolar Disorder and Manic Episodes 1:04:08 | Historical Overlap between BPD and Bipolar Disorder 1:05:48 | Differentiating BPD Emotional Dysregulation from Bipolar Mood Episodes 1:11:41 | Anxiety and Fear Component in BPD vs. Manic Fearlessness 1:13:00 | Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) vs. Complex PTSD (CPTSD) 1:20:51 | Treatment for BPD: Therapy is Primary 1:22:37 | Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Dialectics 1:29:50 | Other BPD Therapies: Mentalization-Based and Transference-Focused Psychotherapy 1:36:39 | Blocking Projections in Therapy (Countertransference as Gold) 1:46:57 | Medications for BPD and Bipolar Disorder 1:52:50 | Sleep as a Risk Factor for Manic Episodes 1:53:41 | Seroquel (Quetiapine) Dosing and Side Effects 1:56:58 | Lithium and Weight Gain 1:59:21 | Other Antipsychotics (Abilify, Latuda) for BPD 2:04:00 | Differentiating Feature: Anosognosia (Lack of Insight) 2:06:03 | Differentiating Feature: Identity Disturbance and Chronology 2:08:50 | Conclusion and Contact Information Dr. Michael Kanell's Practice: https://www.eospsychiatry.com/ Dr. Mike Mah's Practice: https://www.centurycitypsychiatry.com/ Disclaimer: The content presented in Dr. Mike Mah’s videos is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Dr. Mike Mah’s videos do not establish a doctor-patient relationship and should not be relied upon for personalized medical guidance. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. For inquiries: Media@mahmd.com Track

    2h 9m

  2. 08/23/2025

    Anxiety: Healthy vs. Clinical - Anxiety Disorder Treatments Explained | Dr. Pat Baumgart

    In this episode of Real Mental Health, Dr. Mike Mah and Dr. Pat Baumgart discuss the critical difference between healthy and clinical anxiety. They cover various anxiety disorders, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and panic disorder, and explore their underlying causes and manifestations. The doctors provide a comprehensive overview of evidence-based treatments, focusing on medication and psychotherapy. They also discuss practical, in-the-moment techniques like breathing exercises and mindfulness to manage acute anxiety. 0:00 - Introduction and Defining Anxiety 1:39 - Healthy vs. Clinical Anxiety 10:59 - The Origins and Causes of Anxiety 15:19 - Fear vs. Anxiety 21:57 - Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) 42:54 - Social Anxiety and Agoraphobia 51:01 - Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder 1:02:40 - Other Anxiety-Related Conditions 1:04:48 - Foundational Treatment Modalities 1:07:58 - Medications for Anxiety (SSRIs, SNRIs, etc.) 1:40:48 - In-the-Moment Coping Strategies 1:50:24 - Q&A: Common Questions and Misconceptions #AnxietyTreatment #AnxietyDisorders #MentalHealth #OCD #PanicAttacks Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drmikemah/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drmikemah?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/35HnOFs7mN0ab8eyqhYkrI?si=Az42i1EiQMSvY7WzmShrJA  -------------------------------------------- Disclaimer: The content presented in Dr. Mike Mah’s videos is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Dr. Mike Mah’s videos do not establish a doctor-patient relationship and should not be relied upon for personalized medical guidance. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. #MentalHealth #Medicine #WellBeing #Podcast For inquiries: Media@mahmd.com

    1h 55m
  3. Eating Disorders: Anorexia, Bulimia, & Binge Eating | Sarah Burney

    07/27/2025

    Eating Disorders: Anorexia, Bulimia, & Binge Eating | Sarah Burney

    In this crucial episode of the Real Mental Health podcast, Dr. Mike Mah welcomes certified eating disorder specialist Sarah Burney to shed light on the alarming increase in eating disorder cases. A 2020 Lancet Psychiatry study revealed a doubling of cases from 2000-2018, even before the pandemic hit. Sarah and Dr. Mah provide an in-depth exploration of various eating disorders, including: Defining Eating Disorders: Understanding the key differences between disordered eating and clinical eating disorders. Anorexia Nervosa: A deep dive into restrictive and purging subtypes, underlying thought patterns, and the concept of "egosyntonic" behaviors. Bulimia Nervosa: Exploring the cycle of binging and compensatory behaviors, and how it contrasts with anorexia. Binge Eating Disorder (BED): Dispelling myths and clarifying the diagnostic criteria, including the role of impulsivity and "food noise." ARFID & OSFED: Briefly touching on Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder and Otherwise Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders. Eating Disorder Treatment: Discussing the essential role of a multidisciplinary team (therapists, dieticians, psychiatrists) and the challenges of treatment, especially concerning the perception of weight gain with medication. GLP-1 Agonists (Ozempic, Wegovy): A critical discussion on their potential role in treating binge eating disorder and the dangers of misuse in other eating disorders. Body Positivity Movement: Sarah and Dr. Mah offer a nuanced perspective on its intentions, its impact on self-image, and where it may fall short in addressing severe disordered eating. Social Media's Influence: Examining how unrealistic beauty standards and constant exposure to curated images contribute to body image issues and eating disorders. Parental Guidance: Practical advice for loved ones on how to approach conversations with someone struggling with an eating disorder, emphasizing compassion over judgment. Full Recovery: Can true recovery from an eating disorder be achieved? Sarah shares her expertise and offers hope. Join us for this insightful and compassionate conversation that aims to educate, destigmatize, and offer pathways to healing for those impacted by eating disorders. For more information about Sarah Burney and the Burney Therapy Group, visit www.BurneyTherapyGroup.com. 0:00 Introduction & Defining Eating Disorders 4:25 Anorexia Nervosa: Definition, Psychology & Treatment Challenges 20:19 Ad Read: Century City Psychiatry 20:55 The Science of Eating Disorders & Brain Function 39:50 Bulimia Nervosa: Understanding Binge-Purge Cycles 55:52 Binge Eating Disorder: Diagnosis & Unique Aspects 1:09:00 New & Emerging Treatments (GLP-1s) 1:23:17 Societal Influences: Body Positivity & Social Media 1:35:40 Audience Questions & Final Thoughts on Recovery 1:40:15 Seeking Help & Concluding Remarks #realmentalhealth #eatingdisorders #anorexia #bulimia #bingeeatingdisorder #mentalhealthpodcast #eatingdisorderrecovery #mentalhealth #bodyimage #ozempic

    1h 43m
  4. Autism Spectrum: Diagnosis, Misconceptions & Strengths | Real Mental Health with Dr. Meghan Jain

    07/05/2025

    Autism Spectrum: Diagnosis, Misconceptions & Strengths | Real Mental Health with Dr. Meghan Jain

    In this eye-opening episode of Real Mental Health, Dr. Mike Mah welcomes child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Meghan Jain, an expert in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They dive deep into what autism is, how it's diagnosed and evaluated, and why it's so often missed, especially in women and girls. Dr. Jain clarifies the DSM criteria for autism, explaining social communication differences and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior. You'll learn about masking, sensory sensitivities, and fixated interests, and how these present differently across various populations. The doctors also tackle critical questions: What does an autism evaluation entail for children and adults?What are the latest statistics on autism prevalence, and why are diagnoses increasing?What treatments are available, including medications like guanfacine and Abilify for managing irritability and agitation?How does autism overlap with other conditions like ADHD and social anxiety?Discover the incredible strengths and unique abilities often found in autistic individuals, including the concept of savant syndrome.The episode also explores the neurodiversity movement, challenging the traditional view of autism as a "disorder" and promoting understanding and accommodation.If you or a loved one are navigating an autism diagnosis, or simply want to learn more from trusted experts, this episode provides invaluable, evidence-based information to separate fact from fiction. Key Timestamps: 0:00:00 Introduction & Understanding Autism0:01:00 Meeting Dr. Meghan Jain: A Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Expert0:02:45 What is Autism? DSM Criteria Explained0:05:00 Social Communication & Interaction Deficits0:06:00 Repetitive Behaviors, Interests & Sensory Aspects (Stimming, Echolalia)0:09:30 Diagnosing Autism in Children: Evaluation Process0:13:20 Rising Autism Prevalence: CDC Stats & Less Stigma0:15:00 Autism in Women & Girls: The Phenomenon of Masking0:28:00 Autism Treatment: Medications for Comorbid Conditions (Guanfacine, Abilify)0:41:50 Akathisia: A Key Side Effect of Abilify to Watch For0:42:50 Risk Factors for Autism & Genetic Components0:51:00 Therapies for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ABA, Occupational Therapy, Vocational Training)0:57:30 Autism & ADHD Overlap: Similarities & Differences1:03:00 Autism & Social Anxiety: Understanding the Nuances1:07:00 The Neurodiversity Movement: Celebrating Brain Differences1:13:00 Strengths & "Superpowers" of Autistic Individuals (Savant Syndrome)1:17:00 Why is Autism So Popular on Social Media? (TikTok Misinformation)1:22:00 Audience Questions: Disclosing Autism in Relationships & Work1:32:00 Asperger's Syndrome Explained1:33:00 Fact or Fiction: Common Autism Myths Debunked1:38:00 Autism, Empathy & Alexithymia1:42:00 Finding a Trustworthy Psychiatrist for Autism EvaluationConnect with Ocean Bay Psychiatry: Website: OceanBayPsych.com#AutismSpectrum #Neurodiversity #AutismAwareness #MentalHealth #ChildPsychiatry

    1h 49m
  5. ADHD vs Bipolar: Misdiagnosis, Medication, Truth About Psychiatric Evaluations | Dr. Pat Baumgart

    06/01/2025

    ADHD vs Bipolar: Misdiagnosis, Medication, Truth About Psychiatric Evaluations | Dr. Pat Baumgart

    In Episode 6 of the Real Mental Health podcast, Dr. Mike Mah is joined by psychiatrist Dr. Pat Baumgart to uncover the often-misunderstood realities of diagnosing ADHD and Bipolar Disorder. Together, they break down: The difference between ADHD and Bipolar symptoms Why accurate diagnosis is crucial—and often overlooked The truth about how psychiatric medications are prescribed The role of clinical assessments vs. formal neuropsych testing What it's like working as boots-on-the-ground psychiatrists 🎙 This is a must-watch episode for anyone navigating mental health treatment, wondering if they’ve been misdiagnosed, or seeking clarity on their own psychiatric journey. 🧠 Subscribe for more weekly episodes exploring the real side of mental health from professionals in the field. 00:00 Intro & Guest Introduction   02:00 ADHD vs. Bipolar - Overview   08:00 What is ADHD?   15:00 Diagnosing ADHD Clinically   22:00 Testing & Neuropsych Evaluations   29:00 DSM Criteria & Symptoms   35:00 ADHD in Adults: Real-World Impact   45:00 Bipolar Disorder: Overview   52:00 Differentiating Bipolar from ADHD   1:00:00 Comorbidities & Common Misdiagnoses   1:08:00 Treatment Strategies: ADHD   1:15:00 Treatment Strategies: Bipolar   1:22:00 Medication Considerations   1:29:00 Cannabis, Sleep, and Mental Health   1:36:00 Final Thoughts & Clinical Pearls

    1h 59m
  6. Why You're Not Broken: How to Heal & Build Healthy Relationships | Kevin Nahai | Ep. 5

    04/26/2025

    Why You're Not Broken: How to Heal & Build Healthy Relationships | Kevin Nahai | Ep. 5

    https://www.mahmd.com/ https://www.kevinnahai.com/ In Episode 5 of the Real Mental Health podcast, Dr. Mike Mah sits down with life coach and psychotherapist Kevin Nahai to unpack the myths around mental health, relationships, and emotional healing. From the roots of trauma to navigating romantic dynamics in the age of dating apps, this powerful conversation dives into why people struggle to connect, how our past doesn’t define our future, and the teachable skills that build lasting, secure relationships. Whether you're single, dating, or in a committed partnership, this episode offers the insights you didn't know you needed — rooted in psychology, experience, and deep human empathy. 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:20 What is a Healthy Romantic Relationship?  00:20:25 Self Responsibility  00:24:26 For the Single People  00:25:47 8 Rules to Manage Conflict Effectively  00:41:44 8 Rules Recap  00:45:00 Dating in the Modern World  00:48:20 Low Mariage Rates and Poor Mental Health  01:07:43 Different Attachment Styles  01:24:40 Practical Advice for Singles  01:51:19 Viewer Question 1  02:01:06 Viewer Question 2  02:04:09 Viewer Question 3  #RealMentalHealth #RelationshipAdvice #NobodyListensToKevin #EmotionalHealing #RealMentalHealthPodcast Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drmikemah/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drmikemah?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/35HnOFs7mN0ab8eyqhYkrI?si=Az42i1EiQMSvY7WzmShrJA  -------------------------------------------- Disclaimer: The content presented in Dr. Mike Mah’s videos is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Dr. Mike Mah’s videos do not establish a doctor-patient relationship and should not be relied upon for personalized medical guidance. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. #MentalHealth #Medicine #WellBeing #Podcast For inquiries: Media@mahmd.com

    2h 11m
  7. Concierge Medicine, Testosterone, and NAD+ Supplements Explained | Dr. Daniel Benhuri | Ep. 4

    04/01/2025

    Concierge Medicine, Testosterone, and NAD+ Supplements Explained | Dr. Daniel Benhuri | Ep. 4

    https://www.danielbenhurimd.com/ In this episode of Real Mental Health with Dr. Mike Mah, we sit down with Beverly Hills concierge internal medicine expert Dr. Daniel Benhuri for a wide-ranging conversation on health, hormones, and modern medicine. We break down what concierge medicine really is, and dive into hot topics like: – NAD+ and other trending supplements – Multivitamins: necessary or overhyped? – Diet & Fasting for better health – Understanding testosterone, what causes it to drop, and how to raise it naturally – Libido, PT 141, and what you need to know – The role of GLP-1 agonists and semaglutides in modern weight management Whether you're interested in optimizing your health or just curious about the latest medical trends, this episode is packed with insights from two leading doctors who break it all down in plain language. 00:00:00 Intro 00:04:35 What is Concierge Medicine?  00:15:09 NAD+  00:19:03 Supplements  00:24:32 Diet  00:30:52 Fasting  00:34:38 Testosterone  00:43:47 GLP 1 Agonists  00:57:26 Semiglutide and Alcaholism  01:04:46 What is a Normal Libido?  01:10:20 Viewer Question  01:13:14 How to Contact Dr. Daniel Benhuri  🧠 Subscribe for more honest conversations about real mental and physical health. Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drmikemah/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drmikemah?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/35HnOFs7mN0ab8eyqhYkrI?si=Az42i1EiQMSvY7WzmShrJA  -------------------------------------------- Disclaimer: The content presented in Dr. Mike Mah’s videos is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Dr. Mike Mah’s videos do not establish a doctor-patient relationship and should not be relied upon for personalized medical guidance. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. #MentalHealth #Medicine #WellBeing #Podcast For inquiries: Media@mahmd.com

    1h 14m
  8. ISTDP: The Cutting Edge of Modern Psychotherapy - Dr. Michael Kanell | Ep. 3

    03/01/2025

    ISTDP: The Cutting Edge of Modern Psychotherapy - Dr. Michael Kanell | Ep. 3

    Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) is the powerful and cutting edge modern psychotherapy that uses structured, emotion-focused psychotherapy designed to help individuals overcome psychological distress by addressing unconscious emotional conflicts. It emphasizes an active approach to help patients make accelerated, drastic, and permanent changes in their lives. Today's guest is Dr. Michael Kanell.  A double board certified Psychiatrist specializing in ISTDP.  Listen along as Dr. Kanell and Dr. Mike Mah discuss how and why Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) is so effective.  Delve into this interesting conversation on psychoanalysis, psychodynamics, depression, anxiety, common defenses, and more on this episode of Real Mental Health!Guest: Dr. Michael Kanell - https://www.eospsychiatry.com/#ISTDP#MentalHealthMatters#EmotionalHealing#PsychotherapyTools#HealingThroughFeelingSocials:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drmikemah/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@drmikemah?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcListen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4YZHwIm4VbVmtyV0ApQBjH?si=JztZKqprTzalxrNZO6nVIA --------------------------------------------Disclaimer:The content presented in Dr. Mike Mah’s videos is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Dr. Mike Mah’s videos do not establish a doctor-patient relationship and should not be relied upon for personalized medical guidance. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.#MentalHealth #Medicine #WellBeing #podcast For inquiries:Media@Mahmd.com

    1h 39m
  • 8 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to Real Mental Health, the podcast that cuts through the noise and gets real about mental well-being. Hosted by Dr. Mike Mah, a psychiatrist dedicated to breaking down stigma and making mental health knowledge accessible, each episode dives into the issues that matter—from anxiety and depression to relationships, social media’s impact, and the everyday struggles we all face. With expert insights, practical advice, and candid conversations, Real Mental Health is your go-to resource for understanding the mind and navigating life with clarity. No fluff, no gimmicks—just real talk for real people. Tune in and take control of your mental well-being, one episode at a time.

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