Behind Closed Doors

Alice Atkins
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Behind Closed Doors is a podcast where I share my personal journey of nearly two decades living with chronic pain, mental health struggles, and sleepless nights. It’s a raw, honest conversation about the realities many of us face but rarely talk about openly. The mission behind the podcast is simple, to create connection and understanding. Everyone has a story, and often the hardest battles happen behind closed doors. By sharing mine, I hope to shine a light on those silent struggles, reduce the stigma around chronic illness and mental health, and remind people they’re not alone.

Episodes

  1. AUG 25

    A Slow, Fragile Reclaiming Of Inner Peace

    Episode 6 By the end of 2023, I was drowning in daily headaches, relentless insomnia, and a nervous system in overdrive. I searched endlessly, for doctors, diagnoses, and anything that might fix me. In this episode, I share what those months really looked like: the panic, the desperation, and then the moment where I finally let go of the system I had relied on for too long… and then, the slow, uncertain beginning of something new. Show Notes Insomnia If you're struggling with insomnia or feeling overwhelmed by poor sleep, I want you to know you're not alone. This episode reflects my story, but everyone’s path is different. Below are some gentle, supportive ideas to explore if you're feeling stuck. They’re not prescriptions, just places to start:    Speak to a GP or psychologist with sleep experience   Acknowledge and journal your sleep thoughts, sometimes externalising the  worry helps    Look into Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)    Try nervous system regulation tools like breathwork, vagus nerve exercises or yin yoga    Learn about the mind-body connection through authors like Dr. Sarno, Nicole Sachs or Dr. Gabor Maté Explore sleep-focused resources like “The Sleep Book” by Dr. Guy MeadowsPlease be kind to yourself. This stuff is hard. You’re not alone.  A Note on My Headaches At one point, I was experiencing constant, daily headaches that left me physically and emotionally drained. While they’ve eased recently, possibly due to a combination of nervous system regulation, sleep improvements, and antidepressant medication, it’s still an ongoing journey, and I don’t have all the answers. I’m sharing this part of my story not as a diagnosis, but as a lived experience. Chronic pain and healing can look different for everyone. Just because something has shifted doesn’t mean it wasn’t real, or that it’s "fixed." If you're living with persistent headaches, I see you. You’re not alone, and you’re not imagining it. Daily Persistent Headaches  If you're dealing with persistent daily headaches, I know how exhausting and overwhelming it can be. Below are some gentle, supportive ideas to explore if you’re feeling stuck. These aren’t prescriptions, just places to begin: Speak to your GP or a neurologist to rule out underlying causesKeep a headache journal to track patterns, triggers, and symptom changesLook into specialist headache clinics—some offer holistic or multidisciplinary approachesExplore the link between chronic pain and the nervous system, including central sensitisationTry nervous system regulation tools like gentle yoga, breathwork, or somatic trackingLearn from mind-body practitioners such as Dr. John Sarno, Dr. Howard Schubiner, or Nicole SachsConsider dietary, hormonal, or environmental triggers, with the support of a qualified practitionerAsk about preventative treatments or medications tailored for chronic headache or migraine Please follow Behind Closed Doors on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/behind.closed.doors.podcast/

    22 min

  2. AUG 25

    The Quiet Return

    Episode 7 After everything, years of struggle, heartbreak, searching, and slow healing, this is the chapter where things began to shift. Not in a perfect or final way, but in a quiet, grounded one. In this episode, I reflect on what it means to return to yourself after being lost for so long… and why sometimes, the most powerful progress is the kind no one else can see. Show Notes  If this episode brought up feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, sadness, or emotional fatigue, please know you're not alone. Mental health challenges are deeply human, and support is always available. Here are some gentle steps and resources that might help: Reach out to your GP or a trusted health professional. They can help guide you toward support that feels right for you.Talk to someone you trust a friend, partner, or family member. Saying it out loud can be a powerful first step.Consider therapy. Psychologists, counsellors, or mental health social workers can offer tools, validation, and safe space to unpack what you’re carrying.Try writing, mindfulness, or body-based practices. Journaling, breathwork, gentle movement, or time in nature can help shift what feels stuck.Set small, manageable goals. Rest is productive. Healing isn’t linear. Take it moment by moment.Need to talk to someone now? Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 (Australia, 24/7) for free and confidential support. If you're outside Australia, please reach out to a local crisis line or mental health service in your area. And remember: You don’t need to be doing everything. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to keep showing up, gently, honestly, and in your own time. You are not broken. You are not alone. You are deeply worthy of support, care, and inner peace. Please follow Behind Closed Doors on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/behind.closed.doors.podcast/

    11 min

  3. AUG 25

    The Year I couldn't Hide Anymore

    Episode 5  In this episode, I take you to the start of 2023, my 35th birthday, a house full of friends, and a night I’ll never forget. From sleepless nights to surfing highs, this was the year I learned how deeply fear can take root when sleep disappears, and how hard it is to keep pretending you're okay when you're not. This was a year of another slow unraveling… and the search for something different.  Show Notes Insomnia If you're struggling with insomnia or feeling overwhelmed by poor sleep, I want you to know you're not alone. This episode reflects my story, but everyone’s path is different. Below are some gentle, supportive ideas to explore if you're feeling stuck. They’re not prescriptions, just places to start:   Speak to a GP or psychologist with sleep experience   Acknowledge and journal your sleep thoughts, sometimes externalising the   worry helps  Look into Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)  Try nervous system regulation tools like breathwork, vagus nerve exercises or yin yoga  Learn about the mind-body connection through authors like Dr. Sarno, Nicole Sachs or Dr. Gabor Maté Explore sleep-focused resources like “The Sleep Book” by Dr. Guy MeadowsPlease be kind to yourself. This stuff is hard. You’re not alone.  A Note on My Headaches At one point, I was experiencing constant, daily headaches that left me physically and emotionally drained. While they’ve eased recently, possibly due to a combination of nervous system regulation, sleep improvements, and antidepressant medication, it’s still an ongoing journey, and I don’t have all the answers. I’m sharing this part of my story not as a diagnosis, but as a lived experience. Chronic pain and healing can look different for everyone. Just because something has shifted doesn’t mean it wasn’t real, or that it’s "fixed." If you're living with persistent headaches, I see you. You’re not alone, and you’re not imagining it. Daily Persistent Headaches  If you're dealing with persistent daily headaches, I know how exhausting and overwhelming it can be. Below are some gentle, supportive ideas to explore if you’re feeling stuck. These aren’t prescriptions, just places to begin: Speak to your GP or a neurologist to rule out underlying causesKeep a headache journal to track patterns, triggers, and symptom changesLook into specialist headache clinics—some offer holistic or multidisciplinary approachesExplore the link between chronic pain and the nervous system, including central sensitisationTry nervous system regulation tools like gentle yoga, breathwork, or somatic trackingLearn from mind-body practitioners such as Dr. John Sarno, Dr. Howard Schubiner, or Nicole SachsConsider dietary, hormonal, or environmental triggers, with the support of a qualified practitionerAsk about preventative treatments or medications tailored for chronic headache or migraine Please follow Behind Closed Doors on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/behind.closed.doors.podcast/

    20 min

  4. AUG 21

    The Night My Body Said Enough And The Journey To Rebuild Began

    Episode 4 What happens when your body refuses to be ignored? On the outside, life looked picture-perfect new home, school milestones, and a sense of “normal.” But beneath the surface, my body was sending signals that grew louder and louder until I had no choice but to listen. In this episode, I share the year everything shifted, the moment my body finally said: enough. Show Notes Insomnia If you're struggling with insomnia or feeling overwhelmed by poor sleep, I want you to know you're not alone. This episode reflects my story, but everyone’s path is different. Below are some gentle, supportive ideas to explore if you're feeling stuck. They’re not prescriptions, just places to start:    Speak to a GP or psychologist with sleep experience   Acknowledge and journal your sleep thoughts, sometimes externalising the  worry helps    Look into Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)    Try nervous system regulation tools like breathwork, vagus nerve exercises or yin yoga    Learn about the mind-body connection through authors like Dr. Sarno, Nicole Sachs or Dr. Gabor Maté Explore sleep-focused resources like “The Sleep Book” by Dr. Guy MeadowsPlease be kind to yourself. This stuff is hard. You’re not alone.  Living with chronic pain is exhausting, physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you’re dealing with it, you’re not alone. Here are some supportive ideas: Mind-Body Connection The Way Out by Alan Gordon (on rewiring pain pathways)Healing Back Pain by Dr. John Sarno (explores emotional roots of pain; might resonate differently for everyone)Curable App, education and tools to manage pain with a mind-body approachBody-Based Support Physiotherapy, gentle movement, or exercise that feels safe (even 5 minutes daily helps)Heat, hydrotherapy, walking, rest, simple but effective toolsYou don’t have to push through pain to make progressNervous System & Emotional Support Somatic therapy or trauma-informed counsellingMindfulness, grounding practices, journaling, or creative outlets to express what words can’tPodcasts to Learn From (if you have the capacity) Tell Me About Your Pain (Alan Gordon & Alon Ziv)The Chronic Comeback (Phil Hatfield)Feel Better Live More Ep #472 (Professor Peter O’Sullivan on breaking free from chronic pain)Please follow Behind Closed Doors on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/behind.closed.doors.podcast/

    19 min

  5. AUG 18

    My Journey Through A Second Pregnancy, Chronic Pain, And Finding Resilience In Uncertainty

    Episode 3, I share my second pregnancy journey, amidst Covid lockdowns, navigating pain, a fleeting fibromyalgia diagnosis, postpartum challenges, and the quiet resilience that helped me find strength, balance, and hope amid uncertainty. A raw, honest look at life behind closed doors. Show Notes If this episode brought up feelings like anxiety, overwhelm, low mood, you’re not alone. These are common experiences, and support is available. Here are some steps and resources that might help: Reach out to your GP, maternal health nurse, or a trusted health professional. They can guide you toward the right support.PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia): 1300 726 306 | Website: PANDACOPE (Centre of Perinatal Excellence): Website: COPETalk to someone you trust a partner, friend, or family. Sometimes just saying it aloud helps.Consider seeing therapists trained in perinatal mental health for tools, validation, and language.Try writing, breath work, or body-based practices, these can connect with emotions that words can’t reach.Remember: You don’t need to be perfect to be a good mum. You are doing enough. Be gentle with yourself.Living with chronic pain is exhausting, physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you’re dealing with it, you’re not alone. Here are some supportive ideas: Mind-Body Connection The Way Out by Alan Gordon (on rewiring pain pathways)Healing Back Pain by Dr. John Sarno (explores emotional roots of pain; might resonate differently for everyone)Curable App, education and tools to manage pain with a mind-body approachBody-Based Support Physiotherapy, gentle movement, or exercise that feels safe (even 5 minutes daily helps)Heat, hydrotherapy, walking, rest, simple but effective toolsYou don’t have to push through pain to make progressNervous System & Emotional Support Somatic therapy or trauma-informed counsellingMindfulness, grounding practices, journaling, or creative outlets to express what words can’tPodcasts to Learn From (if you have the capacity) Tell Me About Your Pain (Alan Gordon & Alon Ziv)The Chronic Comeback (Phil Hatfield)Feel Better Live More Ep #472 (Professor Peter O’Sullivan on breaking free from chronic pain)Struggling with Sleep or Insomnia Sleep difficulties are common postpartum, especially when combined with anxiety, pain, or stress. You are not alone.Speak with your GP or a perinatal sleep specialist if sleep loss is persistent. They can guide safe strategies.Sleep hygiene tips: keep a consistent bedtime routine, limit screens before bed, and make your bedroom a calm, dark, cool environment.Gentle tools: relaxation, breath work, meditation.                Please follow Behind Closed Doors on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/behind.closed.doors.podcast/

    18 min

  6. AUG 18

    Early Motherhood, Chronic Pain, And The spiral Of Sleep Deprivation That Quietly Consumed Me

    In episode 2, I share my journey through early motherhood, postnatal anxiety, and sleepless nights. From navigating chronic pain to the quiet unravelling behind closed doors, it’s a raw and honest look at what it’s like to carry unseen battles—and the small moments of support and hope that make all the difference. Show Notes If this episode brought up feelings like anxiety, overwhelm, low mood, you’re not alone. These are common experiences, and support is available. Here are some steps and resources that might help: Reach out to your GP, maternal health nurse, or a trusted health professional. They can guide you toward the right support.PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia): 1300 726 306 | Website: PANDACOPE (Centre of Perinatal Excellence): Website: COPETalk to someone you trust a partner, friend, or family. Sometimes just saying it aloud helps.Consider seeing therapists trained in perinatal mental health for tools, validation, and language.Try writing, breath work, or body-based practices, these can connect with emotions that words can’t reach.Remember: You don’t need to be perfect to be a good mum. You are doing enough. Be gentle with yourself.Living with chronic pain is exhausting, physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you’re dealing with it, you’re not alone. Here are some supportive ideas: Mind-Body Connection The Way Out by Alan Gordon (on rewiring pain pathways)Healing Back Pain by Dr. John Sarno (explores emotional roots of pain; might resonate differently for everyone)Curable App, education and tools to manage pain with a mind-body approachBody-Based Support Physiotherapy, gentle movement, or exercise that feels safe (even 5 minutes daily helps)Heat, hydrotherapy, walking, rest, simple but effective toolsYou don’t have to push through pain to make progressNervous System & Emotional Support Somatic therapy or trauma-informed counsellingMindfulness, grounding practices, journaling, or creative outlets to express what words can’tPodcasts to Learn From (if you have the capacity) Tell Me About Your Pain (Alan Gordon & Alon Ziv)The Chronic Comeback (Phil Hatfield)Feel Better Live More Ep #472 (Professor Peter O’Sullivan on breaking free from chronic pain)Struggling with Sleep or Insomnia Sleep difficulties are common postpartum, especially when combined with anxiety, pain, or stress. You are not alone.Speak with your GP or a perinatal sleep specialist if sleep loss is persistent. They can guide safe strategies.Sleep hygiene tips: keep a consistent bedtime routine, limit screens before bed, and make your bedroom a calm, dark, cool environment.Gentle tools: relaxation, breath work, meditation.        Please follow Behind Closed Doors on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/behind.closed.doors.podcast/

    16 min

  7. AUG 18

    Where My 19 Year Journey of Silent Health Battles Began

    Behind Closed Doors is a 7-part audio series written and voiced by Alice Atkins. In episode 1, I share how my journey with invisible chronic illness, chronic pain, sleep and mental health struggles began. It’s a real, honest look at what it’s like to carry unseen battles and finally start speaking your truth. Show notes If this episode brought up feelings like anxiety, overwhelm, low mood, you’re not alone. These are common experiences, and support is available. Here are some steps and resources that might help: Reach out to your GP, maternal health nurse, or a trusted health professional. They can guide you toward the right support.PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia): 1300 726 306 | Website: PANDACOPE (Centre of Perinatal Excellence): Website: COPETalk to someone you trust a partner, friend, or family. Sometimes just saying it aloud helps.Consider seeing therapists trained in perinatal mental health for tools, validation, and language.Try writing, breath work, or body-based practices, these can connect with emotions that words can’t reach.Remember: You don’t need to be perfect to be a good mum. You are doing enough. Be gentle with yourself.Living with chronic pain is exhausting, physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you’re dealing with it, you’re not alone. Here are some supportive ideas: Mind-Body Connection The Way Out by Alan Gordon (on rewiring pain pathways)Healing Back Pain by Dr. John Sarno (explores emotional roots of pain; might resonate differently for everyone)Curable App, education and tools to manage pain with a mind-body approachBody-Based Support Physiotherapy, gentle movement, or exercise that feels safe (even 5 minutes daily helps)Heat, hydrotherapy, walking, rest, simple but effective toolsYou don’t have to push through pain to make progressNervous System & Emotional Support Somatic therapy or trauma-informed counsellingMindfulness, grounding practices, journaling, or creative outlets to express what words can’tPodcasts to Learn From (if you have the capacity) Tell Me About Your Pain (Alan Gordon & Alon Ziv)The Chronic Comeback (Phil Hatfield)Feel Better Live More Ep #472 (Professor Peter O’Sullivan on breaking free from chronic pain)Struggling with Sleep or Insomnia Sleep difficulties are common postpartum, especially when combined with anxiety, pain, or stress. You are not alone.Speak with your GP or a perinatal sleep specialist if sleep loss is persistent. They can guide safe strategies.Sleep hygiene tips: keep a consistent bedtime routine, limit screens before bed, and make your bedroom a calm, dark, cool environment.Gentle tools: relaxation, breath work, meditation.    Please follow Behind Closed Doors on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/behind.closed.doors.podcast/

    28 min
  • 7 Episodes

About

Behind Closed Doors is a podcast where I share my personal journey of nearly two decades living with chronic pain, mental health struggles, and sleepless nights. It’s a raw, honest conversation about the realities many of us face but rarely talk about openly. The mission behind the podcast is simple, to create connection and understanding. Everyone has a story, and often the hardest battles happen behind closed doors. By sharing mine, I hope to shine a light on those silent struggles, reduce the stigma around chronic illness and mental health, and remind people they’re not alone.

Information

  • Creator
    Alice Atkins
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Behind Closed Doors
  • Show Website
    Behind Closed Doors

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