RECOVERable: Mental Health and Addiction Experts Answer Your Questions

Recovery.com | Experts in Mental Health and Addiction
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  • MENTAL HEALTH

RECOVERable features conversations with top experts in mental health, addiction recovery, and emotional wellbeing. Each episode answers the internet’s most-asked questions about topics like anxiety, trauma, relapse, and self-growth, breaking them down into clear, relatable insights you can actually use. No jargon. No judgment. Just expert-backed guidance to help you understand and take control of your mental health.

  1. 3D AGO

    Is It Just "Baby Blues" or Postpartum Depression? How to Know (Part 2)

    Are you feeling overwhelmed, angry, or disconnected after childbirth? You are not alone—nearly 20% of new mothers experience postpartum depression, yet many suffer in silence due to a paralyzing sense of shame. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/ In this essential follow-up, host Terry McGuire continues the conversation with Dr. Karen Sheffield-Abdullah. Dr. Sheffield-Abdullah is a PhD, researcher, and nurse-midwife with over 20 years of experience specializing in perinatal mental health. While Part 1 focused on pregnancy, this episode dives deep into the "fourth trimester," exploring why the massive dip in progesterone after the placenta is delivered can trigger everything from the "baby blues" to severe clinical depression. Dr. Sheffield-Abdullah addresses the "elephant in the room": the terrifying intrusive thoughts many mothers experience but are too afraid to voice for fear of Child Protective Services (CPS). We discuss the critical differences between normal exhaustion and medical red flags, including postpartum rage, anxiety, and the rare but serious condition of postpartum psychosis. This episode is a roadmap for recovery, highlighting the importance of the two-week postpartum check-up and providing resources like Postpartum Support International (PSI) and the 988 crisis line. Whether you are a new parent or a loved one looking for signs, this video offers the language and hope needed to navigate the challenges of early motherhood. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – [Intro] Postpartum Depression vs. The Blues  00:54 – How Common is Postpartum Depression?  07:30 – What is "Normal" for a New Mother?  09:19 – When Does it Become a Medical Problem?  12:27 – Who is Most at Risk for PPD?  21:57 – Is it PPD or Just Sleep Deprivation?  23:25 – The Truth About Scary Intrusive Thoughts  24:58 – Addressing the Fear of Child Protective Services  30:27 – How Long Does Postpartum Depression Last?  40:05 – Understanding Postpartum Rage and Psychosis  ❓ Questions the Podcast Answers: What is the difference between postpartum blues and postpartum depression? How common is postpartum depression in new mothers? Why does my mood change so drastically after giving birth? Is it normal to cry at commercials after having a baby? When should a new mother seek medical intervention for her mood? What are the symptoms of postpartum anxiety and OCD? Are intrusive thoughts about harming the baby common? Will I lose my baby to CPS if I admit I have depression? What is the perinatal psychiatry inpatient unit at UNC? How can I tell my partner I think I have PPD? How long does postpartum depression typically last? Why am I experiencing "postpartum rage" and anger? What are the signs of postpartum psychosis? Is it normal to have trouble bonding with a newborn? Where can I find a postpartum depression helpline? #PostpartumDepression #PostpartumAnxiety #MaternalMentalHealth

    49 min

  2. APR 2

    1 in 5 Women Hide This: The Truth About Pregnancy Depression (Part 1)

    Are you struggling with depression during pregnancy but afraid to talk about it? You are not alone, as up to 20% of women will experience a significant mood disorder during pregnancy or after birth. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/ In this episode, host Terry McGuire sits down with Dr. Karen Sheffield-Abdullah. Dr. Sheffield-Abdullah is a professor, a nurse-midwife of 20 years, and a researcher specializing in Black maternal stress and anxiety. We dive deep into the often-misunderstood world of perinatal mental health, breaking down the crucial differences between antenatal depression, pregnancy anxiety, and the standard "baby blues". Dr. Sheffield-Abdullah explains how the hormonal shifts of pregnancy, like the dip in progesterone, can easily mask clinical depression. We also tackle the most searched questions on the internet regarding maternal mental health. Does crying constantly affect your baby's development? Are antidepressants actually safe to take during pregnancy? What are the real risks of leaving depression untreated? Dr. Sheffield-Abdullah provides evidence-based answers, reassuring expecting parents that treatments like talk therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and SSRIs are both safe and highly effective. She also explores the "Superwoman Schema" and how the pressure to maintain a stoic exterior prevents many—especially Black women—from being vulnerable and seeking help. Whether you are pregnant and experiencing unexplained mood swings , or you are trying to support a loved one who might be quietly suffering, this episode offers compassionate, actionable advice. You'll learn how to successfully advocate for yourself at the doctor's office , simple mindfulness techniques like body scans to break the cycle of "bed rotting" , and why it is so important to build a strong support system early on. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – The Truth About Pregnancy Search History  01:01 – Antenatal vs. Postpartum Depression Explained  02:40 – Baby Blues vs. Clinical Depression Symptoms  06:47 – Why Pregnancy Causes Severe Anxiety  09:20 – Does Crying Affect My Baby's Development?  11:05 – Are Antidepressants Safe During Pregnancy?  14:02 – Overcoming Guilt & The "Superwoman Schema"  21:57 – Am I Depressed or Just Hormonal?  29:48 – The Real Risks of Untreated Depression  36:08 – How to Stop "Bed Rotting" & Seek Help  ❓ Questions the Video Answers: What are the signs of depression during pregnancy? Is it normal to have extreme anxiety while pregnant? What is the difference between antenatal depression and perinatal depression? Does crying while pregnant hurt the baby's development? Are antidepressants like SSRIs safe to take during pregnancy? How do you know if you are just hormonal or clinically depressed? What are the risks to the baby if depression is left untreated? How do you tell your OBGYN or doctor that you are depressed? What can I do to stop "bed rotting" and lack of motivation while pregnant? Can untreated pregnancy anxiety cause premature birth? How can mindfulness and body scans help with pregnancy depression? Does hating being pregnant affect bonding with the baby later? How can I prepare for postpartum depression during my second or third trimester? What is the Superwoman Schema in maternal mental health? Why do hormonal shifts cause the baby blues? #PregnancyDepression #MaternalMentalHealth #PregnancyAnxiety

    53 min

  3. MAR 26

    Forced Treatment: Does Coerced Recovery Actually Work? (Part 2)

    Description: How do you know when you’ve finally reached the point where you can't do it alone? For many, the realization doesn't come from a "lightbulb moment," but from the exhaustion of repeating the same mistakes while expecting different results. In Part 2 of our deep dive into the Levels of Care, host Terry McGuire and Dr. Sal Raichbach explore the psychological barriers to seeking help and the reality of life after the "rehab" doors close. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/ Dr. Sal Raichbach, PsyD, LCSW, CFSW, is an expert in behavioral health with over 33 years of experience. In this episode, he tackles the uncomfortable truths about addiction treatment: why discharge planning must begin the very day you are admitted , the critical difference between "acute" and "chronic" symptoms , and how to navigate a toxic home environment once you've completed a program. We also address the "failed" treatment attempt. If you’ve tried rehab before and it didn’t work, Dr. Sal offers a perspective that might change everything you think about your journey. From daily recovery habits—like self-reflection and medication adherence—to the power of peer support groups, this conversation provides a roadmap for anyone navigating the complex system of behavioral health. Recovery isn't a "one-stop shop"; it's a series of steps toward a life you actually want to live. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – Recap: The Continuum of Care 02:46 – How to Know When It’s Time for Help 05:23 – Choice vs. Coercion: The Truth About Ultimatums 07:27 – Acute vs. Chronic: Understanding Success Rates 10:45 – Is Relapse a Part of the Process? 12:59 – Why You Can't Dictate Your Own Level of Care 16:16 – Why Discharge Planning Starts at Admission 19:26 – Staying Sober in a Toxic Home Environment 22:53 – 6 Daily Habits to Maintain Long-Term Recovery 26:31 – "I Tried Rehab and Failed"—The Honest Truth ❓ Questions the Video Answers: How do I know if I'm ready for addiction treatment? Does treatment work if someone is forced to go? What is the difference between acute and chronic mental health symptoms? Is relapse a failure or a "setback"? Why is discharge planning important in recovery? How do I stay sober if my family still drinks or uses? What are "wraparound services" in addiction care? Can I bring my phone or laptop to residential rehab? Why do people go back to rehab multiple times? What daily habits help maintain sobriety after treatment? How do I advocate for the right level of care? What is the role of medication in long-term recovery? Can adolescents be forced into treatment without consent? What is "projection" in addiction psychology? Why does "trying" therapy require full participation? #addictionrecovery #mentalhealth #soberlife

    33 min

  4. MAR 19

    Addiction Treatment Levels of Care: What You Actually Need to Know (Part 1)

    Navigating the world of addiction and mental health treatment can feel like learning a completely different language when you are already at your breaking point. How do you know if you need a "hospital level" of care or if weekly therapy is enough? In this episode of RECOVERable, host Terry McGuire sits down with behavioral health expert Dr. Sal Raichbach to demystify the "continuum of care" and explain exactly what happens at every stage of recovery. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/ Dr. Sal Raichbach, PsyD, LCSW, CFSW, is a doctoral-level psychologist and Chief Clinical Officer at Haven Health Management with over 33 years of experience in the field. He breaks down the critical differences between Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient (IOP), Partial Hospitalization (PHP), and Residential treatment. You’ll learn why the "30-day rehab" rule is often an insurance myth and what a "SMART" treatment plan actually looks like. Whether you are struggling with a dual diagnosis or trying to help a loved one choose the right path, Dr. Sal explains the risks of "DIY" research and why professional assessment is the first step toward lasting sobriety. We dive deep into the intensity of medical detox, the power of group therapy for those who "hate groups," and how to manage the transition back into everyday life. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – Why Understanding "Levels of Care" Saves Lives 01:45 – The Danger of "DIY" Addiction Research  03:00 – Breakdown: The 5 Major Levels of Treatment  06:14 – Outpatient vs. Intensive Outpatient (IOP)  13:12 – What is a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)?  18:13 – Residential Treatment: What Really Happens in "Rehab"  26:19 – The "SMART" Treatment Plan Explained  27:21 – The 30-Day Rehab Myth & Insurance Truths  31:52 – Inpatient Care: When Is It a Crisis?  35:53 – Medical Detox: Is It Always Necessary? ❓ Questions the Video Answers: What are the different levels of care for addiction?What is the difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment?Is intensive outpatient (IOP) better than regular therapy?What does a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) actually do?How do I know if I need residential rehab?Why does insurance only pay for 30 days of treatment?Do I need medical detox for alcohol or drugs?Can you do intensive outpatient (IOP) via telehealth?What is a "dual diagnosis" and how is it treated?What happens during a rehab intake assessment?How long do I have to stay in a residential program?Is inpatient care the same as being "locked down"?What is a "SMART" treatment plan in recovery?How does group therapy help if I'm not a "group person"?What are the risks of detoxing at home without medical help?#addictionrecovery #mentalhealth #rehab

    39 min

  5. MAR 12

    Passive Suicidal Ideation: When You "Wish You Didn't Wake Up" (Part 2)

    Thoughts of suicide are not uncommon and can be a part of the human experience for many individuals at various points in their lives. In Part 2 of this series, host Terry McGuire welcomes back Dr. Sara Kohlbeck, PhD, a public health researcher specializing in suicide. This conversation focuses on the "invitations" people send when they are in distress and how to navigate the spectrum of suicidal thoughts with empathy and evidence-based tools. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/ Dr. Kohlbeck explains that warning signs in teens often manifest as impulsivity or reckless behavior, such as dangerous driving or taking unknown substances. She introduces the "Assist" training framework, which views these behaviors as "invitations" to explore the underlying pain a person is carrying. This episode also clarifies the reality of "passive suicidal ideation"—thoughts like wishing to go to sleep and never wake up—which are valid experiences that require support even without an immediate plan. Dr. Sara Kohlbeck, PhD, provides a rare, firsthand account of her own experience driving herself to the emergency department during a crisis. She details the medical triage process and addresses the common fear that seeking help will lead to immediate restraint or being "locked up". By normalizing these conversations and teaching listeners how to create a "Safety Plan," Dr. Kohlbeck empowers communities to become a foundation for wellness. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – [Intro] Normalizing Thoughts of Suicide 02:50 – Warning Signs in Teens: Impulsivity and Risk 07:15 – Identifying "Invitations" for Help 09;12 – Sudden Calmness: Why It Can Be a Danger Sign 14:10 – Understanding Passive Suicidal Ideation 28:52 – How Long Does a Suicidal Crisis Last? 29:29 – Restricting Access to Lethal Means 33:22 – How to Create a Safety Plan 41:08 – Walking into the ER: Triage and Treatment 45:24 – Will My Therapist "Lock Me Up"? ❓ Questions the Video Answers: How do warning signs in teens differ from those in adults? What is the "Assist" training framework for suicide intervention? What are "invitations" for support and how do I spot them? Is a sudden improvement in mood always a good sign? What does "passive suicidal ideation" feel like? Can the option of suicide act as a "safety valve" for some? How long does a period of imminent suicidal crisis typically last? Why is "limiting access to lethal means" critical for safety? What is "means substitution" and does it actually happen? What words should I use when walking into an ER during a crisis? What medical tests are performed during a psychiatric ER visit? Will I be handcuffed if I admit I am suicidal at a hospital? How do I tell a therapist I have a plan without being hospitalized? What are "coping cards" and how can they help? How can communities better support those with suicidal thoughts? #suicideprevention #mentalhealth #teenmentalhealth

    49 min

  6. MAR 5

    How to Talk to Someone Who is Suicidal: What to Say and Do (Part 1)

    CONTENT WARNING: This episode discusses suicide and suicidal ideation, which may be difficult for some listeners; if you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a mental health professional or a crisis hotline like 988. "When you are suicidal, it is an incredibly isolating feeling. It’s feeling like nobody really understands." In this episode of RECOVER, host Terry McGuire sits down with Dr. Sara Kohlbeck, PhD, a distinguished suicidologist and public health researcher, to peel back the layers of a topic often kept in the shadows. Dr. Kohlbeck shares her profound insights into the "suicide spectrum" and the reality of being high-functioning while struggling with thoughts of ending one's life. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/ This conversation is designed to normalize the human experience of suicidal ideation and provide practical, research-backed tools for intervention. Whether you are currently struggling, a loss survivor, or someone worried about a friend, this episode offers a roadmap for connection. Dr. Kohlbeck explains the "Suicide Thermometer," why sadness isn't always the primary symptom, and how to navigate the fear of "saying the wrong thing." Dr. Sara Kohlbeck, PhD, is a leading expert in suicide research, focusing on the complex socio-economic factors that contribute to suicidal behavior. Her work emphasizes that connection is prevention. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or reach out to local mobile crisis teams. You are not a burden, and there is hope for recovery. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – Intro: Breaking the Silence on Suicide 01:31 – Normalizing Thoughts of Suicide 03:05 – The Suicide Thermometer: Understanding the Spectrum 05:58 – The Reality of High-Functioning Suicidality 06:36 – Critical Messages for Those Currently Struggling 13:47 – Why It Happens: The Complex Risk Factors 15:55 – What to Say to Someone Who is Suicidal 22:22 – The Myth: Does Asking About Suicide Plant the Idea? 24:03 – Crisis Response: When to Call 988 vs. 911 47:24 – How to Tell a Partner or Parent You’re Struggling ❓ Questions the Video Answers: How do I talk to someone who is suicidal? Does asking someone about suicide put the idea in their head? What is the difference between passive and active suicidal thoughts? Can you be high-functioning and suicidal at the same time? What happens when you call or text 988? What should I do if someone gets angry when I ask if they are suicidal? Why do I want to die if I don't feel sad? What are the subtle warning signs of suicide? How do I tell my parents I’m struggling if they don’t believe in therapy? Is suicidal ideation a normal part of the human experience? What is the "Suicide Thermometer" concept? When should I call 911 for a mental health crisis? How can I support a suicide loss survivor? What are "Warm Lines" and how do they differ from crisis lines? How do I help someone who feels like a burden? #suicideprevention #mentalhealth #988lifeline

    50 min

  7. FEB 26

    What Living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is Really Like (Part 2)

    Living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) often feels like being "screamed at by your brain" while trying to navigate everyday life. In this deeply personal and educational episode, we go beyond the "scary" stereotypes to reveal the intense emotional pain and interpersonal turmoil that defines this condition. Joining us is Sage Nestler, an LGBTQ+ mental health specialist and a leading educator on BPD. Sage is a member of the advocacy committee for the National Education Alliance on BPD (NEA-BPD) and provides a rare perspective as a clinician who also lives with the disorder. He explains that for those with the quiet version of BPD, the struggle is often internalized, making their experience invisible to the outside world. They share how the "Favorite Person" (FP) phenomenon and black-and-white thinking can create a constant cycle of idolization and fear of abandonment in relationships. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/ Sage clarifies the common confusion between BPD, Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD, explaining why he believes focusing on symptoms rather than labels is critical for proper care. They also address the most searched questions on the internet: Is there a specific medication for BPD? (The answer might surprise you) and can the disorder truly be "cured"?. Whether you are a "support person" for a loved one or someone seeking clarity for your own experience, they offer the validation and insight needed to move forward with compassion. For more resources, check out the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the Family Connections Program through the NEA-BPD. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – Defining Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) 01:21 – Common Stereotypes vs. Reality 02:55 – What Living With BPD Feels Like Internally 05:31 – Advice for Loved Ones and Support Systems 08:56 – How to Know if You Have BPD 10:02 – Resources: NEA-BPD and NAMI 15:08 – The "Favorite Person" (FP) Concept Explained 22:52 – Breaking Down the 9 Diagnostic Criteria 46:02 – Best Medication and Treatments for BPD 48:53 – Can Borderline Personality Disorder Be Cured? ❓ Questions the Video Answers: What is borderline personality disorder (BPD)?What does BPD feel like on the inside?What are the 9 diagnostic criteria for BPD?What is a BPD "Favorite Person" (FP)?What is "Quiet BPD" and how is it different?Can BPD be cured or treated effectively?Is there a specific medication for BPD?What is "splitting" in BPD relationships?How does BPD affect the fear of abandonment?Is BPD often misdiagnosed as bipolar disorder?Why is BPD so heavily stigmatized in mental health?How do you get a professional BPD diagnosis?What is identity disturbance in BPD?How can I support a partner or child with BPD?Does BPD cause chronic feelings of emptiness?#BPD #BorderlinePersonalityDisorder #MentalHealth Awareness

    51 min

  8. FEB 19

    Living with BPD: The Truth About Borderline Personality Disorder (Part 1)

    Stop the stigma. Sage Nestler, MSW, an LGBTQ+ mental health specialist and leading educator on BPD, joins the podcast to pull back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions. Often villainized or confused with narcissism, Borderline Personality Disorder is actually defined by intense emotional pain and a desperate search for relief. Sage shares his personal journey of being diagnosed after a mental breakdown and how he transitioned from fearing he was "evil" to becoming a specialized advocate for the BPD community. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/ In this deep-dive episode, Sage explains the fundamental characteristics of BPD, including mood dysregulation, an unstable sense of self, and the pervasive fear of abandonment that often sabotages relationships. We explore the specific nuances of "Quiet BPD," where emotional turmoil is turned inward through self-harm or eating disorders rather than external outbursts. Sage also breaks down the power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in managing daily spiraling thoughts. Whether you are living with a diagnosis or supporting a loved one, this conversation offers essential tools for de-escalation, communication, and radical self-compassion. Learn more about Sage Nestler’s work and advocacy by visiting the National Education Alliance on BPD. ⏱️ Chapters:  00:00 – Introduction to Sage Nestler, MSW  01:38 – What is Borderline Personality Disorder?  02:36 – Understanding BPD Mood Dysregulation  03:29 – How BPD Impacts Sense of Self  04:30 – The Reality of BPD in Relationships  07:59 – BPD vs. Narcissism: Ending the Stigma  19:25 – Is it Dangerous to Self-Diagnose BPD?  20:45 – Quiet BPD vs. Traditional Symptoms  27:11 – Supporting Someone with BPD in Crisis  36:06 – What Causes BPD: Genetics vs. Trauma ❓ Questions the Video Answers: What is Borderline Personality Disorder? How do BPD mood swings feel on a daily basis? Is BPD the same as Narcissistic Personality Disorder? What is "Quiet BPD" and how is it diagnosed? Why do people with BPD have a fear of abandonment? What is "splitting" or black-and-white thinking? Can BPD be treated with medication? How does DBT help with emotional regulation? Why is BPD often misdiagnosed as Bipolar Disorder? What causes BPD: is it genetic or trauma-based? How should you support a partner with BPD during a crisis? Why is BPD more commonly diagnosed in those assigned female at birth? What is a "Favorite Person" in the context of BPD?How can someone with BPD manage impulsive behaviors? Why is there such a heavy stigma around BPD in the media?#BPD #MentalHealth #QuietBPD

    44 min
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RECOVERable features conversations with top experts in mental health, addiction recovery, and emotional wellbeing. Each episode answers the internet’s most-asked questions about topics like anxiety, trauma, relapse, and self-growth, breaking them down into clear, relatable insights you can actually use. No jargon. No judgment. Just expert-backed guidance to help you understand and take control of your mental health.

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