RECOVERable: Mental Health and Addiction Experts Answer Your Questions

Recovery.com | Experts in Mental Health and Addiction
  • 5.0 (4)
  • 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. 5D AGO

    Eating Disorders: Signs, Symptoms, and How to Find Help (Part 1)

    "You can have an eating disorder and not be in an underweight body."  This powerful insight from Dr. Elizabeth Wassenaar, Regional Medical Director at the Eating Recovery Center, challenges everything we think we know about food, weight, and mental health. In this eye-opening episode of RECOVERable, host Terry Maguire sits down with Dr. Wassenaar to dismantle the dangerous myths surrounding eating disorders. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/ Dr. Wassenaar, a triple board-certified psychiatrist, explains that eating disorders are real, brain-based biological illnesses—not matters of willpower, vanity, or "just a diet gone wrong". We dive deep into why these conditions are curable, the difference between "disordered eating" and clinical diagnoses, and the alarming rise of anorexia and bulimia in younger children. We also address the "pathological aloneness" that often accompanies mental illness and why community and connection are the strongest antidotes to the isolation of an eating disorder. Whether you are struggling yourself, worried about a friend, or curious about the signs of eating disorders in men and boys, this conversation provides a compassionate roadmap for understanding and seeking help. Chapters: 00:00 – Intro 00:32 – What is the one thing society should understand? 02:06 – Why are eating disorders considered a mental illness? 06:34 – Is there a typical age when they start? 08:37 – Why are eating disorders starting at younger ages? 12:22 – How should we communicate with each other about bodies? 14:53 – What does disordered eating actually mean? 19:54 – When does it become a medical or mental health crisis? 23:45 – How does tracking calories and macros play a role? 37:34 – What are the signs a friend might have an eating disorder? 50:17 – Do guys get eating disorders, too? Questions the Video Answers: What is the difference between an eating disorder and disordered eating?Can you have an eating disorder if you aren't skinny?Are eating disorders a choice or a mental illness?What are the early warning signs of an eating disorder in a friend?Why are eating disorders becoming more common in children?How does social media impact body image and eating habits?Is it possible to fully recover and be "cured" from an eating disorder?What should I do if I feel suicidal due to an eating disorder?Do men and boys struggle with eating disorders?How can I talk to someone about their weight without being hurtful?Why do people use eating disorders as a way to regain control?What is the most fatal mental illness?How does "diet culture" reinforce disordered behaviors?What are the free resources available for eating disorder support?Why is connection and relationship important for recovery?#eatingdisorder #mentalhealth #recovery

    55 min

  2. APR 23

    ACEs: The Science of Positive Childhood Experiences (Part 2)

    Can you outrun a traumatic childhood? Dr. Christina Bethell returns for Part 2 to explain why an Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) score is an indicator of risk, not a predictor of destiny. As a national leader in population health and systems measurement, Dr. Bethell has reshaped how we understand the "toxic stress" that accumulates in the nervous system when childhood trauma is experienced without buffers. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/ In this episode, we dive into the "Positivity Paradox" and the breakthrough research on Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs). Dr. Bethell explains that the absence of positive experiences—feeling loved, supported, and heard—can be as detrimental to long-term health as the presence of trauma itself. We discuss why healthcare systems are often slow to screen for trauma and how the "medicine" of presence and connection can rewire the brain even decades later. Our guest, Dr. Christina Bethell (PhD, MPH, MBA), is a Professor at Johns Hopkins University and the Director of the Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative (CAHMI). Her work proves that healing is a life process and that "more likely is not most"—meaning a high trauma score does not guarantee a future of illness or addiction. Whether you are struggling with your own past or trying to build a resilient future for your children, this conversation offers a roadmap for shifting from "fixing" to "connecting". ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – Recap: How ACEs and PCEs intersect 05:03 – What does an ACE score actually mean? 08;23 – Are you "broken" if you have a high score? 10;43 – How do we get more positive experiences (PCEs)? 13;27 – Why don’t doctors ask about childhood trauma? 16;36 – Is the absence of "good" worse than the "bad"? 23;16 – The 4 indicators of family resilience 34;42 – Is it ever too late for adults to heal? 44;16 – Healing your relationship with your teenager 53;14 – A magic wand for society: Connecting vs. Fixing ❓ Questions the Video Answers: What is an ACE score?  Does a high ACEs score mean I will get sick?  What is the difference between an event and toxic stress?  How do positive childhood experiences buffer trauma?  Why is emotional neglect so common and harmful?  Can I heal my nervous system as an adult?  What is the "positivity paradox"?  Why don't insurance companies cover trauma screening?  Can I build resilience with my teenager now?  What is "biobehavioral synchrony" in parenting?  How does trauma affect the immune system?  What are the 7 key PCEs for healing?  How do I reparent my inner child?  Why is "feeling heard" a public health priority?  How can I find safety if I grew up not trusting people?  #childhoodtrauma #mentalhealth #resilience

    1 hr

  3. APR 16

    ACEs: Can You Heal From a Traumatic Childhood? (Part 1)

    Can you truly heal from a traumatic childhood? Dr. Christina Bethell explains why your past shapes you but doesn't have to define your future. In this episode of Recoverable, we dive deep into the groundbreaking research behind Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the "medicine" of Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs). Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https://recovery.com/ We explore the 10-question ACEs screener and why factors like emotional neglect are often the most underrated drivers of adult disease. Dr. Bethell shares her powerful personal story of growing up in the mid-60s amidst addiction and neglect, proving that even with a high trauma score, "flourishing" is possible through connection and emotional safety. Our guest, Christina Bethell, PhD, MPH, MBA, is a Professor at Johns Hopkins University and the founding director of the Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative (CAHMI). Her work has revolutionized how we view relational health as the cornerstone of well-being. Whether you are an adult seeking healing or a caregiver looking to protect a child, this conversation provides a research-based roadmap for recovery. If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and share it with someone who needs to hear that they matter. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 – Meet Dr. Christina Bethell 02:52 – What are ACEs and how do they impact us? 04:02 – Why were these 10 specific ACEs chosen? 09:51 – The long-term impact of feeling unloved 23:16 – Does the age trauma happens change the impact? 25:11 – What should you do if you have a high ACEs score? 28:23 – The Science of Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) 37:58 – How PCEs buffer the effects of a traumatic past 58:20 – How can we help others heal from trauma? 01:01:06 – What does "flourishing" actually look like? ❓ Questions the Video Answers: What are Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)? How do ACEs affect long-term physical health? What is the "positivity paradox" in trauma healing? Can you heal from a high ACEs score as an adult? What are the 7 Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs)? Why is emotional neglect as damaging as physical abuse? How does a parent's addiction impact a child's brain? Can one caring adult change a child's entire life trajectory? What is "developmental trauma disorder"? How do "mirror neurons" affect children witnessing conflict? Why is high school belonging such a strong protective factor? What is the neurobiology of "presence"? How do we move from "fixing" to "connecting"? What are the four different ways we measure flourishing? Is a high ACEs score a guarantee of future illness? #childhoodtrauma #resilience #mentalhealth

    1h 3m

  4. APR 9

    Pregnancy: Understanding Postpartum Depression (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

  5. APR 2

    Pregnancy: The Truth About Antenatal Depression and SSRIs (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

  6. MAR 26

    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

  7. MAR 19

    Treatment: Which Level of Care Do You Need? (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

  8. MAR 12

    Suicidality: Warning Signs in Teens vs. Adults (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
See All (23)

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

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.

Information

You Might Also Like