391 episodes

This is a podcast dedicated to answering your questions about mental health, anxiety, depression, relationships, sex, and life WITHOUT psychobabble BS. I am Dr. Robert Duff, a psychologist from Southern California, but I'm also a regular dude who legitimately wants to help out. I wrote the best selling books Hardcore Self Help: F**k Depression and Hardcore Self Help: F**K Anxiety. Those are available at http://hardcoreselfhelp.com

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

    • Health & Fitness
    • 4.5 • 944 Ratings

This is a podcast dedicated to answering your questions about mental health, anxiety, depression, relationships, sex, and life WITHOUT psychobabble BS. I am Dr. Robert Duff, a psychologist from Southern California, but I'm also a regular dude who legitimately wants to help out. I wrote the best selling books Hardcore Self Help: F**k Depression and Hardcore Self Help: F**K Anxiety. Those are available at http://hardcoreselfhelp.com

    Episode 389: Am I Bugging My Therapist? & Abusive Ex Using Kids Against Me!

    Episode 389: Am I Bugging My Therapist? & Abusive Ex Using Kids Against Me!

    Hello, friends! In today’s episode of the podcast, we dive deep into two incredibly relatable listener questions that touch on emotional and psychological challenges many of us might face.
    Our first discussion revolves around the complex emotions of worrying about one’s therapist. One listener shares their concern about being a burden by repeatedly discussing the same issues, particularly body dysmorphia, fearing it might negatively impact their therapist. We unravel this common fear, emphasizing the nature of therapy and the professional capacity of therapists to manage their own feelings and support their clients effectively.
    In our second exploration, we address the heart-wrenching situation of a listener navigating the aftermath of an abusive marriage, particularly the impact on their children. This listener’s struggle with their ex-partner’s manipulation and its effect on their relationship with their children brings to light the challenges of co-parenting and protecting one’s mental and emotional well-being during such turbulent times. We offer insights into seeking support, understanding the dynamics at play, and strategies for maintaining a healthy relationship with one’s children amidst external pressures.
    As always, your thoughts and questions are invaluable to us. Reach out via duffthepsych@gmail.com or explore more resources at http://duffthepsych.com/episode389. Your journey is important, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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    • 33 min
    Episode 388: Building Emotional Intelligence & Partner is Afraid of Pictures

    Episode 388: Building Emotional Intelligence & Partner is Afraid of Pictures

    Hello friends!
    In today’s episode, we dive into two listener queries that shine a light on the complexities of emotional experiences and relationships. First, we explore the journey of someone grappling with childhood emotional neglect, unpacking the long-term effects of growing up in an environment where emotions were disregarded and undervalued. Our listener shares their struggle with feeling emotionally disconnected and their quest for a path toward healing and emotional awareness.
    Then, we shift gears to discuss the challenges faced by a couple when one partner feels uncomfortable with being photographed. This scenario opens up a dialogue on insecurities, the significance of memories captured in photos, and the importance of understanding and respecting each other’s boundaries.
    As always, you can send me your questions at duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode388.
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    • 24 min
    Episode 387: Should I Still Talk to My Ex?

    Episode 387: Should I Still Talk to My Ex?

    Hello friends!
    In this episode, we delve into a deeply personal and complex question that touches on the lasting impact of past relationships, the nuances of friendship, and the boundaries within a current, happy marriage. A listener shares their experience of not being able to stop thinking about an ex, despite being happily married and having no desire to rekindle a romantic relationship. They discuss the significance of this past relationship during a pivotal time in their life and ponder whether they should attempt to cultivate a friendship or strive to move on completely.
    We explore the importance of acknowledging the role this person played in their life, while also considering the potential implications for their current relationship. The conversation includes practical advice on navigating these feelings, communicating with both the spouse and the ex, and setting healthy boundaries. We also discuss the potential for "relationship drift" and the importance of being honest with oneself about the true motivations and possible outcomes of re-establishing contact.
    As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode387.
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    Episode 386: Starting Dating in 30s & Navigating BPD in the UK

    Episode 386: Starting Dating in 30s & Navigating BPD in the UK

    Hello friends!
    In today’s episode, we delve into two deeply personal and impactful listener questions, uncovering layers of self-discovery, acceptance, and the ongoing journey towards healing and love:
    Embarking on a Journey of Self-Discovery and Love: A 32-year-old male shares his transformative journey from battling addiction and isolation to embracing therapy, wellness, and the realization of his deep desire for love and intimacy. Facing fears of rejection, exploring his sexuality, and stepping into the dating scene, he seeks guidance and affirmation that it's never too late to find love and form meaningful connections.
    Navigating Mental Health Challenges in the UK: A listener from the UK expresses frustration with the mental health support system, revealing a recent diagnosis of BPD after years of being treated for depression. Despite facing suicidality and feeling abandoned by the healthcare system, they search for hope and strategies to cope with the intense highs and lows of BPD, highlighting the urgent need for compassionate and effective mental health care.
    As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode386.
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    • 34 min
    Episode 385: Obsessing Over New Relationships & Recovering from Sexual Assault

    Episode 385: Obsessing Over New Relationships & Recovering from Sexual Assault

    Hello, friends!
    In today’s episode, we tackle two profound listener questions that may resonate with many of you:
    Navigating Romantic Relationships and Self-Esteem: A listener seeks advice on managing the anxiety and self-doubt that accompany new romantic relationships. We discuss the concept of "correct rejections" and explore strategies for nurturing a healthy sense of self-esteem, such as focusing on personal growth and savoring moments of joy.
    Overcoming Trauma and Self-Doubt: Another listener shares their struggle with self-doubt stemming from a traumatic experience. We emphasize the importance of self-compassion and challenge the stigma associated with seeking help. We discuss the benefits of therapy and self-help resources, as well as the empowering nature of setting challenges and connecting with others.
    As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode at http://duffthepsych.com/episode385
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    • 26 min
    Episode 384: All About Depression

    Episode 384: All About Depression

    Hello friends!
    In today's in-depth episode, we embark on a comprehensive exploration of depression, a condition that's far more complex than the occasional sadness or the transient moods we all experience. Our journey aims to shed light on the multifaceted nature of depression, affecting individuals across the globe in myriad ways. We delve into the clinical aspects, the personal stories, and the common misconceptions surrounding this pervasive mental health condition.
    We start by breaking down the very concept of depression, moving beyond the simple definition to uncover its roots and how it impacts the human experience. Through the lens of the DSM-5, we explore the criteria for diagnosing Major Depressive Disorder, highlighting the diversity of symptoms and the profound effect they have on individuals' lives.
    Our discussion takes a personal turn as we examine the experiences of James and Ellie, two hypothetical cases that illustrate the varied manifestations of depression. James, with his outward success masking an internal struggle, and Ellie, facing overt challenges in her transition to college life, offer insights into the silent battles many face.
    Addressing common misconceptions, we challenge the stigmas associated with depression, emphasizing its complexity and the fact that it's not a sign of weakness, nor is it something one can simply "snap out of." We also touch upon the idea that depression can affect anyone, regardless of how "good" their life may seem.
    As we move towards solutions, we discuss the treatability of depression, underscoring the effectiveness of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. We emphasize that for those facing this condition, there is hope, and a multitude of resources available to support their journey towards recovery.
    In closing, we reaffirm the importance of understanding, empathy, and support in the battle against depression. We encourage our listeners to reach out for help, to engage in conversations about mental health, and to seek the resources necessary to navigate this challenging yet treatable condition.
    As always, you can send me questions to duffthepsych@gmail.com and find the full show notes for this episode, including links to resources and further reading, at http://duffthepsych.com/episode384.
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    • 37 min

Customer Reviews

4.5 out of 5
944 Ratings

944 Ratings

Kidset ,

Informative and engaging podcast

I’m a psychiatric nurse and have been listening to Dr. Duff’s podcast for about a year. I’ve learned so much both professionally and personally. I look forward to the new episodes every week. Highly recommend!

JessicaV7! ,

Favorite mental health podcast

This is my go-to podcast for anything mental health related. Duff covers the topics in an informative but engaging style. I’ve learned so much about myself and my own thought patterns. The podcast has also helped me understand various mental health diagnoses and behaviors, allowing me to be a better nurse and all around human being. Thanks!

Selmahyek ,

The best podcast out there for mental health and relationships

This podcast is super freaking cool. I every episode is engaging, contains language that accessible to the average person, and very informative. I will probably never stop listening to it because it’s always one of those that you look forward to staying on top of- plus his voice is freakin sexy.

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