Best Gabe Howard Psych Central Podcast Podcasts (2024)

1
Psychiatry's Controversies: Overprescription, Skepticism, and Finding the Middle Ground 44:28

2h ago44:28

44:28

Today, Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss the anti-psychiatry movement, emphasizing the importance of balancing perspectives. They acknowledge the valid concerns of anti-psychiatry advocates but caution against the dangers of extreme views, which can undermine beneficial aspects of psychiatric treatment. They encourage reading both pro- and anti-psychiatr…

1
Signs of Progress: How to Recognize Recovery With Bipolar Disorder 41:01

5d ago41:01

41:01

Today, we tackle the complex question, "How do you know if you're getting better with bipolar disorder?" Gabe shares his experiences and frustrations as a patient with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole provides insights from a board certified psychiatrist's viewpoint. Together, they discuss the importance of setting realistic goals, the value of tra…

1
Navigating the Zombie Effect: Emotional Blunting with Bipolar Disorder 38:31

12d ago38:31

38:31

We discuss the common complaint from people with bipolar disorder of feeling emotionally blunted or like a "zombie" due to their medication. Gabe expresses the people’s frustrations when their concerns seem dismissed in favor of highlighting symptom improvements. Dr. Nicole emphasizes the importance of providing specific examples and patience becau…

1
Essential Questions to Ask About Your Bipolar Diagnosis and Treatment 44:12

19d ago44:12

44:12

Our hosts delve into the crucial aspects of understanding and managing a bipolar disorder diagnosis. Join them as they break down five essential questions every person should ask their healthcare professional about their diagnosis and treatment options. Learn why these questions matter, how to navigate the complex diagnostic process, and explore so…

1
Unmasking Imposter Syndrome: A Deep Dive into Its Origins and Impact 46:24

26d ago46:24

46:24

Our hosts try to avoid pop psychology topics and focus on specifics with more robust scientific backing. However, imposter syndrome has been getting a lot of attention recently. Even though imposter syndrome isn't officially a diagnosis, it's a real issue for many, including people with bipolar disorder. The fact is, imposter syndrome can affect an…

1
Unpacking the Psych Appointment: Questions, Expectations, and Outcomes 46:19

1M ago46:19

46:19

Ever wondered why your psychiatrist bombards you with what seem like mundane questions? Join Gabe, who is navigating life with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, as they delve into the dynamics of your psych visit. Their talk will touch on mood charts, sleep journals, and a better understanding of what is g…

1
Off the Meds: Navigating Bipolar Treatment Challenges 41:17

1M ago41:17

41:17

The common issue of people with bipolar disorder wanting to stop taking medication is discussed in today’s episode. Dr. Nicole Washington highlights that often, these people present compelling reasons why they believe their diagnosis might be incorrect, but stopping medication without a strategic, supervised approach can lead to severe consequences…

1
Humor and Breaking Stigma: Joking about Bipolar Disorder 43:55

2M ago43:55

43:55

Is it ever OK to joke about living with bipolar disorder? And what about people who live with bipolar — are they welcome to jest about their experiences, or is it considered inappropriate? While mental health circles often advocate embracing humor as a healthy coping mechanism, there's also the acknowledgment that bipolar disorder is a serious cond…

1
Losing Your Provider: Navigating the Therapeutic Relationship from Beginning to End 42:54

2M ago42:54

42:54

We discuss the challenges people face when needing to find a new psychiatrist, therapist, or support group, emphasizing that while people often underestimate the difficulty of this process, it's a crucial step in managing a long-term mental illness. We highlight that a solid patient-provider relationship is vital and can take time to replace a trus…

1
Navigating Family Support: The Partnership Paradigm with Bipolar Disorder 41:45

3M ago41:45

41:45

Today we discuss the importance of forming a supportive partnership with loved ones managing bipolar disorder without it devolving into a codependent relationship. We also discuss how important it is for our friends and family members not to micromanage or infantilize those living with bipolar. We emphasize the value of open communication so loved …

1
Busting Bipolar Myths: Uncovering the Truths Behind the Lies 34:27

3M ago34:27

34:27

Dispelling myths surrounding bipolar disorder can be challenging, especially considering its diverse presentation among individuals. In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole delve into these misconceptions, emphasizing the varied nature of the disorder's symptoms and the complexities involved in diagnosis and treatment. While acknowledging the importan…

1
Mood Stabilizers: Unraveling the Mysteries of These Medications 47:35

4M ago47:35

47:35

Today’s episode discusses the complexities and reality of mood stabilizers for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Though mood stabilizers can significantly aid in shifting mood, they are not perfect and come with various side effects, some of which may require regular blood monitoring and can affect daily life differently for each individual. You c…

1
Speed Shift from Mania to Steady Thoughts (and How to Manage) 38:06

4M ago38:06

38:06

Many people with bipolar disorder miss the feeling of mania despite its destructive nature. Today, we discuss the complexity of treating bipolar disorder, emphasizing the importance of patience, concrete examples of symptoms, and the fact that medication can help stabilize and potentially hinder a patient's cognitive functions. Gabe and Dr. Nicole …

1
Exploring the Gritty and Ugly Sides of Bipolar 42:41

4M ago42:41

42:41

Addressing the more difficult and less discussed aspects of bipolar disorder, such as the high suicide rates associated with the condition, the severe impacts of depressive episodes, and societal stigma & discrimination is never easy. However, in today's episode, we ask ourselves, candidly, do podcasts like this one ignore the “ugly” side of bipola…

1
Is “I’m Bipolar” a Stigmatizing Statement? 38:16

5M ago38:16

38:16

If you spend time discussing bipolar disorder, you’ll quickly see there are many complexities and controversies surrounding language and identity. Today’s conversation aims to emphasize respect and personal empowerment while encouraging society to accommodate individual language preferences and focus on broader issues of care for those living with …

1
Managing Urges and Impulses with Bipolar 39:11

5M ago39:11

39:11

“Bipolar urges" are the strong desires or impulses that people managing bipolar disorder may experience. Sometimes, giving in to these impulses can lead to significant life changes, such as quitting a job or spending excessively. It’s important to understand that while urges are a natural part of human behavior, managing them in the context of bipo…

1
Borderline Personality Disorder vs. Bipolar. Why the Confusion? 40:41

6M ago40:41

40:41

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is often compared to — or even confused with — bipolar disorder. Many people are curious whether BPD and bipolar are the same thing with different names. In this episode, we discuss what BPD is, what it is not, and if bipolar disorder and BPD have any relation at all. We also delve into whether someone can have…

1
Attending College with Bipolar Disorder 47:41

6M ago47:41

47:41

We’ve talked about how to manage going back to work after a bipolar diagnosis. But what about going to school? What is college like with bipolar disorder? What are the unique challenges of trying to navigate academia with a mental illness? And how can you put yourself in the best possible position for success? Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss…

1
Maintaining Long-Term Recovery with Bipolar Disorder 37:12

7M ago37:12

37:12

It can take a long time to reach recovery with bipolar disorder, but once you do, what then? Is it over? Can you stop going to support groups, monitoring your sleep, and tracking your moods? What about your medication and doctor’s visits — can all that just be forgotten? In fact, how long will it be before you can stop paying attention to all of th…

1
Annoying Things Psych Docs Say to Patients 36:17

7M ago36:17

36:17

We asked on social media for the most annoying things people’s psychiatrists have ever said to them. Wow, did we get some responses! From access to care to dismissing symptoms to offering nonsensical advice, people really feel many psychiatrists say a lot of annoying things. In this episode, we discuss the top four answers and Dr. Nicole shares som…

1
Does What You Eat Affect Bipolar? 40:17

8M ago40:17

40:17

There isn’t a specific diet that will cure bipolar disorder, but that doesn’t mean what we eat has no impact on how we feel. In fact, our diet can directly affect how we feel, which can drive the symptoms of bipolar disorder in a myriad of ways. Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole share specific tips on ways to eat better — even when depressed. They als…

1
Brain Fog and How to Manage It 40:52

8M ago40:52

40:52

Do you have trouble remembering things? Do you not think as quickly as you used to or as you would like? Does your memory or ability to focus often feel “foggy?” Do you think it may be caused by bipolar disorder? It could be your medication, or aging, or drinking, or something else entirely – but how do you know? Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole disc…

1
Host's Mom Shares Family Perspective of Bipolar 43:39

9M ago43:39

43:39

Bipolar disorder is difficult to manage and it doesn’t just affect the person with the disorder. The entire family is involved, often negatively. Unfortunately, more often than not, no one takes a greater hit than mothers. In this episode, our host Gabe Howard’s mom shares the early signs of bipolar disorder, what it was like to deal with teenage a…

1
In-Patient Hospitalizations: How to Stay Prepared 39:18

9M ago39:18

39:18

No one wants to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital, though being prepared could make it easier to manage. But how do you prepare for such a thing? Whether you have been admitted in the past or just want to feel better prepared for the possibility, this episode dives deep. Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole share advice on how to be legally prepared …

1
Alcohol’s Impact on Bipolar Disorder 44:27

10M ago44:27

44:27

In our society, alcoholic beverages are very common, and since people living with bipolar disorder are just like everyone else, they absorb the same messaging surrounding drinking. From the simple wedding toast to “wine o’clock” and “beer thirty” to celebrate the end of a long work day, imbibing a drink is as common as breathing. But is this the be…

1
Is Hypomania “Just” Less Severe Mania? 42:23

10M ago42:23

42:23

Often, when discussing hypomania in bipolar disorder, it is described as “just like mania, but not as severe.” To the uneducated populace, this creates the idea that hypomania is not as serious and, for all practical purposes, is basically “mania light.” But is that accurate? Is hypomania simply a lesser form of mania? Or are mania and hypomania tw…

1
5 People For Your Support Team (That You Coach) 39:37

11M ago39:37

39:37

Building a support system to help you manage bipolar disorder is easier said than done. In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole share that a support system is helpful and give hints and tips on how to build your team. They discuss who you should have on your support team and how to recruit them as well as who to avoid and why. They also share the five…

1
Families Seeking Forgiveness After Recovery (Part 2 of 2) 30:20

11M ago30:20

30:20

Last week, Gabe shared all the things his parents did wrong when it came to helping him manage his bipolar disorder. This week, he tells us some of the things his parents got right. Dr. Nicole shares how many of her patients have tried to reconnect with estranged family members, and they both discuss ways to bring people back together. An inspiring…

1
Want More Episodes of A Bipolar, a Schizophrenic, and a Podcast? 0:44

11M ago0:44

0:44

Lots of podcasts are hosted by doctors and other mental health professionals. The podcasting space is filled with them because that is who major networks often hire. But who is helping to elevate the patient voice? Short answer? They're counting on you. What We Need & What You Get In order to have a Season 4 (they've done over 100 episodes in the p…

1
Families Are Complicated and Bipolar Doesn’t Help (Part 1 of 2) 37:35

11M ago37:35

37:35

Our host, Gabe Howard, frequently shares how his parents “did everything wrong” when getting him help for bipolar disorder. He has shared the fractures in his family, the misunderstandings, and the conflict in multiple past episodes. In this episode, we dive into some of the specifics of his parent’s missteps and touch on what they could have done …

1
Second Opinion for Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis 45:24

12M ago45:24

45:24

Receiving a diagnosis of any major medical condition is scary. A bipolar disorder diagnosis can be even scarier. Many people may disagree, wondering if the doctor is correct. Should you seek a second opinion and, if so, what if another doctor or mental health professional has a different perspective? Would you benefit from hearing it? Join us as Ga…

1
Mania Stay and Depression Go? Treatment Options for Bipolar Symptoms 38:01

1y ago38:01

38:01

Most of us want to get rid of depressive periods, but we aren’t as sold on getting rid of manic periods. And why should we be? Why won’t doctors just do what we want and relieve our depression while not messing with the often incredibly enjoyable symptom of mania? Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole explain why the disorder — and the human body — just d…

1
Using Supplements to Treat Bipolar Disorder 40:05

1y ago40:05

40:05

Are you interested in the pros and cons of using over-the-counter supplements to treat bipolar disorder? Some people are curious about them and others feel they are equivalent to prescription medications. But, what’s the reality? Join Gabe and Dr. Nicole as they share the potential pitfalls of using supplements as a front-line treatment and discuss…

1
Are Routines Helpful to Manage Bipolar Disorder? 38:10

1y ago38:10

38:10

Many of us have been told that maintaining a consistent routine is the key to living well with bipolar disorder. But does that ever annoy you? Does it feel like you’re being treated like a child? After all, the idea of having a routine sounds like something a toddler does, not an adult. Listen as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss what the concept of rout…

1
Is Mania Always Happy? All About Dysphoric Mania 41:39

1y ago41:39

41:39

Our host, Gabe Howard, often remarks that mania has the best public relations team in the world. Why else would mania be described as an unbelievable feeling of well-being and pure bliss? It seems mania is only ever discussed as an overwhelming positive experience. For many people, mania doesn’t include a euphoric feeling — prompting the question, …

1
Is Overeating an Example of Self-Medication? 47:06

1y ago47:06

47:06

Our host, Gabe Howard, used to weigh over 550 pounds. These days, he maintains a healthier weight — and has done so for over 20 years. Many people, including Gabe, feel that binge eating is an example of self-medicating. Using something — in this case food — to mask the symptoms of bipolar disorder. If you feel that you may binge-eat as a way to de…

1
Can Cannabis / Marijuana Treat Bipolar Disorder? 38:27

1y ago38:27

38:27

What about medical marijuana as a treatment for bipolar disorder? Now that cannabis is legal in many states, many people want to try smoking as a primary treatment method. Realistically, even before cannabis was legalized and regulated, people touted its benefits as a treatment of all kinds of mental health issues from depression to psychosis. But …

1
What Is Rapid Cycling? (And What We Often Get Wrong) 37:10

1y ago37:10

37:10

Are you depressed in the morning and manic in the evening? Do you think that means you are a “rapid cycler”? What if it turns out that’s not the definition at all? Listen in as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss what rapid cycling is — and is not. As an added bonus, Dr. Nicole will tell us all about ultra rapid cycling and even ultra ultra rapid cycling. …

1
Mom Shares How Childbirth Led to Bipolar Diagnosis 48:12

1+ y ago48:12

48:12

About 50% of women with bipolar disorder receive their diagnosis after the birth of a child — during the postpartum period. Despite that large number, there is little information available on the possibility of pregnancy triggering an initial episode of mania or other symptoms of bipolar. Jessica Ekhoff joins us as the first guest of Inside Bipolar…

1
How Can I Tell If My Child Has Bipolar Disorder? 37:03

1+ y ago37:03

37:03

Bipolar disorder does have a genetic component, meaning if you have bipolar, your children are at an increased risk of having it themselves. But what does that mean on a practical basis? How do you know if your child actually has bipolar or if you might be seeing something that isn’t there? Is the “symptom” you see an indicator or just normal teena…

1
Does Hollywood Portray Life with Bipolar Accurately? 36:42

1+ y ago36:42

36:42

Even though we all know that movies are fictional, alien robots don’t exist, and no one has magic powers, we often think pop culture portrayals of people with bipolar disorder — which are often negative — are accurate. In rare cases when people with bipolar disorder are shown as being successful, they are unrealistically successful — genius crime f…

1
Owning Our Mistakes Caused by Bipolar Symptoms 38:32

1+ y ago38:32

38:32

We have probably done things we’re not proud of while in the midst of a bipolar episode. But it isn’t our fault, right? After all, bipolar disorder isn’t our fault. Listen in as Gabe and Dr. Nicole explain why thinking that way could negatively impact your relationships and life. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official …

1
Managing Marriage and Bipolar Disorder 41:08

1+ y ago41:08

41:08

We have talked a lot on this show about dating and how to start a relationship when you have bipolar disorder. But what about if you are already in one? What about those of us who aren’t dating, but are already married or in a long-term relationship? Tune in as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss ways to manage your condition in the context of your relatio…

1
Is Happiness Possible with Bipolar? 34:50

1+ y ago34:50

34:50

Are you happy? No matter your answer, you might be asking the wrong question. Is happiness an emotion, a state of being, a destination, or an achievement? It turns out that happiness is not as cut and dry as we’ve been led to believe. Listen as Gabe and Dr. Nicole answer the surprisingly nuanced question: “Can people with bipolar disorder be happy?…

1
Stopping Bipolar Mania Before It Starts 43:02

1+ y ago43:02

43:02

It isn’t always possible to prevent a manic episode, but in today’s episode, we discuss possible techniques to try and stop mania in its tracks. Bipolar disorder is a cyclical illness and it’s important to remember that despite our best efforts, we can fall into mania. Join us as Dr. Nicole and Gabe discuss some strategies for preventing mania and …

1
Defeating Depression with Bipolar Disorder 38:25

1+ y ago38:25

38:25

You can do everything “right” and still find yourself in a depressive episode. This is largely because bipolar disorder is a cyclical illness. But what are some things you can do to minimize your chances or to break free? Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole give us some tips for recognizing, heading off, and even pulling out of a depressive episode. To …

1
Should You Tell Kids About Your Bipolar Diagnosis? 41:52

1+ y ago41:52

41:52

Should we tell children about a loved one's (or our own) bipolar disorder diagnosis? Just like discussing sex with children, talking with kids about mental illness is fraught with difficulty. But does it need to be? In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss when kids are old enough to be told, what you should tell them, and why it may be dangero…

1
Is Mania a Good or Bad Symptom of Bipolar Disorder? 37:01

1+ y ago37:01

37:01

“Mania has the best public relations team in the world” is Gabe's favorite “Gabe-ism.” It seems like everyone with bipolar disorder invariably remembers it as an amazing awe-inspiring time. Society, too, romanticizes mania, thinking about it often in positive ways. But is mania really that great or is this another example of bipolar disorder lying …

1
Surviving Family Gatherings While Managing Bipolar 36:23

1+ y ago36:23

36:23

It is that time of year again: time to get with your extended family for the holidays. If you are not looking forward to it, join the club. A lot of people with bipolar disorder — and a lot of people in general — have trouble navigating complicated family dynamics. Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole shares some tips and tricks on getting through the ho…

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