Mental Illness Happy Hour #780 Best Of - Janet Varney (Our Very 1st Ep)
Dec 26, 2025
Janet Varney, an actress and comedian known for her roles in television and voice acting, opens up about her journey with anxiety and panic attacks. She shares her childhood experiences, reflecting on her parents' divorce and the early signs of her struggles. Janet recounts her college panic episodes, coping strategies, and the importance of finding a validating therapist. They discuss the cycle of panic, medication experiences, and the significance of self-affirmation. Her insights on gratitude and creative partnerships highlight the path toward recovery.
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Podcasting To Bridge A Mental-Health Gap
- Paul started the podcast to fill a gap where mental health was discussed with nuance and humor rather than extremes.
- He saw storytelling and humor as complements to vulnerability, not replacements.
Crisis After Stopping Medication
- Paul described going off his meds, crashing into severe depression, then recognizing it and feeling better three days after restarting medication.
- That experience motivated him to create space for conversations about medication and recovery.
Sensitivity Fuels Extreme Swings
- Janet observed that highly sensitive people experience extreme highs and crushing lows, which can drive obsessive behaviors and addiction.
- Seeking external fixes for mood swings often becomes problematic.