The Hardcore Self Help Podcast with Duff the Psych

429: Coping with the Cruel World & Enduring Heartbreak

Jan 31, 2025

This episode tackles the serious impact of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation on a trans man’s mental health. The discussion covers coping strategies for doomscrolling and the importance of finding supportive communities. It also dives deep into the heartbreak of losing a best friend due to unrequited love, providing insights on handling grief and regret. Practical tips for self-care and rebuilding one's life amidst emotional turmoil are highlighted, offering listeners validation and support through personal challenges.

29:27

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Quick takeaways

Effective coping strategies for individuals facing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation include community building, setting intentional news consumption routines, and prioritizing mental health.

Processing heartbreak from lost friendships involves acknowledging feelings, utilizing journaling for emotional clarity, and seeking support from others to facilitate healing.

Deep dives

Coping with Anti-LGBT Sentiment

The fear and anxiety surrounding the current anti-LGBT sentiment and new legislation can be overwhelming for individuals impacted by such societal changes. Many experience panic attacks and feelings of hopelessness, largely due to the potential loss of access to critical healthcare like hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It's crucial to normalize these struggles and highlight the importance of authentic living, emphasizing that losing access to gender-affirming care can have dire consequences on mental health. Suggestions for coping include considering relocation to more supportive environments, fostering connection with community groups, and prioritizing mental well-being by avoiding isolation.

Intro

2min

Navigating Fear and Uncertainty as a Trans Individual

4min

Navigating Marginalization and Mental Health in a Hostile World

4min

Navigating the News: Strategies for Emotional Well-Being

4min

Navigating Heartbreak and Healing

15min

In this solo Q&A episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I answer two deeply personal and important listener questions. The first comes from a trans man struggling with the impact of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, fear for his safety, and overwhelming feelings of hopelessness. We talk about tangible ways to navigate the stress of doomscrolling, finding community, and taking back control in uncertain times.

The second question dives into the pain of heartbreak—specifically, the loss of a best friend after unrequited love. I discuss how to process grief, handle regret, and move forward when a relationship changes in ways you didn’t expect. Whether you're facing fear, loss, or uncertainty, this episode offers support, validation, and practical steps to help you through it.

Chapters:

00:00 — Intro: You Are Seen, You Are Valid 02:00 — Shoutout to the Finch App: A Fun Self-Care Tool 03:00 — Coping with Fear & Uncertainty as a Trans Person in a Hostile Climate 10:30 — Managing Doomscrolling & Social Media Overwhelm 14:00 — The Importance of Community & Seeking Safe Spaces 18:00 — Mental Health Resources & Seeking Support 19:00 — Handling Unrequited Love & The Pain of Heartbreak 22:30 — Why You’re Not to Blame for How Things Changed 24:00 — Navigating Grief & Loss in Relationships 27:30 — The Power of Solo Time & Rebuilding Your Life 29:00 — Closing Thoughts & Next Episode Preview

Resources & Links:

• Finch App – A self-care companion that makes mental health a little more fun! Download here • Trans Lifeline – www.translifeline.org | (877) 565-8860 • The Trevor Project – www.thetrevorproject.org | Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth • Find a Therapist – www.psychologytoday.com

About the Podcast

I’m Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist and the host of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast. My goal is to break down mental health topics into real, relatable, and actionable advice. Whether it's tackling anxiety, navigating personal challenges, or discussing the latest in psychology, I’m here to help you thrive.

Connect With Me:

🌐 Website: www.duffthepsych.com 📷 Instagram: @duffthepsych 🎥 YouTube: Dr. Duff’s Channel

💙 If this episode resonates with you, please rate & review the podcast, and share it with someone who might need it. You are not alone.

#MentalHealth #LGBTQSupport #Heartbreak #CopingSkills #SelfCare #Doomscrolling #HardcoreSelfHelp

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The Hardcore Self Help Podcast with Duff the Psych

429: Coping with the Cruel World & Enduring Heartbreak