How to Talk with Your Psychiatrist: Bridging the Communication Gap

Does your psychiatrist really understand what you're going through? Navigating conversations with your psychiatrist and other professionals helping you manage your mental health can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole Washington tackle the communication disconnect between patients and mental health professionals. Learn why vague terms like "nervous breakdown" can hinder your treatment and how to provide the specific details your doctor needs to help you effectively.

They discuss the importance of sharing family mental health history, breaking down symptoms, and offering clear examples — even if you don’t know clinical terms. Packed with practical advice, this conversation will empower you to self-advocate, build stronger doctor-patient relationships, and get the care you deserve. Whether you're living with bipolar disorder or another mental health condition, this episode is an essential guide to speaking the same language as your healthcare professionals. Tune in and take the first step toward a stronger partnership with your psychiatrist and clearer, more effective communication!

Cold Open Transcript: 

Gabe: Although I imagine from your vantage point, Dr. Nicole not annoying your psychiatrist is probably a pretty damn good reason. [Laughter]

Dr. Nicole: [Laughter] I mean, annoy is a strong word. I don't know if it annoys me.

Gabe: Fair.

Dr. Nicole: I don't know that I'm annoyed when people come in not knowing these things or not being able to communicate these things. It just lets me know that I have a lot of work to do, that I have to be the one to do that education that was missed somewhere along the way.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please see the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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