Joan Striebel

Dr. Joan Striebel, a psychiatrist from the California Department of State Hospitals, dives deep into catatonia, a complex syndrome often misdiagnosed. She discusses different forms of catatonia, including retarded and excited types, and their connections to conditions like PTSD and bipolar disorder. The conversation emphasizes the crucial role of neurotransmitters and effective treatment options, particularly tailored benzodiazepines. Striebel also addresses the importance of clinician awareness to prevent misdiagnoses and improve patient outcomes.