The Rehab

Dr. Nicholas Kardaras is recognized as a leading expert in the field of addiction psychology, a reputation earned through his pioneering investigations into a pressing concern of the modern social landscape. His journey into this area of expertise is a personal one; having battled and overcome substance addiction himself, he proudly stands with 24 years of personal recovery experience.Kardaras has been an integral part of the mental health community, working within treatment centers, overseeing programs, and imparting knowledge as a professor at Stony Brook Medicine. About a decade ago, his keen observations led him to identify an alarming trend: individuals of all ages, from children to adults, were increasingly exhibiting signs of addictive behavior triggered by the digital world—ranging from gaming-related psychosis to social media-induced indoctrination.Dr. Kardaras continues to distinguish himself through a deep commitment to understanding and combatting the digital dependencies that threaten the well-being of society. His story is one of personal triumph and professional dedication, a combination that allows him to serve as both a witness and a warrior in the fight against addiction.In this episode, we explore the digital world’s darkest corners with our esteemed guest, Dr. Nicholas Kardaras. As an expert on digital addiction, Dr. Kardaras brings to light the shocking truths about social media’s impact on mental health, particularly among adolescents.We’ll explore lawsuits aimed at making tech giants accountable for toxic content and discuss why these platforms’ algorithms could be seen as complicit in the growing mental health crisis.Join us as we compare the influence of tech companies with that of drug dealers, dissect the intentional and addictive design of online platforms, and consider the troubling effects on developing minds.Dr. Kardaras, a psychologist with firsthand recovery experience, will share chilling insights from his books, including "Digital Madness," on how screen time can lead to physical, psychological, and social detriments.Prepare for a candid conversation about the modern tech landscape, the urgent need for age-appropriate tech use, and strategies for building a healthier, more resilient next generation.It’s a timely discussion that calls for critical thinking, moderation, and a revolution in our relationship with technology.Please visit Dr. Kardaras here: https://www.drkardaras.com/Please visit our websites here: https://therehab.com and https://drleeds.com.

Dr. Lloyd I. Sederer, MD, is a distinguished psychiatrist, public health expert, and prolific non-fiction author. He is an Adjunct Professor at the Columbia University School of Public Health. He has served as as the Chief Medical Officer/Executive Vice President of McLean Hospital, a Harvard teaching hospital; Mental Health Commissioner of New York City (in the Bloomberg administration); and Chief Medical Officer of the New York State Office of Mental Health, the nation's largest state Mental Health Agency, Dr. Sederer has played pivotal roles in shaping mental health policies and responses. He's renowned for leading major mental health disaster responses, notably for the events of September 11th and the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Dr. Sederer has been recognized with numerous awards, such as the Doctor of the Year award from The National Council on Behavioral Health; he has also served as a Rockefeller Foundation Scholar in Residence and received the Exemplary Psychiatrist Award from the National Alliance on Mental Illness.His professional association, the American Psychiatric Association (APA), named him Psychiatric Administrator of the Year, and in a different year, he received the APA's award for Excellence in Teaching Residents. Dr. Sederer has published 14 books, the first seven for medical professionals (two with multiple editions) and, more recently, seven for a general audience.He has published approximately 500 articles for print and online publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Scientific American, The Lancet, Medscape, The Atlantic, The Tennessean, Commonweal, and US News and World Report (where he wrote an Opinion column). He was Medical Editor for Mental Health at the HuffPost, where more than 100 of his articles, audios, and videos appeared.Currently, he is a Contributing Writer for Psychology Today (with more than 100 articles to his name), Psychiatric Times, and The New York Journal of Books.Dr. Sederer lives in Concord, New Hampshire, with his wife and dog. His extensive expertise makes him a compelling guest for our podcast, where we'll explore his insights on mental health, public health, and the evolving landscape of healthcare.In this episode of "The Rehab," host Mark Leeds, D.O., and guest Lloyd Sederer, M.D., engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the complexities of the American healthcare system. Dr. Sederer, a distinguished psychiatrist and public health expert, sheds light on the challenges faced within the industry, drawing from his extensive experience.The conversation touches on various issues, from the influence of for-profit corporations to the impact on patient care and the healthcare workforce. Dr. Sederer shares compelling insights from his latest book, "Caught in the Crosshairs of American Healthcare," where he outlines the pervasive influence of profit-driven entities and offers potential solutions for patients, healthcare professionals, and the judicial system.Join Mark Leeds and Dr. Lloyd Sederer as they delve into this critical analysis of the American healthcare landscape and explore actionable measures to address its complexities.Visit Dr. Lloyd Sederer at https://askdrlloyd.com. Please visit our websites here: https://therehab.com and https://drleeds.com.

Welcome back to another captivating episode of The Rehab, where we explore the depths of personal growth, self-reflection, and overcoming addiction. In this highly anticipated installment, host Mark Leeds, D.O., welcomes esteemed guest Lorraine Nilon, spiritual explorer and author. Join us as we delve into the profound journey of reconnecting with our inner truth, embracing authenticity, and navigating the complexities of recovery.In this episode, Mark and Lorraine dive deep into the importance of acknowledging and honoring our emotions, shedding light on the fear and resistance many individuals face when confronted with their true selves. Together, they highlight the detrimental effects of suppressing emotions and carrying negative beliefs and baggage, emphasizing the crucial role of self-reflection in the recovery process.Lorraine's unique perspective on spirituality brings a whole new dimension to the discussion. Drawing from personal encounters with the supernatural, she discusses her belief in experiences beyond the physical world and the significance of individual souls within the vastness of the universe. Through exploration and a personal relationship with the unknown, Lorraine encourages listeners to go beyond belief systems and develop a friendship with the mysterious.The conversation takes an illuminating turn as Mark recounts his own journey and realization that he is meant to work independently rather than for others. Layered with personal anecdotes and insights, he shares his transition into podcasting and the profound sense of fulfillment he derives from sharing information through this powerful medium.Throughout the episode, Lorraine's expertise in helping people through the recovery process shines through. She provides valuable wisdom and practical advice, reminding us of the importance of finding what resonates with us individually, rather than succumbing to societal expectations or belief systems that do not align with our own truth.As the conversation unfolds, Lorraine delves into the transformative power of self-reflection and its role in nurturing personal growth and finding inner peace. She speaks passionately about her work with childhood abuse victims and addiction to victimhood, offering valuable insights on understanding oneself, addressing deep-seated emotions, and cultivating a sense of purpose in life.Listeners will also learn about Lorraine's remarkable online course for self-reflection, currently running a special until December, as well as her podcast, "Lorraine Nilon, spiritual explorer," where she continues to guide and inspire others on their journey of self-discovery.So, make sure to tune in to this thought-provoking episode, as Mark Leeds and Lorraine Nilon guide us through the labyrinthine paths of recovery, reconnecting, and rejuvenation. Get ready to embark on an awe-inspiring exploration of the human spirit and find solace in the power that lies within you. Stay tuned!Visit Lorraine Nilon here: https://lorrainenilon.com.au/And please visit Dr. Mark Leeds here: https://drleeds.com and at our podcast website: https://therehab.com

Welcome back to The Rehab, the podcast dedicated to exploring innovative approaches to healing and recovery. In today's episode, titled "Dr. Ladan Eshkevari of Avesta Ketamine Wellness on How Ketamine Works to Help With Brain Healing," we are joined by the esteemed Dr. Ladan Eshkevari, a renowned expert in the field of ketamine therapy.Our host, Mark Leeds, D.O., delves into the fascinating realm of ketamine and its potential benefits for brain healing. Dr. Eshkevari, with her background in anesthesia, acupuncture, and Chinese medicine, brings a unique perspective to the discussion as she sheds light on the mechanisms behind ketamine's effects on mood disorders and chronic pain.Throughout this episode, you'll discover how ketamine can be a powerful tool in helping patients taper off medications, address chronic pain in Lyme disease patients, and even alleviate symptoms of withdrawal for those struggling with Benzodiazepine dependence. Dr. Eshkevari also emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to healing, incorporating lifestyle changes, nutrition, and ongoing therapy to maintain the positive effects of ketamine treatments.Join us as we dive into the world of ketamine therapy and explore the potential it holds for brain healing and overall well-being. Stay tuned for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Ladan Eshkevari of Avesta Ketamine Wellness on this intriguing episode of The Rehab!Please visit Dr. Eshkevari at https://avestaketaminewellness.com/.Also, if you find this material interesting and helpful, please visit our podcast website and practice website here:https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com.

Michael Eon is a recovering alcoholic and addict who found solace in writing during his journey towards sobriety. As part of the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous, Michael embarked on a moral inventory, which led him to reflect on his past and childhood memories.These recollections triggered powerful emotions of anger and rage as he confronted the consequences of his actions. Encouraged by his wife, Michael began journaling these experiences, eventually shaping them into an experimental story that reflected his personal struggles and the conversations he had with his inner voice.His story evolved into a final book that draws from both his active addiction and recovery experiences. This book will not only resonate with individuals dealing with addiction or alcoholism but also with anyone seeking valuable principles of self-reflection and personal growth. With the release of his book, Michael eagerly awaits the opportunity to share his story and inspire readers to embark on their own transformative journeys.Please visit Michael Eon here: https://www.michaeleonauthor.com/Also, if you find this interview interesting, please visit our websites: https://therehab.com and https://drleeds.com.Thank you!

Dr. Steven Reichbach, a renowned expert in ketamine therapy, shares remarkable insights on the transformative potential of ketamine for treating suicidality, CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome), and chronic pain.Dr. Reichbach begins by shedding light on the staggering statistics surrounding suicidality and the urgent need for innovative interventions. He delves into the surprising efficacy of ketamine, sharing how its unique neurochemical mechanisms initiate physical changes in the brain, providing hope for those in acute distress and reducing the reliance on inpatient treatment.But the journey doesn't stop there. Dr. Reichbach enlightens us on the complex nature of CRPS, a severely debilitating condition often misdiagnosed. He shares how ketamine therapy acts as both a diagnostic tool and a treatment approach, mitigating the excruciating pain and improving patients' overall well-being. The fascinating discussion unfolds, highlighting the remarkable potential of ketamine treatment for various chronic pain conditions.While exploring innovative treatment options, the conversation takes an intriguing turn towards the integration of ketamine therapy with medical cannabis. Driven by a patient-centric approach, Dr. Reichbach sheds light on the intersection of these two powerful therapies. He discusses how medical cannabis, when used appropriately and under supervision, can aid patients struggling with anxiety, chronic pain, and insomnia. Furthermore, he examines the positive impact of medical cannabis on the tapering process and withdrawal symptoms of other psychiatric medications.Join us in this riveting episode as we unveil the synergistic potential of ketamine therapy and medical cannabis, offering new hope to those coping with suicidality, CRPS, and chronic pain. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that challenges stigmas, uncovers powerful treatments, and explores the cutting-edge frontier of mental health and pain management.Disclaimer: The content discussed in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment options.Contact Dr. Reichbach here: https://www.findpainrelief.com/Please visit our websites: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com

Lewis S. Nelson, MD, is Board Certified in Emergency Medicine, Medical Toxicology, and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Nelson is the Professor and Chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine and the Chief of the Division of Medical Toxicology. His career includes pivotal roles in the American Board of Emergency Medicine, the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education, and the Association of Academic Chairs in Emergency Medicine.In this conversation, we delve into the pressing issue of opioid use disorder and the novel strategies employed to treat it. Buprenorphine induction forms the cornerstone of our discussion. Dr. Nelson discusses the application of techniques such as micro-dosing and macro-dosing and how they are shifting paradigms in opioid use disorder treatment. We also navigate the pros and cons of these innovative solutions, and how they outperform older induction methods, particularly in an era where fentanyl—a lipophilic opioid that tends to be stored in fat cells—dominates the street opioid landscape.Dr. Nelson, with his wealth of experience as a consultant to various national organizations such as the CDC, FDA, and DHS, as well as an editor of the acclaimed textbook Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies, brings unparalleled insight into these complex discussions. Moreover, his first-hand experience providing direct clinical care to patients in the Emergency Department, coupled with his senior consultancy role with the New Jersey Poison Information & Education System, ensures a nuanced and patient-centric perspective on this complex issue.From understanding the maximization of buprenorphine's agonist effect in replacing potent opioids like fentanyl to examining the challenges of managing precipitated withdrawal, this episode offers an in-depth exploration of the latest strategies in combating opioid addiction. Dr. Nelson’s insights highlight the need for a complete transition concept in opioid substitution, the varying success rates of different medications, and the critical importance of long-term maintenance for patient recovery. So, whether you are a medical professional seeking to enhance your knowledge or an intrigued listener looking to understand more about the opioid epidemic's unfolding narrative, this episode promises to enlighten, inform, and provoke thought. Tune in and join us in this critical conversation with Dr. Lewis Nelson.Learn more about Dr. Nelson here: https://njms-web.njms.rutgers.edu/profile/myProfile.php?mbmid=ln196Please visit our websites here: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com

In this podcast episode, Dr. Leeds interviews David and Susan Kenney from Emergo Academy.The Kenneys discuss their coaching, training, certification, and education company, Emergo Academy. They specialize in helping people become recovery coaches and offer an international certification in recovery coaching. The Kenneys explain their brain-first approach to lasting recovery, which focuses on the five principles of physiological, psychology, spirit, connections, and lifestyle.They emphasize the importance of understanding the brain’s role in addiction and how it drives behavior. They debunk the idea that external methods like medications or stimulating the vagus nerve can effectively rewire the brain. Instead, they advocate for an experiential therapy approach that helps individuals release trauma and rewire their brains through action.The Kenneys also address misconceptions about addiction treatment and highlight the need for more specialized, certified recovery coaches within the healthcare system. They stress that recovery is a lifelong journey and aim to provide hope by focusing on individualized life plans rather than relapse prevention programs.The episode concludes with a discussion about their upcoming book “Actualized Recovery” and their goal to train 1,000 actualized recovery coach warriors within three years to make a significant impact on addiction recovery.Please visit Emergo Academy here: https://www.emergoacademy.com/

Welcome to the latest episode of The Rehab, where your host, Dr. Leeds, delves deep into the complex world of addiction treatment and recovery. This episode features a special guest, Dustin, an advocate for innovative recovery programs.Dr. Leeds and Dustin tackle the multifaceted aspects of addiction, shedding light on both traditional and alternative paths to recovery. They explore a range of programs, including the transformative Fit for Service, alongside more conventional rehab centers, supervised consumption sites, and the role of recovery coaches.The duo underscores the importance of trust and community in fostering a conducive environment for recovery. Dustin shares his firsthand experience with "circling," a communication technique that has helped him and many others strengthen their sense of belonging and mutual understanding in the recovery community.Dr. Leeds and Dustin dive into the psychological obstacles that often hinder commitment to recovery. They discuss how shame, fear, and other reservations can become formidable barriers, stressing the need to address not just the addiction, but also its root causes.In a candid comparison of various treatment programs, Dr. Leeds and Dustin examine the economic aspects of addiction treatment, providing listeners with a realistic perspective on the costs associated with each approach. Together, they advocate for innovative, cost-effective methods to tackle addiction, aiming to make recovery accessible for all.This episode of The Rehab offers an all-encompassing perspective on addiction treatment. Join Dr. Leeds and Dustin for an insightful discussion that sheds light on how to best support those battling addiction. Tune in for a comprehensive exploration into the realm of recovery, and discover the myriad ways we can facilitate this life-changing journey.Please visit our websites: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com

On this episode, we're exploring the world of medication withdrawal, benzodiazepine protracted withdrawal, and the difficulties associated with it. Our guest, Nicole Lamberson, shares her personal journey of surviving protracted withdrawal, involving long-term withdrawal symptoms, complicated by a lack of understanding of doctors, friends, and family. Her goal is to increase awareness of protracted withdrawal, the dangers of psych drugs, such as benzodiazepines, and the importance of informed consent between doctors and their patients. We also discuss various symptoms of protracted withdrawal, including histamine intolerance and how it might relate to some people experiencing "benzo belly." Additionally, we delve into the lack of information on how to taper off benzodiazepines and the lack of training for doctors in this area. Finally, we explore the influence of pharmaceutical companies on medical education and the importance of doctors being fully informed before prescribing medication. Join us as we discuss all these topics and more on this illuminating episode.Please visit our websites for more information: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com.To learn more about Medicating Normal, a film about iatrogenic injury and informed consent, which Nicole has helped to promote, please visit: https://medicatingnormal.com/.