Psych Health and Safety Podcast USA

Dive into Episode #136 of the Psych Health and Safety USA Podcast, featuring host Dr. I. David Daniels, PhD, CSD, VPS, and special guest Jesslyn McCutcheon, a mental health counselor and author about lived experience living with bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder affects approximately 5.7 million adult Americans, or about 2.6% of the U.S. population age 18 and older every year. Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood swings can affect sleep, energy, behavior, and the ability to think clearly. People with bipolar disorder can experience intense emotional states, which can include episodes of feeling overly happy and energized and, at other times, feeling very sad, hopeless, and sluggish. These episodes can vary in duration and frequency. However, with proper treatment and management, individuals with bipolar disorder can lead fulfilling and productive lives. Jessyln will not only speak about her experience but share a bit about her new book “Fighting Goliath’” which chronicles her experience dealing with the giant in her life, bipolar disorder.

Dive into Episode #135 of the Psych Health and Safety USA Podcast, featuring host Dr. I. David Daniels, PhD, CSD, VPS, and special guest Sahca Thompson. Ms. Thompson was a guest on Episode 32 and now returns to discuss the DEI backlash that has manifested in the past few years. The backlash against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts can be attributed to several factors: · Some people misunderstand DEI initiatives, believing they lead to reverse discrimination or exclusion rather than fostering true inclusion. · Some employees perceive that DEI initiatives benefit certain groups at the expense of others, leading to feelings of being left out or disadvantaged. · DEI efforts have become politicized, with some viewing them as part of a broader cultural or ideological agenda. · Early enthusiasm for DEI sometimes led to rushed implementations and vague definitions, which failed to address deeper systemic issues. · Organizations fear lawsuits and financial repercussions, leading some to scale back or quietly continue DEI efforts without publicizing them.

Dive into Episode #134 of the Psych Health and Safety USA Podcast, featuring host Dr. I. David Daniels, PhD, CSD, VPS, and special guest Marcus Rasberry, a Risk Manager at Amerisure Insurance. Marcus will address a number of aspects of insurance, including the connection between commercial and residential insurance and insurance rates. Though currently focused on risk management, Marcus utilizes his safety background to provide a more holistic approach to risk management in general and insurance coverage specifically.

Dive into Episode #133 of the Psych Health and Safety USA Podcast, featuring host Dr. I. David Daniels, PhD, CSD, VPS, and special guest Jasim Pierre, the creator and developer of the Safe Place App. Having experienced mental health challenges for the majority of her life, Jasmin’s experience in the mental health care system has not only been traumatic; she described mental health care as “policed.” She believes this to be particularly true for members of the black community. However, instead of simply adjusting, Jasim decided to create something to help her and others. Jasim created “The Safe Place” app specifically for the Black Community. African Americans are 20% more likely to experience serious mental health problems than the rest of the general population. However, many Black people still do not wish to seek professional help for their mental illnesses. Jasim has become an advocate and speaker on the inadequacies of the mental health care system. Through this app, Jasmin is helping the mental health community understand some of the various issues that Black people can face and better ways to help.

Dive into Episode #132 of the Psych Health and Safety USA Podcast, featuring host Dr. I. David Daniels, PhD, CSD, VPS, and special guest Mat Jeanius, a Marriage and Family Therapist who is both black and male. This episode begins our celebration of Black History Month. Due to their personal and cultural experiences, black therapists bring a unique perspective to their practice. They can offer a deeper understanding of the challenges and systemic issues that clients of similar backgrounds face, such as racial discrimination, cultural identity, and social inequities. This cultural competence can help build stronger rapport and trust with clients who feel understood and validated in their experiences. Moreover, Black male therapists often serve as powerful role models, challenging stereotypes and promoting positive mental health within their communities. Their presence in the therapeutic field can help address the underrepresentation of Black professionals and encourage more open conversations about mental health, especially among Black men and boys. Mat will talk about his experience as a therapist as well as some of what his cultural heritage and service bring to his view regarding mental health.

Dive into Episode #131 of the Psych Health and Safety USA Podcast, featuring host Dr. I. David Daniels, PhD, CSD, VPS, and special guest Jackie Garrick, the founder of Whistleblowers of America, who discusses the concept of whistle-blowing, the value that it creates for organizations, and how it can fortify psychological health and safety. Individuals who choose to blow the whistle encounter various risks, including retaliation from employers, which may take the form of harassment or job termination, as well as possible blacklisting in their industry, complicating efforts to secure future employment. They may face legal actions, damaging their reputations and impacting their professional and personal relationships. Financial burdens also pose a concern, as whistleblowing often results in lost wages and significant legal expenses. Moreover, the emotional and psychological impact of exposing wrongdoing can be profound, potentially leading to stress and anxiety. Nevertheless, whistleblowers play a vital role in fostering accountability and uncovering misconduct, and some legal protections and incentives are available to help alleviate these challenges. Whistleblowers of America was created to support those who need it in the sometimes complex pursuit of what they believe is right.

Dive into Episode #130 of the Psych Health and Safety USA Podcast, featuring host Dr. I. David Daniels, PhD, CSD, VPS, and special guest Andy Kearney, with deep experience in higher education, who focused on not just the academic success of students but on a journey that considers their psychological health and safety as well. Andy is a graduate of Georgia State University and a member of their Alumni Association Board of Directors. Psychological health and safety is crucial for college students for several reasons: · Mental Well-being: College life can be stressful, with academic pressures, social dynamics, and possibly being away from home for the first time. Maintaining good psychological health helps students manage stress and anxiety. · Academic Performance: Mental health significantly impacts cognitive functions like concentration, memory, and problem-solving. Students with good psychological health are more likely to perform well academically. · Social Relationships: Healthy psychological well-being helps students build and maintain positive relationships with peers, faculty, and family. It also fosters a supportive and inclusive campus environment. · Safety and Prevention: Ensuring psychological safety helps prevent issues like depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. Colleges with robust mental health support systems can identify and assist students in need more effectively. · Inclusive Environment: Promoting psychological health creates an inclusive and supportive campus culture where all students can thrive, regardless of their background or personal challenges. Andy will share his passion for student success, his journey as a first-generation college student and the child of immigrants, and some of the stories of students he has worked with.

Dive into Episode #129 of the Psych Health and Safety USA Podcast, featuring host Dr. I. David Daniels, PhD, CSD, VPS, and special guest Dr. Olga Morawczynski, founder of Heal-3, a published author and recognized wellbeing expert. Dr. Morawwczynski has dedicated her career to advancing the field of corporate well-being and mental health. With over 20 published papers and a PhD from the University of Edinburgh, her expertise is grounded in extensive research and practical experience. She has committed herself to understanding the complexities of workplace wellness and crafting innovative solutions that make a real difference. In this conversation, Dr. Daniels and Dr. Morawwczynski will discuss some of the emerging research on psychological health and safety that has been conducted to help make the business case for more action in the workplace.

Dive into Episode #128 of the Psych Health and Safety USA Podcast, featuring host Dr. I. David Daniels, PhD, CSD, VPS, and special guest Treena Reilkoff, a former clinical social worker who not only coaches and consults in the psychological health and safety space. Treena shares her views on trauma-informed psychological health and safety practices. Being trauma-informed means recognizing the widespread impact of trauma and understanding potential paths for recovery. It means recognizing the signs and symptoms of trauma in others, integrating this knowledge into practices, and striving to avoid re-traumatization. It's about creating a supportive environment where people feel safe and respected and promoting healing. The fundamental principles of a trauma-informed approach to psychological health and safety include: • Ensuring physical and emotional safety for everyone involved. • Building trust • Encouraging mutual support and shared experiences • Promoting teamwork and equal participation in decision-making • Empowering individuals by giving them a voice and choice in their care. • Recognizing and addressing the impact of cultural, historical, and gender issues on trauma Ms. Reilkoff suggests that not only do we all have an experience of being “trauma-exposed,” but we should use a trauma-informed approach as a universal precaution when considering psychological health and safety.

Dive into Episode #127 of the Psych Health and Safety USA Podcast, featuring host Dr. I. David Daniels, PhD, CSD, VPS, and special guest Juliette Gust, a forensic accountant, experienced fraud investigator, rCo-Founder & President of Ethics Suite, a Hotline Reporting Intake & Case Management System. Reporting misconduct can be quite challenging due to a variety of factors: · Fear of Retaliation: Whistleblowers often worry about losing their jobs, facing demotion, or experiencing harassment from colleagues or superiors. · Isolation: Speaking out against wrongdoing can lead to social isolation within the workplace, as peers may distance themselves to avoid association with the whistleblower. · Psychological Stress: The process of whistleblowing can be emotionally draining, causing anxiety, stress, and mental health issues. · Lack of Protection: Not all organizations or countries have strong legal protections for whistleblowers, making it risky. · Doubts About Impact: Whistleblowers may fear that their efforts will not lead to meaningful change or that their concerns will be ignored or dismissed. Ethics Suite is a system that allow misconduct reporting to go through a third party to help not only collet and record reporting, but to help build trust in the orgazantion’s willness to address issues.