The Psychology of Depression and Anxiety - Dr. Scott Eilers
Scott Eilers
There are people who understand depression and anxiety on a personal level and there are people who understand depression and anxiety on a medical level. There are relatively few people who understand both, and I’m one of them. As a clinical psychologist I have a doctorate degree and thousands of hours of professional experience providing treatment for mood and anxiety disorders. I also have 39 years of personal experience managing mood and anxiety disorders as I myself deal with these struggles. This podcast is my attempt to synthesize my personal knowledge with my professional knowledge.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 24, 2025 • 21min
How To Appreciate What You Have In Life Before You Lose It
Discover why we often overlook the value of what we have until it's gone. Explore practical techniques to enhance appreciation, from treating moments as if they’re the last to imagining the cost of cherished experiences. Learn to replicate the emotional states that made past moments special rather than trying to recreate them. Dive into humorous exercises like asking an imaginary butler for reminders and take inventory of what truly matters in life. Transform your outlook and embrace gratitude today!
6 snips
Dec 22, 2025 • 47min
Empty Depression, Social Isolation, Addiction, Broken Systems, and Moments That Saved Me
Explore the surprising ways depression manifests, regardless of success or stability. Delve into the complex relationship between fame, addiction, and mental health. Discover how purpose and connection can uplift even in dire circumstances. Learn why discipline needs meaning, and how unyielding self-discipline can backfire. Dr. Eilers shares personal insights on recovery and the challenges of accessing care in today's mental health system. Reflect on the nuances of social connections, and how substances may promise connection but often fall short.
Dec 19, 2025 • 32min
14 Tips To Survive The Holidays With Sanity (Mostly) Intact - From A Psychologist
Holidays can be tough on mental health, but you're not alone in feeling this way. Discover strategies for managing family stress, loneliness, and seasonal pressures. Learn the importance of setting boundaries and budgeting emotional energy to avoid burnout. Embrace new traditions and find joy in unexpected places, like a cozy Thanksgiving at McDonald's. Protect your routines with good sleep and nutrition while minimizing social media exposure. Remember, it's okay to step away and take breaks—prioritize your well-being!
Dec 13, 2025 • 46min
Psychologist’s 2026 Guide to PTSD and CPTSD
Discover the complexities of PTSD and how it differs from Complex PTSD. Learn about the neurobiology behind trauma and how it affects the body and brain. Delve into symptom categories and the often-misunderstood triggers that can provoke PTSD responses. Effective treatments like EMDR and TF-CBT are discussed, along with practical self-regulation tools you can start using right now. Plus, find out why context matters in diagnosis and how modifying your environment can aid in recovery.
Dec 8, 2025 • 17min
An Antidote To Suicide - Making A Violent Commitment To Living
Explore the journey of feeling like an unwanted guest in life and the impact of societal pressures on mental health. Discover the power of making a radical commitment to living instead of viewing suicide as a backup plan. Learn why typical coping strategies can fail when the pain feels unbearable. Hear about the importance of engaging with your thoughts and the transformative shift that comes from choosing life. Dr. Eilers shares his experience, offering hope for those navigating similar struggles.
Dec 5, 2025 • 13min
The Light Between The Leaves Book Preview (The Lake/Envy Is Ignorance)
Dive into a serene lake setting that conceals deeper, hidden dangers. The intriguing backstory explores family fishing rituals and a terrifying splash that reveals a lurking predator. Discover how this encounter reshapes perspectives on safety and envy. It’s a tale that challenges the notion of comparing lives, highlighting the unseen pressures we often ignore. Tune in for a reflective journey that connects personal experiences with broader lessons on mental health.
Dec 1, 2025 • 21min
Navigating The Grief Of A Broken Life
Explore the concept of ambiguous grief, which reflects the sadness over unrealized dreams and alternate selves. Discover how experiences like infertility or career setbacks contribute to this feeling. Learn effective coping strategies, including the importance of engaging with your current life. Understand the grief model where pain and time intersect, emphasizing that healing cannot be rushed. Acknowledge these emotions as valid and seek support—you're not alone in this journey.
Nov 24, 2025 • 27min
This Powerful, Unpredictable Tool Has Ended Many Of My Depressive Episodes
Dive into a discussion on how finding joy can break the cycle of depression. By exploring diverse passions, from gaming that rekindles excitement and football that enhances social bonds, to fitness showcasing self-improvement and gardening nurturing daily enthusiasm. Discover how hobbies like barbecue and tools foster a sense of accomplishment, while fragrances and watches inspire appreciation for beauty and craftsmanship. This enriching journey reveals how personal sparks can ignite joy and provide hope.
Nov 21, 2025 • 57min
The Future of Therapy and AI - with Jacob Ward
Jacob Ward, a tech journalist and author of The Loop, dives into the intersection of artificial intelligence and mental health. He discusses the shortcomings of AI therapy, highlighting how algorithms struggle to replicate human empathy. The conversation also explores the addictive nature of AI chatbots and the ethical concerns surrounding their use. Ward warns about emotional reliance on machines, the erosion of social skills, and the need for new clinical terminology to address AI's societal impacts. This insightful dialogue is crucial for anyone interested in the future of therapy.
Nov 17, 2025 • 19min
The Light Between The Leaves Book Preview (The Forest/Regrowth)
Discover the power of nature in shaping mental health as Dr. Eilers shares personal lessons learned from his childhood. He explores how the suppression of his true self led to darker times and destructive behaviors. A transformative trip to the forest reignites lost hope, motivating him to reclaim his identity. Learn about the importance of boundaries and nurturing regrowth in one's mental landscape. This vulnerable journey encourages listeners to reflect on their own paths toward healing and belonging.
