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
Feb 10, 2025 • 13min
Why You Have To Face Your Fears
Avoiding fears only amplifies anxiety and stress. The fear of the unknown can trap us in inaction, particularly concerning health and finances. Facing fears transforms them into manageable challenges. The discussion includes relatable examples, like horror films, that illustrate how confronting fears leads to problem-solving and confidence. Practical strategies are shared to help overcome anxiety through direct engagement with what frightens us, ultimately guiding us to reclaim our peace and control.
Feb 6, 2025 • 26min
A day in the life of severe depression and anxiety recovery
Explore the daily routines that help manage severe depression and anxiety, emphasizing the power of consistency. Discover how a mindful morning can transform your day, focusing on self-care and reduced screen time. Learn about compassionate self-communication as a tool against negative thoughts and societal pressures. Nourishing habits like meal prep and proper hydration are key for emotional balance. Finally, reflect on daily positive moments to counter negativity, fostering a nurturing environment for mental wellness.
5 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 20min
Why bed rotting is bad for your mental health and 6 ways to stop
Bed rotting might seem like a cozy form of self-care, but it actually worsens anxiety and depression. The constant pressure for productivity can lead to burnout, making this trend a dangerous escape. It's crucial to break the cycle of avoidance and self-shame. The discussion highlights six effective strategies to promote healthier habits and improve mental wellness. Discover proactive alternatives to simply staying in bed, and learn to prioritize mental health through engagement and self-compassion.
Jan 27, 2025 • 12min
The Lies Your Mind Tells You About Shame And Failure
Dive into the tangled web of memory as two siblings recall a fishing accident differently, highlighting how our minds curate past experiences. Explore a teenage sleepover filled with shame that reshapes self-perception. Discover how negativity bias skews our view of achievements versus failures. The discussion reveals the importance of balancing strengths and weaknesses to develop a healthier self-concept. Reflect on the tendency to amplify personal shortcomings while downplaying others' faults, urging a more realistic outlook on life.
Jan 23, 2025 • 15min
4 “Toxic” Behaviors That Improved My Mental Health
Discover how redefining 'toxic' behaviors can improve mental health in surprising ways. Learn the importance of personal well-being for supporting loved ones and how your emotional stability has a ripple effect on those around you. Delve into the therapeutic benefits of physical activity, highlighting its role in enhancing emotional regulation. This enlightening discussion encourages listeners to prioritize their mental wellness routines, even if it means sacrificing family time for exercise.
Jan 20, 2025 • 15min
The One Thing Nobody Tells You About Mental Health Recovery
Quick fixes for mental health can actually hinder your progress. The self-help industry's unrealistic promises set you up for disappointment. Discover four mindset shifts that can lead to lasting change. Small, manageable adjustments are essential in recovery. Embracing patience and consistency is key to overcoming challenges. The journey may be tough, but it can result in significant improvements over time.
7 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 21min
The Year I Gave Up On Life - And How I Came Back From It
The speaker reflects on their junior year filled with isolation and mental health struggles. They recount finding solace in early online music culture and forming emotional ties with a band. A pivotal moment comes with the band's breakup, leading to deep feelings of loss. However, a nostalgic journey back to childhood brings small joys that spark hope. This candid narrative emphasizes that even tiny connections can lay the groundwork for true transformation and resilience in the face of despair.
Jan 13, 2025 • 16min
The Counterintuitive Truth About Failure That Changed My Life
Success isn't about avoiding failure; it's about pushing your limits and discovering true potential. The host shares personal stories from weightlifting that illustrate the value of controlled failure for growth. They emphasize challenging self-imposed boundaries to unlock hidden capabilities. Additionally, the importance of self-validation in overcoming negative beliefs tied to anxiety and depression is discussed. Practical strategies are offered to transform harmful failure into a tool for self-discovery and personal development.
Jan 9, 2025 • 14min
How Parenting Styles Create Maladaptive Behavior in Children
Society's pressure to raise 'convenient' children can lead to emotional dysfunction in adulthood. Valuing a child's emotional expression is crucial for healthy development. Unmet needs and fear of vulnerability shape maladaptive behaviors, emphasizing the need for emotional awareness in parenting. Balancing self-exploration with parenting can foster authentic connections. This discussion reveals the importance of overcoming damaging societal norms to support both children and parents in their mental health journeys.
Jan 6, 2025 • 12min
Why Your Past Always Seems Better Than Your Present
Cherished childhood memories might deceive you. Nostalgia can create a highlight reel, glossing over the ordinary stress and struggles of the past. Our brains play tricks that make those memories seem superior to current experiences. Discover the dangers of romanticizing the past and learn practical ways to reclaim joy in the present. Dive into personal anecdotes that reveal how nostalgia skews perceptions, and find out how to enjoy life right now without being overshadowed by idealized memories.
