The Carlat Psychiatry Podcast

Discover the essential steps before starting psychiatric medication, focusing on patients' hopes and fears. Learn how to provide realistic hope and set expectations effectively. The importance of trust and communication in medication management is emphasized, alongside discussing risks and choices. Dive into innovative treatments like light therapy for bipolar depression, highlighting safety and stabilization effects. An enlightening conversation that prepares both patients and providers for the journey ahead!

We interview psychoanalyst William Meyer on a therapeutic approach to postpartum depression.CME: Take the CME Post-Test for this EpisodePublished On: 07/28/2025Duration: 14 minutes, 18 secondsChris Aiken, MD and Kellie Newsome, PMHNP have disclosed no relevant financial or other interests in any commercial companies pertaining to this educational activity.

Postpartum depression can morph into bipolar disorder, raising diagnostic challenges with accuracy as low as 15%. New treatments like zarenolone show promise for quick relief, but navigating this transition requires careful evaluation. The discussion also highlights various therapeutic strategies—both medication and non-pharmacological—that are vital to supporting mothers. Family involvement and psychotherapy are emphasized as key elements in the recovery process, showcasing the importance of a comprehensive approach to maternal mental health.

The discussion centers on how families, particularly children, emotionally navigate disasters and the loss of caregivers. Experts highlight the crucial role of psychiatric support for both children and parents facing these challenges. They delve into the complexities of childhood grief, stressing the importance of communication for effective emotional processing. Additionally, the podcast addresses caregiver trauma and societal stressors while offering strategies for healthy coping and community engagement, fostering resilience in the wake of loss.

Brexanolone has stepped aside, leading to the rise of zuranolone in treating postpartum depression. This transition raises intriguing questions about potency and safety, especially for breastfeeding mothers. The podcast dives deep into the classifications of postpartum depression and reveals zuranolone's unique properties as a neurosteroid. Don't miss insights on its potential effects on bipolar disorder and a comparison to current treatment options, setting the stage for a broader discussion on mental health.

Dive into the fascinating world of Hubris Syndrome, where too much power can amplify narcissistic traits. Discover how leaders in politics and the arts often face challenges related to empathy and humility. Explore the environmental influences that shape our personalities and behaviors. Engaging quizzes prompt you to reflect on symptoms in yourself or others. Learn strategies to foster genuine connections and promote self-awareness amidst the allure of power.

Explore the intriguing world of narcissism in therapy, discussing strategies like mirroring and confrontation. Learn about the contrasting methods of Otto Kernberg and Heinz Kohut, focusing on empathetic engagement. Delve into the risks of AI technology mirroring beliefs, potentially escalating mental health issues. The conversation highlights alarming outcomes from AI therapy, raising awareness about its dangers while contrasting safer options. Get ready for a thought-provoking discussion on how these concepts interconnect in today's society.

An intriguing discussion uncovers the 'placebo flip' phenomenon, where patients find unexpected relief after stopping medications. The dialogue dives into the complexities of tapering off drugs like lithium, highlighting the risk of delayed relapses. Psychological factors influencing patient experiences during medication discontinuation are also examined. Additionally, the conversation sheds light on the underdiagnosis of tardive dyskinesia in chronic depression patients and introduces an AI tool, TD Screen, poised to revolutionize detection methods.

The complexity of the placebo effect is explored, shedding light on its varying impact across psychiatric disorders. Historical examples illustrate how patient responses can often skew perceptions of treatment efficacy. The discussion also touches on the importance of tapering medications during crises and alarming trends in recreational drug use, particularly ketamine and psilocybin. The rising popularity of these psychedelics among those facing mental health challenges raises important concerns, especially with recent data from poison control centers.

Discover how AI is revolutionizing medical diagnostics, boasting a 92% accuracy that outshines human experts. Delve into the advantages of AI in psychiatric assessments, addressing biases inherent in human judgment. Explore how AI can enhance decision-making in psychiatry and the transformative potential it holds. Learn about the historical evolution of medical knowledge and the role of AI in evolving research practices, including the FDA's initiatives to integrate AI into scientific reviews.