In this episode with Eric Kussin, he shared his personal story of going through severe mental health challenges and how he ultimately found healing and purpose. Eric worked in the sports industry and was a former athlete himself. He talked about experiencing a mental health crisis that led him to being diagnosed with treatment-resistant mental health issues. He discussed his journey through various treatments, including medications and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which didn't bring the desired relief.The turning point in his story was when he met a psychologist who practiced integrative psychology. This psychologist encouraged Eric to share his life story, which revealed that he had faced significant traumatic experiences and accumulated stress over time. Eric realized that there was a disconnect between the way people experience life events and how these experiences affect their mental health.He then went on to explain how this disconnect between lived experiences and mental health contributes to the binary perception of mental health – you're either sick or not, and if you're sick, you need medication to "fix" you. Eric emphasized that people should proactively work on their mental health because the impact of life events accumulates over time, affecting the brain and body's connection.Eric also discussed the prevalence of psychotropic medications in the United States and how we need to address mental health issues from a broader perspective. He talked about Same Here, a nonprofit organization he co-founded, which aims to change the conversation around mental health. Same Here encourages people to share their stories and focuses on mental health as a continuum, not a binary condition. The nonprofit seeks to normalize conversations about mental health and promote proactive measures to address the mental health needs of all individuals.Overall, the episode highlighted Eric's journey from crisis to healing and how he is now working to change the way we approach mental health, advocating for a more comprehensive, proactive, and inclusive perspective. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In this engaging episode, Helena Plater-Zyberk discusses her unique approach to mental health through peer support. The conversation starts with a warm welcome and recognition of the importance of addressing mental health. Helena highlights how, for many, the concept of mental health services can be intimidating, but peer support offers a more approachable and engaging alternative.The dialogue delves into the essence of peer support, a concept that extends beyond the traditional framework. While peer support often conjures images of groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or grief support, Helena and her organization, Supportive, have redefined it. They emphasize that anyone with lived experiences can share their insights and support others in various aspects of life, such as parenting, caregiving, or dealing with everyday challenges at work.The episode touches upon the transformation of society, emphasizing the loss of the human connections and neighborly bonds. Helena underscores the significance of reestablishing these connections through peer support, fostering a sense of community and shared vulnerability.The host points out the trust and anonymity embedded in Supportive's approach, which ensures that people can discuss their struggles without fear of their information being misused. The conversation touches on the simplicity of Supportive's approach, using natural language to help people find the peer support they need without navigating complex forms and checkboxes.Helena explains that Supportive doesn't restrict support to fixed meeting times; it's available whenever someone needs it, even in the middle of the night. This flexibility accommodates the realities of modern life where unexpected challenges can arise at any time.The podcast host draws parallels between Supportive and their experiences building a dental insurance website. Helena acknowledges the importance of trust in their service, as they aim to build a trusted and anonymous platform for people seeking help with various emotional and social struggles.Helena highlights how Supportive's "What's your struggle?" approach is designed to help individuals express their challenges in natural language without formal diagnosis. The platform then connects them with the right resources and people, creating a unique space for collaborative problem-solving and guidance.Furthermore, Helena shares how Supportive goes beyond conversations by offering resources such as articles, podcasts, and exercises that match the topics discussed in chats. The organization's patent-pending technology allows for a dynamic exchange of information and resources, enriching the overall peer support experience.In summary, Helena Plater-Zyberk's episode explores how Supportive's approach to peer support can bridge gaps in mental health services and create a more empathetic and supportive society. This innovative platform places an emphasis on trust, anonymity, and personalized resources, making it accessible to those seeking help in various aspects of their lives. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In this intriguing episode, Owen Muir, a medical doctor and psychiatrist, shares his remarkable journey into the world of medicine and psychiatry. Owen's story is an unconventional one, filled with twists and turns that ultimately led him to a career in healing minds.Owen's tale begins with a strong determination not to become a medical doctor, despite societal expectations. He pursued his passion for music and recording, even taking advanced neuroscience courses, deliberately avoiding the prerequisites for medical school. However, his life took an unexpected turn when he discovered he had bipolar disorder, which ultimately altered his path and his perspective on mental health.His academic journey was far from traditional, with a focus on music and audio engineering. Owen's passion for audio engineering and recording significantly shaped his approach to brain stimulation, which later became a central part of his psychiatric practice. He learned to see the parallels between audio engineering and brain modulation, finding common ground in the manipulation of frequencies, patterns, and magnetic fields.Owen describes the transformative power of brain stimulation, particularly transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). He explains how TMS works by re-tuning the brain's neural circuits, aligning them in a way that alleviates symptoms of mental health conditions such as depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). He highlights the astounding remission rates of 79% in just five days, achieved through this innovative treatment.The conversation delves into the intricacies of brain function, tuning, and synchrony. Owen uses compelling metaphors, like the concept of tuning musical instruments, to make these complex ideas more accessible. He also touches upon the power of meditation in syncing the left and right brain hemispheres, highlighting the potential of the brain as its own stimulator.Today, Owen practices psychiatry with a unique approach, utilizing his expertise in brain stimulation. He has made groundbreaking progress in treating conditions like PTSD, offering hope to those who have struggled for years. Owen's method involves leveraging EEG caps to retrain the brain and down-regulate the amygdala, the brain's fear center, demonstrating the potential for significant changes in the mental health landscape.However, as Owen points out, the real challenge lies in making these effective treatments more accessible. He believes that the true issue in mental health care isn't the absence of effective treatments but rather the failure to pay for them. Owen's work centers on finding a solution to this problem by advocating for independent validation of outcomes and cost-effectiveness.Owen's partnership with the Validation Institute has led to a groundbreaking approach to getting these treatments paid for. They offer independent validation, putting their money where their mouth is. If the math behind the validation can be disproven, the Validation Institute pays out. This unique approach has the potential to revolutionize mental health care by ensuring that proven treatments are accessible to all.As the conversation unfolds, Owen brings up critical issues related to the current healthcare system and the need for a paradigm shift. He believes that the mental health crisis is, at its core, a crisis of not acknowledging effective treatments. By establishing a framework where these treatments can be validated, he's working to bridge the gap between innovative therapies and the individuals who desperately need them.This episode is a captivating exploration of unconventional paths to psychiatry, the power of neurotechnology, and the potential for mental health treatments to transform lives. Owen Muir's story serves as an inspiring reminder that even the most unexpected turns in life can lead to groundbreaking solutions in the field of medicine. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

Alice Meyer shared her powerful journey of loss and resilience, revealing the passion that emerged from her 20-year-old son's tragic suicide. In the aftermath of her son's passing, Alice became an advocate for mental health, working to ensure others don't experience the same struggles. Her commitment to helping teens navigate the complex world of mental health has led her to become certified as a community mental health worker and work closely with organizations such as Same Here Global. Alice aims to empower teens with the knowledge and confidence to discuss mental health issues openly and seek support. She shared how cultural pressures, competitiveness, and the fear of showing weakness contribute to a lack of open conversations about mental health. Through the Teen Alliance program, Alice plans to provide a safe space where teens can openly share, learn, and find the support they need. She emphasized the importance of discussing mental health openly and having tools to deal with the struggles. Alice's journey is driven by the desire to help others and prevent them from feeling alone in their mental health struggles. https://instagram.com/teen_allies_samehere_?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In this episode, Kevin Cannella, founder of the nonprofit organization "Thank You Life," discusses the organization's mission and approach to making psychedelic therapy more accessible. He highlights the importance of expanding access to psychedelic therapy, which they believe can help people heal from trauma and improve their mental health.Kevin talks about the various movements within the field of psychedelic therapy, including clinical models, decriminalization efforts, and community-based ceremonies, recognizing that different approaches are suitable for different people. "Thank You Life" primarily focuses on the clinical model and is building a network of clinics that offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Their goal is to extend their services to include MDMA and psilocybin when these substances become federally legal.He mentions that the organization is working on project-based rollouts, where clinics and community organizations can submit proposals for specific projects, and "Thank You Life" helps fund and support them. One innovative approach they are exploring is group ketamine experiences, which can be more cost-effective and foster a sense of community.Kevin discusses the challenges associated with the traditional mental health care system, emphasizing the need for more effective and trauma-focused treatments. He suggests that pharmaceuticals and conventional therapy methods may not be sufficient for deep healing and acknowledges that psychedelic therapy has the potential to address the root causes of mental health issues.Towards the end of the conversation, Kevin expresses that their organization is actively seeking financial support to fund their projects and mentions specific initiatives, such as working with veterans and BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. He encourages anyone interested in supporting "Thank You Life" to reach out through their website or contact him directly. He believes that the support they receive will help fulfill their mission of making healing through psychedelics more accessible to those in need. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In this episode, Sam Mandel discusses the role of CEO of Ketamine Clinics, Los Angeles, and what the clinic does. He co-founded and serves as the CEO of the clinic, which was one of the first ketamine clinics in the United States, having opened in 2014. The clinic specializes in providing intravenous (IV) infusions of ketamine for mental health. Ketamine, an FDA-approved anesthetic, has been used in human medicine since the 1970s and is also employed in veterinary medicine. Despite its varied uses, some people associate ketamine with recreational drug use and misinformation, leading to stigma and misconceptions.Sam emphasizes the importance of disseminating accurate information about ketamine's medical applications. He highlights that ketamine has gained recognition as a highly effective treatment for mood disorders, including depression, PTSD, anxiety, and suicidality, based on 170 clinical trials conducted at prestigious institutions like Yale, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins. Ketamine also uniquely offers an experiential component during treatment, promoting self-discovery and healing for patients.The discussion also touches on the need for a shift in how society approaches mental health and how physical health and mental health are interconnected. It underscores the significance of good nutrition, regular exercise, and a supportive environment for overall well-being. The conversation explores the challenges of addressing the financial aspects of mental health treatments, insurance coverage, and the pharmaceutical industry's influence in shaping healthcare options. The use of off-label ketamine treatments highlights the need for evolving perspectives and policies in the medical field.Sam delves into the intricacies of ketamine therapy and the nuances of IV infusions. The episode discusses the differences between IV ketamine infusions and Spravato (S-ketamine) nasal spray, highlighting the effectiveness and safety of IV infusions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of monitoring patients during ketamine therapy and adjusting the dosage based on individual needs and reactions. Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles is highlighted as a center with a high success rate and a team of clinicians dedicated to patient safety and well-being. The discussion underscores the importance of an experienced team in providing high-quality ketamine therapy.Sam also discusses how interested individuals can reach out to them through their website and contact number, emphasizing free and confidential inquiries and consultations. They mention that ketamine therapy is primarily for individuals with diagnosed mental health conditions like depression, PTSD, and anxiety. The discussion also highlights the need for more accessible treatment options for veterans and first responders and mentions a 10 percent discount and interest-free financing options. Furthermore, Sam talks about efforts to work with insurance plans to increase access and mentions their collaboration with Kaiser Southern California for ketamine infusions.  The conversation also hints at the potential cost savings for healthcare systems and insurers in the long run due to the positive impact of ketamine therapy on patient well-being. However, the ultimate goal is not just financial, but to help save lives and improve overall well-being. With ongoing efforts and growing awareness, it's clear that ketamine therapy is emerging as a promising option for those in need.  For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In this episode, Shannon Petrovich, a therapist with 35 years of experience, discusses her journey in the field of therapy, including her transition to sharing her knowledge through a YouTube channel. She reflects on the popularity of her channel, particularly among those seeking information about toxic relationships and narcissistic behavior.Shannon delves into the challenges of modern society, emphasizing the importance of character qualities in individuals and how societal values have shifted. She focuses on helping people understand themselves better and navigate healthier relationships. Her work spotlights the dynamic between empathic individuals and narcissists, acknowledging the risks these empathic individuals face in such relationships.The conversation shifts to the power of journaling as a healing tool, with Shannon highlighting that it allows individuals to dialogue with themselves and understand their own thoughts and emotions. She discusses the role of journaling in helping individuals rationalize and heal from challenging experiences.Additionally, Shannon shares insights about her YouTube channel, which has reached a global audience seeking mental health information. She talks about the consistency and content strategy she initially employed and the impact of her work. She also mentions the challenges of maintaining a steady schedule due to the demands of her other professional responsibilities.Shannon concludes by discussing her self-help book, "Out of the Fog into the Clear: Journaling to Help You Heal from Toxic Relationships," which she wrote to provide tools and guidance for those who may not have access to traditional therapy. The book offers journal prompts to guide individuals through their healing journey, helping them move from confusion to clarity.Overall, Shannon's work emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and offers valuable resources for those navigating toxic relationships and seeking personal growth. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In this episode with Patrick Brennan, he discusses his personal journey, particularly focusing on his experiences with addiction and recovery. Patrick acknowledges the value of being vulnerable and how it plays a significant role in addressing mental health issues. He shares that he's a graphic designer by day, and he's involved in creating art and music. Patrick is also a father and a recovering addict, highlighting the complexity of his identity.During the conversation, they explore the transformative power of creativity and how it connects with vulnerability and emotional expression. Patrick delves into his interest in spiritual and mystical matters and how it contributes to his understanding of mental health and personal growth.The conversation touches upon the 12-step program, specifically focusing on its spiritual aspects. Patrick reflects on how the program led to his spiritual awakening and an understanding that it's not merely about substance abuse but addressing deeper spiritual deficits in one's life. They discuss how the 12-step program can be misunderstood or misinterpreted, with a success rate of only around 7-14%, emphasizing the need to broaden the perception of addiction and spirituality.They also touch on how the 12-step program isn't solely religious, and people with various belief systems can find a deeper sense of spirituality through it. Patrick highlights the importance of self-honesty and self-assessment, looking at the ego's development and how it relates to an individual's journey through life.Patrick shares his perspective on the 12-step program and how it offers a continuous path for personal growth and understanding rather than a one-time solution. He presents the concept of the "three-step shuffle," which many individuals experience when working through the program, emphasizing that true growth occurs when you go through all the steps without rushing. Patrick also discusses the idea of a higher self or an external force that aids in the process of self-improvement, irrespective of one's personal beliefs.The episode dives into the subject of spirituality, how it evolves, and the importance of approaching it with an open mind. It stresses the significance of honesty, self-assessment, and continuous growth in the context of addiction recovery and self-improvement. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

In this episode, host Ken interviews his guest, Kevin Palmieri, about his journey and how he ended up in his current position. The episode delves into the following key points:Kevin's Early Life: Kevin talks about being raised by his mother and grandmother without knowing his father until he was 27. He emphasizes how this upbringing shaped him.Chasing External Success: Kevin shares how, at one point, he had a high-paying job, an attractive girlfriend, a sports car, and an impressive physique. He won a bodybuilding competition and expected these external achievements to fill the void inside him. However, it didn't work out as he'd hoped.The Quest for Internal Fulfillment: Kevin describes the turning point when he realized that external success didn't lead to inner happiness. He embarked on a journey to find internal fulfillment and purpose.Starting the Hyperconscious Podcast: In 2016, Kevin took the first step in this journey by creating the "Hyperconscious Podcast." It started without a clear business plan but was a space for meaningful conversations with various individuals.Transition to Full-Time Podcasting: As Kevin began experiencing the transformation in his mindset and purpose, he found it challenging to continue his high-paying job. With the support of his business partner and mentor, Alan, he decided to leave his job and focus on podcasting and personal development full-time.Changing Environments: Kevin discusses how changing his external environment was crucial to his personal growth. He reflects on the importance of evolving both internally and externally.The Shift to Fulfillment: Kevin explains how fulfillment is the recognition of being on one's life purpose and achieving personal growth while making a meaningful contribution to others. It's about finding purpose in the growth and contribution that align with your life's mission.Challenges and Fulfillment: The episode touches on the role of challenges and difficult experiences in driving fulfillment. Overcoming obstacles can lead to a profound sense of accomplishment.Everyday Fulfillment: Ken and Kevin explore the notion of everyday fulfillment by focusing on reframing challenges and finding positivity in the midst of adversity.Building a Coaching Business: The conversation leads to Kevin and Alan's transition into coaching people in self-improvement. This transition started with a small number of clients but expanded as they helped more people on their self-improvement journeys.Daily Support: To better support their audience, Kevin and Alan decided to create daily podcast episodes and run a Facebook group, emphasizing their commitment to helping people every day.This episode is a deep dive into Kevin's life, the journey of self-discovery, and how he and Alan evolved their business to focus on personal development, self-improvement, and coaching. It's a story of transformation, fulfillment, and taking messy but meaningful action towards a purpose-driven life.Kevin and his team are dedicated to continuous improvement and have some exciting plans for the future. They're currently developing a habit-tracking app that aims to revolutionize self-improvement. The app is currently in beta testing and will eventually incorporate AI to enhance its capabilities.Their overarching goal is to have the most successful self-improvement podcast in the world. To achieve this, they're committed to producing an episode every day until they reach that level of success. They're also dedicated to making incremental improvements in everything they do, striving for a 1% improvement each day.Kevin and his team are motivated by their passion for what they do, and they're driven by a clear sense of purpose. Their journey is one of continuous growth and unwavering commitment to helping others on their self-improvement journeys. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.

Gina's story is one of profound transformation and resilience. Her journey takes her from a place of deep despair to creating a purpose-driven company that focuses on holistic mental wellness. She emphasizes the importance of self-love, which involves not only loving but also liking oneself. Self-love is the foundation for healthy relationships and avoiding toxic ones.She also highlights the significance of finding one's purpose and passion. It's not always about making drastic life changes, but rather listening to your heart and choosing actions that genuinely excite you. By doing so, you can create a life filled with meaning and fulfillment.Gina's company is dedicated to providing a platform for wellness practitioners to connect with those seeking mental health support, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for mental wellness. This platform aims to address the need for a holistic approach to mental health, with a focus on the well-being of both practitioners and clients.In summary, Gina's journey is one of self-discovery, healing, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the field of mental health. Her emphasis on self-love and following one's passion serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of these aspects in creating a meaningful and fulfilling life. For more about Mental Health Today, visit our:Website:      https://www.mhtpodcast.comYoutube: https://youtube.com/live/bHTLsrp5D2sLinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/mental-health-today-podcast/?viewAsMember=trueMental Health Today With is a branch of The Jar, funded by The Jar Foundation.Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.