The Mental Load of the Holidays & How to Lighten It | Ep. 57

In this episode, Jackie and Justin explore the complexities of the holiday season, the mental load associated with holiday preparations, and the pressures of being the 'keeper of the magic' for family traditions. They delve into the emotional challenges of navigating grief and change during the holidays, emphasizing the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and managing social commitments. The conversation highlights the need for reflection on personal needs and routines, encouraging listeners to prioritize their well-being amidst the holiday hustle.

In this conversation, Justin and Jackie delve into the complexities of anxiety, discussing its normalcy as a human experience and the various factors that contribute to it. They explore the importance of individualized treatment approaches, emphasizing that therapy is not one-size-fits-all. The discussion covers the role of movement, sleep, nutrition, mindfulness, and social connections in managing anxiety. Practical tools for immediate relief are shared, along with the significance of experimentation in finding what works best for each individual.

Justin and Jackie explore the various communication mistakes that people make in relationships, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, active listening, and understanding each other's perspectives. They discuss the impact of past experiences on current communication styles, the necessity of setting boundaries, and the role of gender in communication dynamics. The conversation highlights the significance of digestibility in communication and the need for in-person interactions to foster deeper connections.

Justin and Jackie explore the pervasive issue of digital burnout and the impact of social media on mental health. They discuss the role of dopamine in our engagement with technology, the average screen time of Americans, and the difference between active and passive screen use. The conversation delves into the concept of doomscrolling as a coping mechanism, the cost of constant connectivity, and the importance of finding alternatives to screen time. They emphasize the need for mindfulness and being present, encouraging listeners to explore new activities and break free from habitual screen use.

In this episode, Justin and Jackie engage in an authentic conversation about fears and phobias, exploring personal experiences, the differences between fears and phobias, their origins, and effective treatment approaches. They discuss the impact of avoidance on phobias and share coping strategies, including exposure therapy and relaxation techniques. The episode also features listener questions that delve into specific fears and the nuances of managing them.

In this conversation, Justin and Jackie explore the complexities of ADHD, as Jackie shares her personal experiences with ADHD and insights into treatment options, emotional regulation, and practical strategies for managing daily life . They discuss the importance of medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, while also addressing the emotional challenges faced by individuals with ADHD. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding and supporting those with ADHD in relationships and offers unconventional hacks for coping with the condition.

In this episode of Drop In, Justin and Dr. Jackie engage in an open conversation about seasonal depression, exploring its symptoms, geographical influences, and the impact of holidays on mental health. They discuss personal experiences with seasonal affective disorder, the importance of light exposure, and the stress that holidays can bring. The conversation also touches on planning for winter activities and the effects of climate change on seasonal mood variations. Listener questions provide further insights into the complexities of seasonal depression and its varying impacts across different climates.

In this conversation, Dr. Jess Rabon discusses the current state of youth mental health, emphasizing the improvements in stigma but acknowledging the ongoing challenges. She shares insights from her work in both outpatient and inpatient settings, highlighting the importance of establishing rapport quickly with young clients. The discussion also covers the impact of social media on mental health, the pressures of academic performance, and the evolving perceptions of education and career aspirations among today's youth.Follow Dr. Jess: @jessicaleighphdListen to her Podcast: Psych Talk

In this episode, Justin and Jackie delve into the often-taboo topic of suicidality, discussing its prevalence, the stigma surrounding it, and the importance of open conversations. They share personal experiences and emphasize the need for empathy, connection, and understanding in addressing mental health issues. The conversation also covers practical strategies for managing suicidal thoughts, including the use of safety plans and coping mechanisms, while highlighting the importance of dignity and respect in mental health care.

In this episode, Jackie and Justin explore the transformative power of guided imagery and visualization in mental health. They discuss the differences between guided imagery and visualization, the neuroscience behind these practices, and share personal experiences that highlight their effectiveness. The conversation also delves into practical applications in therapy, listener questions, and a guided imagery exercise to help listeners experience the benefits firsthand.