In this episode, the Bonnies chat with Dr. Jonathan Abramowitz, an expert in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorders. They discuss his book, "Living Well with OCD," and clarify common misconceptions about intrusive thoughts, emphasizing their normalcy.Dr. Abramowitz shares insights on effective exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, family dynamics in OCD, and the importance of accessible resources for managing symptoms.Their conversation aims to empower listeners to live fulfilling lives alongside OCD, highlighting that with the right understanding, it doesn’t have to dictate their existence.HIGHLIGHTS:7:14 Early Career and OCD Research7:54 Treatment Challenges in OCD13:39 Inhibitory Learning Explained24:33 The Importance of Self-Compassion28:30 Writing "Living Well with OCD"31:39 Managing Family Dynamics with OCD35:19 The Disclosure Dilemma44:25 Understanding Intrusive ThoughtsCONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) WebsiteBonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) WebsiteThe content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.
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47:57
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47:57
OCD Prevention
These two hosts reflect on their recent vacation experiences and the insightful research from BZW's graduate studies as a psychologist specializing in anxiety. Both share insights from their separate trips, illustrating the restorative power of nature and discussing the cultural dynamics surrounding current events.BZW delves into her graduate research on anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), focusing on preventive measures through educational interventions to mitigate anxiety disorders. They explore thought-action fusion within OCD and present findings on how education can effectively reduce anxiety levels linked to intrusive thoughts.Their conversation underscores the necessity of early education on anxiety management, aiming to empower children and adolescents. This episode combines personal narratives with scientific inquiry, advocating for a proactive approach to mental health education and prevention strategies.HIGHLIGHTS:5:34 Insights from Graduate School Research10:19 Understanding Thought-Action Fusion18:55 The Impact of Intrusive Thoughts26:14 Findings on OCD PreventionCONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) WebsiteBonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) WebsiteThe content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.
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30:57
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30:57
Technology: Social Power Children
In this episode, BZE and BZW take a different look at social media and examine the influence of smartphones and social media on mental health, particularly among children and adolescents.They discuss alarming phone usage statistics and the pressures of cyberbullying and online anonymity. Emphasizing parental guidance, they share strategies for fostering open communication and teaching children to navigate social power dynamics.Through practical techniques and a touching client story from BZE, they illustrate the importance of asserting oneself in social situations and encourages listeners to support their children’s emotional growth in the digital age.HIGHLIGHTS:2:12 The Impact of Social Media5:40 Navigating Parenting and Communication8:48 Balancing Autonomy and Guidance11:00 Understanding Social Power Dynamics13:52 Teaching Assertiveness to Kids17:57 The Importance of Modeling Behavior22:39 Learning from Social Power Experiences28:31 Skills for a Lifetimementioned in this episode:How To Manage Your Social Power in Middle School bookCONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) WebsiteBonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) WebsiteThe content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.
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29:14
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29:14
Technology, Social Media & Guidance for Parents
In this episode of Anxiety Matters, BZE and BZW explore how modern technology, especially smartphones and social media, affects children and parents in the context of anxiety. They discuss the recent rise of AI tools like ChatGPT in therapy and reassure listeners about the irreplaceable human connection in therapeutic settings.The conversation addresses parental concerns about technology, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue regarding its risks and benefits. They share practical strategies for parents, such as setting boundaries on device usage, modeling healthy habits, and fostering genuine family interactions.The episode also highlights the skills children may miss when overly engaged with screens, advocating for a balanced approach to technology that promotes social development and mental well-being.HIGHLIGHTS:3:07 Technology and Parenting: A Balancing Act7:40 The Impact of Smartphones on Children11:08 Navigating School and Phone Use12:46 School Safety and Parental Anxiety17:05 Evaluating Risks: Phones vs. Reality21:41 Social Skills in the Digital Age26:09 Mindfulness in Phone Use28:13 Setting Boundaries for Kids' Phone Use32:16 Engaging with Technology ResponsiblyCONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) WebsiteBonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) WebsiteThe content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.
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33:34
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33:34
Parenting & Anxiety
BZE and BZW kick off their discussion by celebrating their diverse audience across the globe! With listeners tuning in from countries like Mexico, Canada, Egypt, and Australia, they emphasize the importance of making mental health resources more accessible, particularly in areas where professional help is scarce. As they transition into their main topic, they unpack the idea that while technology can be a useful tool for spreading awareness, it can also lead to anxiety-inducing comparisons and unrealistic expectations, especially for new parents.They discuss modern parenting challenges amid information overload and social media's unrealistic pressures and emphasize the importance of 'good enough parenting' and share personal insights on fostering deeper connections through imperfections. Both critically examine social media's impact on parenting, including 'sharenting' and perfectionism's dangersHIGHLIGHTS:2:42 Information Overload in Parenting8:38 The Pressure of Social Media11:39 The Dangers of Oversharing15:20 The Impact of Perfectionism20:28 Embracing Failure as a Learning Tool23:44 Insights on Perfectionismmentioned in this episode:A Perfectionist's Guide to Not Being Perfect by Dr. Bonnie ZuckerCONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) WebsiteBonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) WebsiteThe content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.
What are the odds of two psychologists, both named Bonnie Zucker, and both specializing in anxiety and cognitive-behavioral therapy, finding each other across the country? When they met, their connection was instant and electric.
Join them here as they explore anxiety from every angle - unpacking disorders, examining societal stressors, and hosting conversations with dynamic guests. They’ll share research-backed strategies to help you and your loved ones manage anxiety, and bring warmth, wisdom, and humor to the conversation.
Whether you're curious about the topic or seeking specific tools, the two Dr. Bonnie Zuckers offer expert advice, inspiration, and plenty of engaging moments. Don’t miss out on this compelling and insightful journey.
*The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.*
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