Fascism and Mental Health: In this episode of 'What if Nothing's Wrong with You?' hosts Paula D. Atkinson and Lisa K Kays explore the relationship between fascism and mental illness. They delve deep into how fascism is a form of collective delusion, the inherent issues within imperialistic ideologies, and how therapy often supports these systems. The dialogue extends to encompass how individual mental health struggles are valid responses to the societal structure we live in. They also highlight the dangers of infinite loyalty to illusions and the importance of recognizing the interconnection of all humans. They also speak about taking action via apps like Five Calls and Ice Block to stay engaged in creating positive change. 00:00 Introduction and Focus 00:48 Middle Age Purchases and Power Washer Stories 02:51 Adopting Dogs and Their Impact 06:07 Indigo Girls Concert Experience 09:32 Jeff Bezos' Wedding and Wealth 13:01 Unreal: Behind the Scenes of Reality TV 20:07 Therapy Horror Stories and Boundaries 25:22 Introduction to Fascism Discussion 25:33 Introduction to the Topic 26:12 Defining Mental Illness and Fascism 27:15 Fascism as a Mental Disorder 29:11 The Delusion of Loyalty to Illusions 32:21 The Role of Anxiety and Discomfort 37:41 The Influence of Media and Pop Culture 41:32 Therapists and Ethical Dilemmas 47:17 Final Thoughts and Reflections
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Protect Your Attention (Ep. 27)
Hosts Paula D Atkinson and Lisa K Kays do a deep dive into the modern obsession with attention. In this episode, we explore the mental health implications of constant screen engagement and discuss the reality of monogamy in today's world. Topics include the impact of AI on human cognition, changes in the perception of relationships, and the importance of awe in everyday life.
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Therapist Horror Stories (Ep. 26)
Therapist Horror Stories: When Counseling Goes WrongJoin hosts Paula Atkinson and Lisa K as they dive into an engaging and hilarious episode of 'What, If Nothing Is Wrong With You?' where audience members share their most shocking and hysterical therapist horror stories. From therapists falling asleep mid-session to wildly inappropriate disclosures, this episode sheds light on the importance of choosing the right therapist and recognizing when therapy may be doing more harm than good. Tune in for a blend of humor, insight, and audience participation in this captivating episode!00:00 Introduction and Audience Participation01:16 Chit Chat: Adult Swim Team Adventures05:19 TV Show Recommendations: The Righteous Gemstones08:45 Therapy Update and Reflections12:49 Therapist Horror Stories: Inappropriate Advice24:52 Therapist Horror Stories: Mishandling Coming Out28:52 Therapist Horror Stories: The Power Dynamics29:54 The Perils of Self-Disclosure30:31 Therapist Over-Sharing: When It Gets Personal36:33 Couples Therapy Gone Wrong44:02 Therapists Falling Asleep: A New Low49:14 Unhelpful Advice: Have You Tried...?52:39 Conclusion: Sharing Your Stories
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Friends & Ketamine (Ep. 25)
Friendship and Ketamine: Deconstructing Cultural MythsIn this episode of 'What If Nothing's Wrong With You,' Paula and Lisa dive into the overlooked importance of friendships and the therapeutic potential of ketamine. They begin by discussing their reactions to the Netflix remake of 'The Four Seasons,' and how it reflects outdated notions of relationships. The hosts then explore the cultural devaluation of friendships, particularly stressing how systemic issues like capitalism, white supremacy, and patriarchy undermine community bonds. They share personal stories, insights from research, and highlight the importance of being deliberate and effortful in maintaining friendships. The episode wraps up with powerful reflections on prioritizing platonic relationships for better mental health and overall well-being.00:00 Introduction and Today's Topics00:36 TV Show Review: The Four Seasons11:22 Young Sheldon and Intergenerational Themes14:18 Book Recommendation: Educated by Tara Westover16:14 The Emerald Podcast and Media Consumption20:06 Ketamine as a Treatment for Mental Health25:53 The Importance of Friendships28:48 The Devaluation of Friendships in Modern Society30:34 Redefining Romance and Friendship33:57 The Origin Story of a Lifelong Friendship39:56 The Myth of the Core Friend Group50:37 The Importance of Friendships for Parents and Children53:58 Friendship as a Sacred Form of Love55:36 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
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Boomers (Ep. 24)
In this episode of 'What If Nothing Is Wrong With You?', Paula D. Atkinson and Lisa K. Kays, dive deep into the complexities of the Boomer generation. They explore long-standing requests and discuss the historical, social, and psychological factors that have shaped Boomers into who they are today. Topics include the consequences of post-war trauma, lack of curiosity, over-identification with the country, and the struggles of growing up under Boomer parents. They also address the sensitive issue of going 'no contact' with difficult family members, providing insights into handling these challenging relationships.
Hi! We're Paula D. Atkinson and Lisa Kays, hosts of the What If Nothing's Wrong With You? podcast, and we're so grateful you found us. We are two psychotherapists who have been in the field for a long time, and we started this podcast to invite you into our ongoing conversations that explore the mental health field, psychotherapy, freedom and sanity. We investigate the history of psychotherapy, the way it is practiced, the roots of treating "mental illness", who among us is usually diagnosable, and the ways in which perhaps psychotherapy creates more harm than healing.
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