Integrative Psychiatry Review

In this episode I speak with James Greenblatt about orthomolecular psychiatry. A pioneer in the field of integrative medicine, James M. Greenblatt, MD, has treated patients since 1988. After receiving his medical degree and completing his psychiatry residency at George Washington University, Dr. Greenblatt completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School. Dr. Greenblatt served as the Chief Medical Officer at Walden Behavioral Care in Waltham, MA for nearly 20 years, and is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine and Dartmouth College Geisel School of Medicine.An acknowledged integrative medicine expert, educator, and author, Dr. Greenblatt has lectured internationally on the scientific evidence for nutritional interventions in psychiatry and mental illness. Through three decades of practice and research, Dr. Greenblatt is a leading contributor to helping physicians and patients understand the role of personalized medicine for mental illness.He is the author of eight books, including the best-seller, Finally Focused: The Breakthrough Natural Treatment Plan for ADHD. His updated edition of Answers to Anorexia was released in October 2021 and his newest book, Functional & Integrative Medicine for Antidepressant Withdrawal is available now.Dr. Greenblatt is the founder of Psychiatry Redefined, an educational platform dedicated to the personalized, evidence-based treatment of mental health. Psychiatry Redefined offers continuing online education, CME-approved courses, and webinars, and boasts the most comprehensive and scientifically-based professional fellowship for mental health providers, The Psychiatry Redefined Fellowship in Functional & Integrative Psychiatry.Useful links:https://www.jamesgreenblattmd.com/https://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show

In this episode I speak with Steve DeAngelo about the cannabis industry. As a lifelong activist, author, educator, investor, and entrepreneur, he has spent more than four decades on the front lines of the cannabis reform movement. His most notable business achievements include co-founding Harborside-one of the first six dispensaries licensed in the United States-now a publicly-traded company on the Canadian Securities Exchange; Steep Hill Laboratory, the first cannabis analytics company; Arcview Group, the first dedicated cannabis investment network, and Last Prisoner Project, dedicated to fighting criminal injustice and reimagining drug policySteve is the author of The Cannabis Manifesto and an originator of the wellness approach to understanding cannabis. He played a key role in the passage of Initiative 59, Washington DC's medical cannabis law; the passage of Prop 64, California's adult-use law; and successfully defended multiple legal attempts by US federal authorities to shutter the doors of Harborside.Useful links:https://stevedeangelo.com/https://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the showSupport the show

In this episode I speak with physician assistant, Rebekah Mills, PA about burnout among healthcare professionals and what can be done about it.Useful links:https://www.warrenwellnessmd.com/cme-events-and-conferenceshttps://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode I speak with family therapist, Greg Robillard, MFT about the art and science of mental health diagnosis.Useful links:https://www.treewellhealing.com/https://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode I speak with immunologist Heather Zwickey, PhD about the fascinating science of psychoneuroimmunology.We discuss:sickness behaviorsthe role and toll of stressinflammation and mental healthpractical recommendationsclinical interventionsUseful linkshttps://www.heatherzwickey.com/https://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode I speak with Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Kayla Harrop about the benefits of Chinese medicine in mental and physical health.Useful linksreturntoearth.healing@gmail.comhttps://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode I speak with the Author of Secret Drugs of Buddhism and teacher of the Kagyu lineage of Buddhism, Lama Mike Crowley.Useful linkshttp://amritadzong.com/https://bookshop.org/books/secret-drugs-of-buddhism-psychedelic-sacraments-and-the-origins-of-the-vajrayana/9780907791744https://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode I speak with naturopathic physician and herbalist Dr. Jillian Stansbury about herbal medicine and its implications in mental health.Useful linkshttps://healingartsapothecary.org/https://battlegroundhealingarts.com/https://www.chelseagreen.com/writer/jill-stansbury/https://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode I speak with naturopathic physician Ose Okojie about mental health and exercise.Useful linkshttps://www.psychiatrypodcast.com/psychiatry-psychotherapy-podcast/the-best-exercise-program-for-depression?rq=exercisehttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7990819/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7436997/https://impulse.appstate.edu/sites/impulse.appstate.edu/files/2006_06_05_Leuenberger.pdfhttps://www.okojiewellness.com/https://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

I speak with Tal Sharabi, LPC about existentialism. We cover the philosophy, psychotherapy, and personal experience of existing in the world. The discussion includes a fair amount of psychedelic and Buddhist perspectives, as well as anecdotes about death, meaning, religion, spirituality, and what matters.Useful linkshttps://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode I speak with mental health advocate Kevin Fitts about mental health crisis peer support and the benefits and pitfalls of psychedelics in culture and medicine.Useful linkshttp://omhca.org/https://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlListen on:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/integrative-psychiatry-review/id1478680845?uo=4 Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yODU5NjcucnNzSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09haGgWLcydTTrVJAVuALDStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=460683&refid=stpr TuneIn: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Medical/Integrative-Psychiatry-Review-p1245161/ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-integrative-psychiatry-rev-49463380/ and many other podcasting platforms.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode I speak with nutritionist Colleen Kuhn, RD about the science, benefits, and challenges of the ketogenic diet.Useful linkshttps://www.nutritiontranslator.com/https://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode, I speak with veteran and COO of Silo Wellness Retreats, Scott Slay. We share our military experiences and his struggle to find help with his PTSD until psychedelics changed his life.Useful links:https://siloretreats.com/https://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlListen on:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/integrative-psychiatry-review/id1478680845?uo=4 Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yODU5NjcucnNzSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09haGgWLcydTTrVJAVuALDStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=460683&refid=stpr TuneIn: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Medical/Integrative-Psychiatry-Review-p1245161/ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-integrative-psychiatry-rev-49463380/ and many other podcasting platforms.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode, I present a webinar on the Art and Science of Psilocybin Therapy. We also hear from Sam Chapman the campaign manager for IP 34 on the Oregon ballot measure to make psilocybin services available.Useful links:https://yesonip34.org/https://www.drmatthewhicks.com/https://www.synaptic.care/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: Multiverse by KetsaDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

I speak with Joey Cardella, a life coach and friend about vulnerability, why it’s hard, how we cultivate it in ourselves, how it promotes creativity and authenticity, how vulnerability fits in with psychedelics, and we both share what is present in our lives around this issue.Useful links:http://joeycardella.com/home/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: American Vernacular by RAGEDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlListen on:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/integrative-psychiatry-review/id1478680845?uo=4 Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yODU5NjcucnNzSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09haGgWLcydTTrVJAVuALDStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=460683&refid=stpr TuneIn: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Medical/Integrative-Psychiatry-Review-p1245161/ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-integrative-psychiatry-rev-49463380/ and many other podcasting platforms.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

I speak with Will Barone, PsyD, a clinical psychologist in Oakland, California with both research and clinical experience in psychedelics. We discuss the following: What is Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy?For the sake of harm reduction, what should people know about street ketamine use in recreational settings? What are the contraindications, risks, and suggestions for safe use?What is the history of ketamine’s discovery and use?What is the chemistry of ketamine?What brain regions are involved?Why is it an effective treatment for depression?What else is it good for?What is your treatment protocol? What are other models?What form of psychotherapy do you use?What are the qualitative differences between ketamine and other psychedelics?Useful links:The RiverStyx foundation: https://www.riverstyxfoundation.org/Healing Realms Center: https://www.healingrealmscenter.com/KRIYA institute: https://www.kriyainstitute.com/ Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: American Vernacular by RAGEDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlListen on:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/integrative-psychiatry-review/id1478680845?uo=4 Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yODU5NjcucnNzSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09haGgWLcydTTrVJAVuALDStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=460683&refid=stpr TuneIn: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Medical/Integrative-Psychiatry-Review-p1245161/ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-integrative-psychiatry-rev-49463380/ and many other podcasting platforms.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

I speak with Dr. Erica Zelfand, a family physician, writer, speaker, and expert in psychedelic medicine. She has completed MAPS training for MDMA-assisted psychotherapy, trained sitters for the Zendo Project, and spoken at many conferences and workshops on psychedelics. In this interview we cover: What is MDMA and why is it illegal?For the sake of harm reduction, what should people know about Ecstacy use in recreational settings? What are contraindications, risks, and suggestions for safe use?What is the history of MDMA’s discovery and use?What is the chemistry of MDMA?What brain regions are involved?Why is it an effective treatment for PTSD?What is the treatment protocol?What else is it good for?Useful links:https://ericazelfand.com/consult/https://dancesafe.org/https://zendoproject.org/https://maps.org/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: American Vernacular by RAGEDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlListen on:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/integrative-psychiatry-review/id1478680845?uo=4 Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yODU5NjcucnNzSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09haGgWLcydTTrVJAVuALDStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=460683&refid=stpr TuneIn: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Medical/Integrative-Psychiatry-Review-p1245161/ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-integrative-psychiatry-rev-49463380/ and many other podcasting platforms.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

I speak with Ken Bonnin, Jr. a leader in the Mankind Project about what the work means to him. We also cover: What is MKP and how did it come about?Why do men choose to do this work?Why is it only for men?What about gay, bi, or trans men?What are the masculine archetypes used in the work?What are the values of vulnerability and community among men?Useful links:https://mankindproject.org/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: American Vernacular by RAGEDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode, I speak with Austin Perlmutter, MD about his new book Brain Wash: Detox Your Mind for Clearer Thinking, Deeper Relationships, and Lasting Happiness.We discuss the pitfalls of modern life and how it leads to unhappiness and ways we can improve it by reducing our digital exposure, changing our diet, nature exposure, exercise, practicing mindfulness and empathy.Useful links:Brain Wash: https://brainwashbook.com/The Modern Brain: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-modern-brainDisclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: American Vernacular by RAGEDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlListen on:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/integrative-psychiatry-review/id1478680845?uo=4 Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yODU5NjcucnNzSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09haGgWLcydTTrVJAVuALDStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=460683&refid=stpr TuneIn: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Medical/Integrative-Psychiatry-Review-p1245161/ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-integrative-psychiatry-rev-49463380/ and many other podcasting platforms.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode, I discuss the science of loneliness and what to do about it.Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: American Vernacular by RAGEDonate here to support the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=84UDKKRJZHGD4&source=urlListen on:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/integrative-psychiatry-review/id1478680845?uo=4 Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8yODU5NjcucnNzSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09haGgWLcydTTrVJAVuALDStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=460683&refid=stpr TuneIn: https://tunein.com/podcasts/Medical/Integrative-Psychiatry-Review-p1245161/ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-integrative-psychiatry-rev-49463380/ and many other podcasting platforms.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode, I speak with author, business coach, and personal finance guru, Matt Kelly about financial wellbeing. We discuss:Where do we learn how to manage our moneyHow money influences our relationshipsIncome inequality, student loan debt, and other sources of financial stressThe pitfalls of adopting a poverty mentalityHow to empower a healthier relationship with moneyUseful links:https://www.amazon.com/Get-Money-Savvy-Control-Dreams-ebook/dp/B07SRD61Q1https://www.personalfinancecoaching.com/https://www.iwillteachyoutoberich.com/https://www.marketplace.org/shows/this-is-uncomfortable-reema-khrais/Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: American Vernacular by RAGEDonate here to support the podcastSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode I speak with Dr. Evelin Dacker, executive director of SexPositive Portland. We discuss:Mission of SexPositive PortlandWhy is sex important for our mental health or otherwise?What are the consequences of denying our sexual nature?How would one go about exploring their sexuality?Myth-busting:Porn leads to "deviance"Masturbation is for people who can't get laidPolyamory is for sex addictsBDSM and kink are unhealthyHow can someone who is single explore these things without a partner?What can a cis-gendered, straight, vanilla person learn from the queer/poly/kink community even if they have no interest in any of those lifestyles?Sexpositiveportland.orgmaketimeforthetalk.comdrmatthewhicks.comDisclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: American Vernacular by RAGEDonate here to support the podcastSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this interview about cohousing with Diane Margolis, PhD we discuss:Diane’s background, both professional and personal as it relates to cohousing.Her involvement with the Cohousing Research Network.Defining what is cohousing?Why would people want to house themselves this way?What are the challenges with this model?What does the research say?What research still needs to be done?Links:Cohousing: A Contemporary Approach to Housing Ourselves by Kathryn McCamot and Charles DurrettCohousing Research NetworkCohousing USdrmatthewhicks.comDisclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: American Vernacular by RAGEDonate here to support the podcastSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

In this episode, I speak with former monk and Buddhist teacher, David Sudar. We explore questions like:What is the core of Buddhist psychology?What makes it different than a typical western mindset?What makes it different from a religion?What is the role of mindfulness in Buddhist psychology?Does one require the other?Do Buddhist ideas arise from a meditation practice?Does Buddhism require meditationWhat does Buddhism offer in terms of ethics and how to live our lives?What is your opinion on the role of mindfulness in mental health?Are there any risks or downsides to mindfulnessWhat prevents people from practicing?What’s the low hanging fruit of mindfulness? What are the most attainable benefits?What is the big reward for a deep practice?What are the biggest misconceptions about meditation?Disclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: American Vernacular by RAGETo make a donation to the podcast please go to drmatthewhicks.comSupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

Saffron for ADHDBaziar S, Aqamolaei A, Khadem E, et al. Crocus sativus L. Versus Methylphenidate in Treatment of Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Randomized, Double-Blind Pilot Study. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 2019;29(3):205-212.The standard of care in treating ADHD is the use of stimulant medications, the most popular of which is methylphenidate (Ritalin).It works by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine in presynaptic neurons in the cerebral cortex and subcortical structures. NE and DA are the primary neurotransmitters responsible for learning, rewards, memory formation, and stimulation.Side effects include insomnia, nausea, loss of appetite, anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, pupil dilation and blurred vision, hyperthermia), orthostatic hypotension, and arrhythmias. Saffron (Crocus sativus) has been known as the world’s most expensive spice. About 90% of the world’s supply comes from Iran. In addition to its culinary application it is also used for its antispasmodic, antiseptic, antidepressant, anticancer, memory enhancement, anxiolytic, neuroprotective, and anticonvulsant effects. The primary mechanisms of saffron are thought to be reuptake inhibition of NE and DA, antagonism of NMDA receptors, and agonist of GABA-α.How the study was doneRandomized, double-blind, parallel-group clinical trial. Tehran University of Medical Sciences50 Males and females between the ages of 6 and 17 with ADHD completed.Patients were randomized to receive standard-dose methylphenidate (tid, at 30mg/day for kids >30kg) on a titration schedule or 30mg/day of saffron in three doses.Outcome measure was a parent and teacher rating scale measure at baseline, week 3, and week 6 of treatment.Results:There was no statistically significant difference between parent or teacher ratings of either inattentive or hyperactive behaviors between the two groups. In other words, both saffron and methylphenidate improved ADHD symptoms equally well. The saffron group reported fewer although not significantly fewer side effects.My thoughts:Stimulants lead to significant improvement in the quality of life for many people, however, they don’t work in everyone and many have undesirable side-effects.Coming down for the medication is hard and can lead to mood disturbancesPeople can become tolerant to stimulantsThey can become dependent on them in place of developing skills to manage their symptomsThis study was small, the first and only study of saffron for ADHD, and there was no placebo groupMore studies should be done to confirm the findingsSaffron is safe, give it a try, and let me know what you thinkDisclaimer: topics discussed on the podcast are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with your medical provider about the appropriateness of these interventions in your individual case.Music credit: American Vernacular by RAGESupport the show (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6MJHU6BLWMWS&source=url)

Donate HerePresented at the International Congress on Naturopathic Medicine - 2019DEFINITIONSPsychotomimetic: Outdated term used to describe substances that mimic psychosisHallucinogen: A substance that generates hallucinations (does not accurately describe psychedelic experience)Psychedelic: an experience in which the mind (soul) is fully manifestedEntheogen: a psychedelic substance specifically used for spiritual practiceMicrodosing: the practice of using sub-psychedelic doses (5-25% of a full dose) for enhancement of mood, creativity, and energyRECREATIONAL VERSUS THERAPEUTIC USEThese substances enhance sensory experiences and opens one to new ways of being in the present momentIntention makes the experience what it isWe refer to this as Set and SettingMindset: what is your present mental and emotional state? What do you want from this experience?Setting: Where are you? Do you feel safe? Supported?Harm reduction is a safer approach than prohibitionCLASSIC PSYCHEDELICSTryptaminesLSDPsilocybinDMT (ayahuasca)WHAT DO THEY TREAT?Cancer related anxiety and depressionTreatment-resistant depressionAddictionIn smoking cessation clinical trial at 12 month follow up 67% of participants were abstinent (compare to varenicline at

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