The Dysregulated Podcast

Send Me a Message! Awake up at 4 AM and recording from my car, I'm sharing some thoughts during a tough winter period where both physical illness and mental health challenges have been colliding. Winter has always been difficult for me, and getting sick complicates many of my energy-dependent coping strategies for managing my mental ill health. Burnout is a tough foe to battle, along with the various disorders that I'm up against. But the fight for peace of mind rages on! —Follow my journey through the chaos of mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way.Lived experience is at the heart of this podcast — every episode told through my own lens, with raw honesty and zero filter.This is a genuine and vulnerable account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Follow my journey through the chaos of mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way.Lived experience is at the heart of this podcast — every episode told through my own lens, with raw honesty and zero filter.This is a genuine and vulnerable account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Opposite action is a powerful DBT skill that helps us override our automatic emotional responses by choosing behaviours that counter what we're feeling. This skill works by strengthening neural connections between our prefrontal cortex and amygdala, physically changing our brain to improve emotional regulation.• Identifying what emotion you're experiencing (anxiety, anger, sadness)• Understanding what your emotion is urging you to do (avoid, lash out, isolate)• Consciously choosing the opposite behaviour• Taking action despite emotional discomfort• Reflecting on the outcome and noticing positive effects• Using opposite action to manage impulsivity and emotional reactivity--Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Elliot explores the challenges of being stuck in a "mental health holding pattern", while waiting for professional guidance on medication changes.• Recounting a recent visit to Mater Hospital seeking help to reset medication and establish a new baseline• Attempting to reduce Seroquel dosage independently, resulting in disrupted sleep patterns during a week of early starts• Using State of Origin football as a crucial psychological anchor during a difficult period• Experiencing increasing anxiety about the future due to feeling a lack of control over treatment direction• Feeling the early signs of depression returning as the waiting period continues• Preview of an upcoming detailed episode reviewing hospital discharge papers and future treatment implicationsFor anyone experiencing similar struggles with mental health treatment limbo, remember that finding small anchors to look forward to can help break up difficult weeks while waiting for professional support.--Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! I'm drenched, exhausted, and dragging myself through the rain—because I'm about to blow. This is a real-time recording, on my phone, just moments before I walked through the doors of the Mater hospital. Not in crisis, but not far off. I'm tired. Tired of the medication merry-go-round, the constant inner turmoil, the anxiety and depression. Im also tired of my inner critic telling me I'm not “bad enough” to deserve any help. But, I didn't show up for fun. I didn't walk from home to the hospital at 2am in the relentless rain to go home empty handed—I showed up because I'm worn out, and I need answers. Now. —Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! When silence falls on The Dysregulated Podcast, it usually means something's amiss. Today, I'm breaking that silence with a raw, unfiltered check-in from the front seat of my car at Nobbys Beach during an East Coast Low storm system. Despite feeling spaced-out and fatigued, I needed to let you know: I'm still here, still fighting.The past week has been unlike anything I've experienced before – mood swings cycling every 5-10 seconds, bouncing between slightly depressed and deeply depressed states all day long. It's left me completely drained. Yet here I am, forcing myself awake when I'd normally be sleeping for days, seeking mindfulness in the midst of a coastal storm. There's something about standing in driving rain and howling wind that grounds me completely in the present moment – perhaps my own unique form of meditation.My journey to taper off psychiatric medications remains stalled, with NSW Health not providing the responses I'd hoped for. I'm exploring Plan B, C, and D options, though doing this without proper support feels daunting. The contrast couldn't be starker when it comes to therapy – I've experienced major breakthroughs with Internal Family Systems therapy that I can't wait to share once I can properly articulate them. Watch for upcoming therapy reflection episodes where I'll dive deep into these transformative sessions. For those who've been worried about my silence, thank you for your concern. This path isn't linear, but I'm still trucking along. Have you found unexpected sources of mindfulness in your own journey? Share your experiences in the comments or reach out directly.--Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! In the next chapter of My Therapy Reflections, I share a very significant IFS (Internal Family Systems) breakthrough that has reframed how I view some of my darkest moments. When life feels too loud and too bright (which is most of the time), I tend to mentally retreat, like hiding in a tunnel—a cold, dark place that where I sometimes I can sleep for days. But this session revealed something surprising: my internal parts weren't trying to trap me there like I had thought. They were waiting at the top, encouraging me to come back.Even my inner critic—the voice I've long seen as cruel and as my enemy—was there trying to help. Not to tear me down, but to shield me from a world I'm not built for. This unexpected shift helped me see that every part of me, even the ones I've battled with, have been trying to protect me in their own, unique way.I also uncovered a younger part of myself, frozen at age 15, holding trauma I hadn't accessed in years. That story continues in Part B. But in this episode, it's all about beginning to see your inner system not as broken, but as misunderstood. Maybe, like me, you'll start to feel compassion for the parts of yourself you once feared.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! In this episode, Elliot records from inside his car as rain pours down outside, reflecting nicely the turbulence felt within all week. Battling extreme and rapid mood swings that have left him exhausted and overwhelmed, Elliot shares how poor sleep, stimulant medication, grey weather, and sensory sensitivities have compounded to intensify his struggles. As the rain falls mirroring his rapidly dropping mood, he offers listeners a genuine glimpse into the exhausting reality of managing emotional dysregulation and fatigue. --Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! After years of trying a myriad of psychiatric medications—SSRIs, SNRIs, NDRI's, Tricyclics (TCA), mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, stimulants, benzodiazepines, and everything in between—I've reached a breaking point. Nothing has truly worked, my anxiety has never been worse, and the side effects are piling up. My body's jittery, my mind's exhausted, and I'm stuck somewhere between sedation and overstimulation.In this episode, I open up about my plea for a full medication reset. I am wanting to strip things back and start again—clean slate, clean brain. But getting support for that? A whole other battle. This episode is about what it's like to fight for your own mental clarity when everything you've tried has left you feeling worse.--Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! The next instalment of the "My Journal" series sees me having a look at a very recent entry. So recent in fact it was written just yesterday. Unfortunately the tone of the writing is bleak. I explain how across all facets of my life there is pressure building. Pressure for change, the need to perform, and how anxiety derails every effort that I make. No podcast goes this deep into what it is like living with mental ill health. -- Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! I'm back! It's been a little while between episodes, but in this check-in, I bring you along for the ride—literally. I talk about my recent solo road trip to the Gold Coast (via the very chill detour through Nimbin) to watch my beloved Newcastle Knights take on the Titans. The trip was meant to help me slow down and de-stress... but let's be real, it didn't quite go as planned.From battling anxiety on the open road to grappling with post-trip blues (and watching the Knights cop a flogging), this episode unpacks how even our best intentions to rest can get derailed by a dysregulated nervous system. I also touch on CBD oil, the struggle of feeling anxious before and after the trip, and how this lingering anxiety has been nudging me toward a depressive episode I'm now trying to fight off.This one's raw, reflective, and full of the honesty you've come to expect from The Dysregulated Podcast. If you've ever tried to give yourself a break and still ended up overwhelmed, this one's for you.--Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! This week, anxiety hit me in a way that genuinely scared me. Not just the usual panic or dread—but the fear of anxiety itself. When it spirals beyond my control, when I'm bedridden for days, sweating, hiding from the world, and feeling powerless to stop it… that's when the real bad thoughts creep in. I felt like anxiety could take me down at any moment, and I wouldn't be able to get back up.But somehow, I crawled out of my anxious den. I went for a run, got a haircut (despite the social anxiety!), and even found some joy watching the mighty Newcastle Knights claim victory. It was a brutal week, but I made it through. In this episode, I break down what it's like when anxiety becomes overwhelming, how I fought back, and what helped me regain control.--Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Discover Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) with 'The Dysregulated Podcast'! Episode #3: Pros and ConsSupport the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! In this episode of The Dysregulated Podcast, I take you back to one of the most pivotal moments of my entire life —my first kiss. But this isn't just a nostalgic teenage memory; this was the moment that set everything in motion. From high school struggles and crippling self-esteem issues to the deep insecurities that shaped my identity, this night ignited something far bigger than I ever could have realised at the time. Looking back, I can see that this was the spark that ignited my Borderline Personality Disorder. This is lived experience that only this show provides. No other mental health podcast goes this deep, is this raw and is this vulnerable. This is where the mayhem started! And I am still feeling the effects of my teenage trauma today.--Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! In this follow-up to My Therapy Reflections #8 (Part A), I take a clearer look at why my workaholic identity is feeling under threat—and why that makes me so damn anxious. Like so many of my parts, the workaholic exists to protect me, keeping me constantly busy so life doesn't have the chance to bring me down. Always on guard, always working, always driven by pure anxiety. But maybe—just maybe—building my entire identity around being the hardest worker in the room isn't the healthiest way forward. Maybe there's a better way. Or maybe I'm just a confused kid with autism and BPD, struggling with identity and anxieties that never seem to let up. Watch this space though, because I'm determined to figure out what on earth I should be aiming at!--Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Following my last therapy session, my anxiety was still super high—so I decided to run with it! In this episode of The Dysregulated Podcast, I share how I went for a run (big deal) to help soothe my anxious mind. Did it fix everything? No. But did it help? Absolutely. Despite feeling so mentally drained, today turned out to be surprisingly productive—therapy sesh, two podcast episodes, and a run even! Sometimes, you just gotta show up and face anxiety head-on. Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! In this episode of The Dysregulated Podcast, I reflect on an unusually difficult therapy session—one that left me feeling worse instead of better. My anxiety has been at an all-time high, and the very foundation of my workaholic sub-part is being challenged, leaving me feeling unsettled and unsure. It's been a massive day, even before therapy, and I break down the emotions, thoughts, and struggles that came with it. I'm a wounded warrior in this one.--Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! In this episode of 'The Dysregulated Podcast' I take an in depth look at the problems plaguing the NSW public mental health system. Over 200 psychiatrists in the public system have indicated their intention of resigning from NSW Health. This is a disastrous outcome for the people of NSW. Although pay is at the heart of this battle, it isn't necessarily about money. This is about funding a failing system and attracting enough mental health professionals to ensure the NSW mental health system can provide for those that desperately need it.--Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! In this episode of The Dysregulated Podcast, I take a look at the all-too-familiar "Dexy Blues"—the wave of anxiety and depression that hits when stimulant medications like Vyvanse and dexamphetamine start to wear off. I share my experience with these emotional crashes, how my prescription had to be adjusted to soften the blow, and some quick tips to help avoid those tough afternoons. I also reflect on my friends' experiences, how these medications affect her differently and showing how reactions to even the same drugs can vary from person to person. If you're on ADHD meds, I think you'll really relate to this one!----Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! In this episode of The Dysregulated Podcast, I explore the vital role Seroquel plays in my ability to get a good night's sleep and how its absence leaves me battling through the day. Sleep deprivation exacerbates the negative ruminations that seem to take centre stage of my psyche, and today, they've been particularly focused on my inner workaholic—the sub-part of me constantly pushing to apply for new jobs and to (hopefully) improve my life! That is one part of me that doesn't slow down, even if the self has! Join me as I do my best to explain the challenges of sleeplessness, self-criticism, and the weight of unrelenting expectations, all before the Seroquel kicks in and I finally get some rest!-Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Today has been one of those days—the kind where inspiring and motivated emotions go missing. Which is especially tough when you're in an interview trying to present the best version of yourself. That was today's challenge. But that's the thing with mental ill health—you don't always get to pick and choose the good days and the bad. And today was not a good one. Listen as I describe in real-time the feeling of "blergh", the state of being where inspiration, motivation and belief in oneself goes missing. --Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! In this episode of The Dysregulated Podcast, I dive into the power of anger—not the destructive kind, but the controlled, purposeful anger that drives action and transformation. After years of feeling stuck in a career dead-end, trapped by the grip of anxiety, I have used an old trick to shift my mindset. The key? Getting angry! Angry enough to demand more for myself.I explore how channelling anger can override fear and hesitation, offering the strength to push past self-doubt and take bold steps forward. This episode is about finding the fire within, using it to break free from stagnation, and turning frustration into the fuel needed to pursue something greater—like finally using that hard-earned degree!If you've ever felt stuck or powerless, this episode will challenge you to rethink anger as a tool for growth and change. It's time to stop simmering in frustration and start using it to fuel your next move.-Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! In this episode of The Dysregulated Podcast, I take you through my end of year medication review with my psychiatrist. From continuing my taper off certain meds to saying goodbye to others completely, and a revamped approach to managing my ADHD, I share the challenges of finding a balance that works. Tune in as I reflect on the impact of these changes on my mental health, focus, and daily life, and what it all means moving forward!-Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.Support the showTo support the show, CLICK HEREYou can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! After 11 months of sobriety, I've found myself back at square one. In this episode, I open up about my journey with alcohol, the challenges of staying sober, and the reasons behind my relapse. Despite nearly a year without drinking, I struggled to see the big rewards I had hoped for—a new job, a partner, or tangible signs of improvement. My "deal" with the universe felt unanswered.I discuss life with autism and social anxiety, navigating solo outings like Oasis tribute shows, and battling the ever-present negative inner monologue. This led me to reconsider alcohol—not as a vice, but as a "tool" to ease social anxiety and improve confidence, much like medication helps with ADHD. However, I explain the reality that alcohol has never truly solved these challenges, especially when it comes to quieting my inner critic or helping me connect with others.This is an honest reflection on relapse, loneliness, and the complex role alcohol plays in managing social struggles and mental health.

Send Me a Message! In this episode of The Dysregulated Podcast, host Elliot Waters reflects on a significant change in his emotional landscape: the flattening of extreme emotions. No more crying in the shower or panic attacks in bed. Stability is the norm—a welcome change—but it's not all smooth sailing.While life without drastic downturns and hospital trips is a relief, Elliot opens up about the challenges of finding genuine positive emotion amidst this newfound balance. Contentment feels out of reach, with anxiety quietly lurking in the background, and inspiration—often fuelled by strong positive emotions—seemingly elusive.Join Elliot for an honest exploration of what emotional stability in his dysregulated world means, the void that has emerged, and the next steps to rediscover pure happiness and creative spark. If you've ever wondered what it's like to go from chaos to calm, but still feeling as though you are “stuck,” this episode will sound familiar!You can follow me on Instagram: @elliot.t.waters

Send Me a Message! In this episode of The Dysregulated Podcast, I reflect on a successful two weeks of annual leave. For the first time in years, my car, room, and even the house is all clean—and have stayed that way for over a week! It might sound silly, but those with ADHD will understand this all too well. Not only that, but I also laminated a heap of podcast posters (mindfulness exercise) and put them all around Newcastle! I even looked after our family cat Mabel this week, and everything around me is in order. Unbelievable! I do thank my medication Vyvanse, along with my decision to create a vision for the two weeks, build some structure and routine into my days, as helping me navigate away from the blockages ADHD can cause.But ADHD remains a cruel disorder, as I reflect on a friend who just lost their job due to unmanaged ADHD challenges. This stark contrast reminds me how vital treatment and support are. Tune in for my raw, genuine and very real account of what life is like living with ADHD.

Send Me a Message! In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Intake Interviews series, I have a chat with Holly, who I am privileged to call a great friend. At just twenty years old, Holly has faced more challenges than many encounter in a lifetime. From periods of grief to homelessness, and the difficulties of managing ADHD, bullying, and developing mental health complexities, her journey is nothing short of extraordinary.Holly's story is a testament to the enduring human spirit. She has grown stronger, thriving in ways that inspire everyone around her. Her honesty and resilience shine through as she shares invaluable insights about mental health, overcoming adversity, and finding hope.It's a privilege to bring you this episode. Holly's story is raw, honest, and deeply moving—a testament to navigating the trials of mental illness and emerging stronger on the other side. This conversation will leave you moved and uplifted. --Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! In the latest instalment of The Dysregulated Podcast's "My Therapy Reflections" series, I continue using EMDR and Internal Family Systems Therapy to help uncover the source of my constant anxiety. This session led to the discovery of a new sub-personality: the Cognitive Overthinker—a part of me that's always on high alert, overanalysing every situation and is driven by anxiety all in an attempt to keep me safe.In this episode, I get to know this part of myself, reflecting on the overthinker's role in my life, how it's been looking out for me, and what it might take to rebuild trust between this part and my true self. Along the way, trains feature heavily (a classic autistic interest!), beautifully representing the anxiety and overthinking I experience in a way that I understand.Big session this one, uncovering more layers to my psyche, lots of self-discovery, examples of how anxiety has thwarted some of my best efforts over the years, and the complexities of what it's like being me. Tune in to hear how my continued embracing of my internal parts is leading to a greater understanding and opportunities for growth.-Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! In this episode of The Dysregulated Podcast, I dive into the must-dos to maintain positive mental health. Over the next two weeks, I'm committing to rediscovering and reinforcing the core habits and routines that keep me grounded, focused, and mentally clear. I'm talkin' the basics, but the basics that are so important. Although my fundamentals may seem trivial to some, for those with complex mental health disorders they can be a big challenge.Whether you're looking for inspiration to reset your own mental clarity or curious about what it takes to truly "lock in" your fundamentals, this episode offers insights into struggling with the business of life, my personal reflections, and a dose of realness. Pure insight!Let's explore how two weeks of intentional effort can spark positive change. Ready to take on the challenge with me? Let's get started! And thank you for keeping me accountable!Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! In this episode I detail my latest psychiatry appointment, with it being decided to raise my dosage of Vyvanse, with the hopes of further improving my ADHD symptoms. Slow and steady is the key, and I am now back on a dosage I have previously been prescribed after a gradual build up. There are two main issues to keep an eye out for other than effectiveness, that being an increase of anxiety and the potential for intense mood swings. So far, so good. But, I can't find myself falling into an old trap.... Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message!  In this episode of the My Therapy Reflections series, I dive into my latest telehealth therapy session—a format that has always left me feeling a bit uneasy. Despite the anxiety building up of the previous few days, I fought through and completed the session. The major focus of our discussion? My nagging belief that I'm somehow incompetent, particularly in the context of my ongoing struggle to land a new job. However, much of the session feels like a blur as I was dissociated for most of it. Grrr. Tune in as I reflect on the session and share my thoughts on working through anxiety and dissociation in therapy. Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! ** Audio issues: some parts glichy **Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! *This episode contains coarse language*Stell returns to the show, this time showcasing her positive frame of mind. The interview contrasts sharply with Stell's previous appearance, highlighting how mood shifts can deeply influence our thoughts, words, and actions. With BPD and ADHD in particular, we find that there is this constant battle between emotional extremes. These two conversations with Stell when compared with each other, provide an insightful look into the contrasts that can occur within our minds, and how that can play out in the real world. This is as real, genuine, honest and vulnerable as it gets! Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! Medication changes can be tough, but often a revisit to a previous prescription is the best choice. Join me as I recount my latest psychiatrist appointment, where we decided that a stimulant medication, Vyvanse, could be the key to me regaining focus in life and unlocking my potential. I discuss the decision-making process, my history with Vyvanse, and what I'm hoping for this time around. 

Send Me a Message! In this instalment of My Therapy Reflections, I take listeners into the therapy room and uncover two powerful parts of myself: the Inner Critic and the Workaholic. These parts have been working tirelessly for years to protect me, but today I uncover just how much they've been influencing my life. It's a staggering realisation—understanding that while they were born out of a need to keep me protected, their methods are no longer serving my well-being. Join me as I explore how to acknowledge and appreciate their intentions, while convincing them to trust that the Self is ready to lead the way toward a healthier, more balanced life. This episode is all about introspection, healing, and the power of self-awareness. Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future. 

Send Me a Message! Content Warning: This episode includes discussions on substance abuse, mental illness, and motherhood challenges. Listener discretion is advised. This episode also contains explicit material. In the first episode of the Intake Interviews, host Elliot Waters sits down with an old friend, Estelle, whom they met during DBT group therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Estelle's story is one of resilience and unbelievable strength, as she opens up about her struggles with substance abuse, postnatal depression, body image and the complexities of living with BPD while being a mother to three young boys.With the support of her incredible partner, Jords, Estelle has faced these challenges head-on. Together, they're navigating the ups and downs of parenthood, mental health, and recovery. This candid conversation sheds light on the realities of managing mental illness within the context of family life, offering listeners an intimate look at both the difficulties and the strength that comes from facing them.

Send Me a Message! Welcome to The Dysregulated Podcast and the feature series, the Intake Interviews. In this introductory episode, host Elliot Waters sets the stage for a powerful journey into the world of mental health, through the voices of real people with lived and living experience.The Intake Interviews series dives deep into authentic stories of individuals navigating the challenges of mental illness, offering raw insights into their personal journeys, struggles, and triumphs. These conversations aim to spark open dialogue, reduce stigma, and encourage a greater understanding of the complexities of mental health.Join, as we introduce the incredible stories of resilience, hope, and healing that will be shared throughout this series. Whether you're looking for support, connection, or simply a better understanding of mental health, this series is for you.Trigger Warning: This episode and series may contain discussions of sensitive topics, including suicide, self-harm, substance use, sexual violence, domestic violence, trauma, and other mental health-related issues. Please take care of your well-being and seek support if needed.

Send Me a Message! In this episode, I share my first impressions of my new psychiatrist as part of my journey with ADHD. Join me as I discuss the insights I gained, the questions I had, and how this new perspective might shape my understanding of myself and how this developmental disorder affects me every day. Whether you're navigating your own mental health journey or just curious about the process, this episode offers an honest look at the experience of seeking help and the importance of finding the right fit in mental health care. Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! In this episode, I reflect on my time in the psych ward, focusing on a morning meeting that moved me to tears. I've known for a while that this episode was coming, and now I'm grateful to share such an intimate and heartfelt experience with you. It was a profound moment of connection between myself and the other patients—one I'll never forget. Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! In this episode, Elliot shares an update on his therapy journey so far. As anticipated, navigating a complex case takes considerable effort, but there's progress! With two therapies being utilised simultaneously, it's a challenging yet rewarding process—and you're invited to join the ride! Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! I did it! I (somehow) got Oasis tickets for the big reunion tour! But the whole process from announcement to purchase has been one big, imaginary catastrophe. Whether I was successful in getting a ticket or not felt like a life-or-death situation. And I could only see disappointment eventuating. My natural response. Thankfully the hopeful parts of me got me to the front of the queue, with a bit of good luck thrown in. One very significant victory, and we all need wins from time to time....Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past and continue to influence my future.

Send Me a Message! In this episode, Elliot takes us through a deeply personal experience of battling depression, recounting four days spent bed-ridden and being unable to face the world. It's a raw and honest look at how mental illness can take over, even for someone who advocates for mental health awareness.Elliot shares some exciting news about the upcoming Intake Interview series, giving listeners a sneak peek into what's in store for the podcast. Tune in for an episode that's both introspective and forward-looking as we continue to navigate the complexities of mental health together.

Send Me a Message! Follow my journey living with mental illness and the hard-fought lessons learned along the way. Lived experience is the driving force of this podcast, and through this lens, my stories are told. This is a raw, honest, and authentic account of how multiple psychological disorders have shaped my past, and continue to influence, my future.Please support me and the podcast: https://www.patreon.com/elliotwaters