The Royal College of Psychiatrists Podcast

In this special Pride episode of the RCPsych Podcast, we sit down with Dr Bradley Hillier, Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Director of HumanMind Health. With over two decades of experience in trauma, addiction, and LGBTQ+ mental health, Dr Hillier brings both clinical expertise and personal insight to a conversation that is as urgent as it is overdue. Together, we explore the chemsex crisis, a complex and often hidden issue affecting many in the LGBTQ+ community. From the initial allure of disinhibition and connection to the devastating consequences of overdose, psychosis, and suicide, this episode goes beyond the headlines to examine the deeper forces at play: trauma, shame, minority stress, and the systemic gaps in care. We discuss why chemsex has become such a critical public health concern, the barriers that prevent people from seeking help, and what effective, compassionate support can and should look like. We also reflect on the role of institutions, from healthcare providers to dating apps, in either perpetuating harm or becoming part of the solution. This is a sobering but hopeful conversation, one that honours the complexity of chemsex, the resilience of those affected, and the urgent need for coordinated, inclusive, and trauma-informed care.

In this insightful episode, consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr Vic Chapman joins us to explore anorexia nervosa — a complex and often misunderstood eating disorder that affects many young people. Dr Chapman explains the key features of anorexia nervosa, early signs, the psychological and physical impacts, the diagnostic process, and wholistic treatment approaches. She also discusses the importance of early identification and timely intervention, the role of family-based support, and the multifaceted factors that lead to recovery. We also hear from a young expert-by-experience who bravely shares her personal journey with anorexia nervosa. Now in recovery, she reflects on the realities of experiencing anorexia nervosa, the support that made a difference, and what helped them move toward healing. her story brings a powerful and hopeful perspective to the conversation. Last but not least, Professor Dasha Nicholls, an academic child and adolescent psychiatrist at Imperial College, National Specialist Advisor on Eating Disorders, NHS England and RCPsych's Clinical & Strategic Director, National Audits & Research, provides an overview of the latest research and policy developments in the field. She highlights the growing emphasis on personalised care through identifying individual risk factors, and how eating disorders in young people remain a national healthcare priority. Her insights shed light on the future direction of eating disorder care - and highlight the critical role of digitalisation of services and routinely collected clinical data in advancing accessible, tailored support. LINKS: https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/order-mental-health-resources https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/

In this episode, consultant child psychiatrist and NHS England GIRFT Clinical Lead for Children and Young People's Neurodevelopmental Services, Dr. Holan Liang, discusses how Tourette's Syndrome presents in children and young people. She provides an in-depth look at the assessment process, evidence-based management strategies, and the complexities regarding common co-occurring conditions such as ADHD. Dr. Liang also highlights the crucial role of awareness and understanding among those around young people with tics in providing effective support. Dr Liang finishes with the latest scientific research on interventions for tics, covering psychotherapeutic models, medications, and emerging approaches such as nerve stimulation. We also hear the inspiring story of Kian and his mother, Jigna, as they share their journey with Tourette's. They also discuss their advocacy work, shedding light on the challenges faced by children and young people with neurodevelopmental conditions and their caregivers. In the final segment, Lucy Toghill, Education Manager at Tourette's Action, joins the conversation to outline the support and resources available for children and young people through charitable organisations.

Dr. Asilay Seker sits down with Professor Kapil Sayal from the University of Nottingham to discuss the STADIA trial (STAndardised DIagnostic Assessment for children and adolescents with emotional difficulties), which he led. This multicentre randomised controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of incorporating a standardised diagnostic assessment tool into routine clinical care within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). Professor Sayal explains the study's aims, the significance of its findings, and how STADIA offered valuable insights into rethinking CAMHS provision. He also discusses how a more digitalised approach could expand the service's reach and enhance support for young people and families. Asilay is later joined by Professor Andrea Danese. They discuss the complexities of trauma and PTSD, particularly in children and young people. He clarifies the definitions of trauma and PTSD, emphasizing the importance of subjective experiences in understanding mental health outcomes. The conversation also explores the impact of neurodiversity on trauma processing and highlights the need for flexible diagnostic approaches. Finally, Professor Danese underscores the importance of evidence-based treatments for PTSD and the urgent need to improve access to these interventions for affected youth. RESOURCES: https://www.acamh.org/blog/the-stadia-trial-exploring-clinical-and-cost-effectiveness/ https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-020-0880-3 https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/article-abstract/2818046 https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpp.14048 https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpp.14090 We produce mental health information to support young people which can be found in the mental health section of our website. RCPsych also produces factsheets for schools, colleges and other organisations, which cover a range of topics from diagnosable conditions to everyday challenges young people deal with. Written by psychiatrists in collaboration with young people, these are available for schools and college to order online. Click here to order: https://rcpsych.myshopify.com/collections/mental-health-for-young-people-and-children

In this conversation, Dr Elaine Lockhart speaks with Dr Lade Smith, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, about the critical importance of early intervention in mental health, the impact of social determinants and structural racism on mental health services, and the need for psychiatrists to champion community-based solutions. She stresses the urgency of addressing the treatment gap, particularly for children and young people, and highlights the importance of a motivated workforce within the field of psychiatry. Later, Elaine talks to Professor Bernadette Zbikla about her extensive work in child and adolescent mental health, focusing on behavioural activation, the role of antidepressants, and the importance of training staff in CAMHS. She emphasises the need for a biopsychosocial approach to understanding young people's mental health challenges and the significance of fundamental clinical care in practice.

In this New Year special episode, Dr Elaine Lockhart sits down with Dr Hilary Cass to discuss her pivotal role in chairing the independent review into gender identity services for children and young people. She explores the background and growing need for the review, addressing the rise in referrals, key findings, and her recommendations for providing holistic, evidence-based care. Dr Cass highlights the importance of understanding the diverse needs of young people in this sensitive area of healthcare. Meanwhile, Dr Asilay Seker sits down with Dr Saam Idelji-Tehrani to examine the underrepresentation of minoritised ethnic groups in mental health services, focusing on a significant study conducted at Great Ormond Street. Saam discusses the potential impact of unconscious bias in triage processes, barriers to accessing care, and the pressing need for improved data collection on ethnicity. He emphasises the importance of addressing intersectionality and the broader implications of these findings for research and practice.

The conversation explores the evolving understanding of bipolar disorder in children and young people, emphasising the importance of early detection and intervention. Dr Gonzalo Salazar de Pablo discusses the challenges in diagnosing bipolar disorder, particularly the significant delays and the complexities involved in distinguishing it from other mental health conditions. The discussion also highlights the need for personalised treatment approaches and the involvement of young people in research to improve outcomes. We then hear from Simon Kitchen, Chief Executive Officer of Bipolar UK. He explains how his charity plays a vital role in providing support and raising awareness about the condition, as well as what more can be done.

In this podcast, Dr Adi Sharma discusses bipolar disorder, focusing on its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment approaches, and the challenges faced by adolescents and their families. He emphasises the importance of understanding the condition, the need for effective treatment, and the significance of psychoeducation for families. The conversation also highlights the difficulties in transitioning from child to adult services and the personal experiences of young individuals living with bipolar disorder. This discussion delves into the complexities of diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder, particularly in young people. It highlights the challenges faced by families, the importance of early diagnosis, and the role of support systems. The conversation also emphasises the need for workplace adjustments and advocacy to improve the lives of those living with bipolar disorder.

In this podcast, Dr. Adi Sharma discusses bipolar disorder, focusing on its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment approaches, and the challenges faced by adolescents transitioning to adulthood. He emphasises the importance of understanding the condition's onset in teenagers, the role of medication and psychosocial support, and the need for better resources and support systems for young people and their families. The conversation delves into the complexities of diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder in young people, emphasising the need for systemic change in healthcare. Adi Sharma discusses the importance of integrated care within CAMHS, the challenges faced by clinicians due to limited exposure to bipolar cases, and the necessity of training and awareness. Personal experiences shared by Jack and his father highlight the struggles and triumphs of living with bipolar disorder

In this conversation, Angela McCrimmon shares her personal journey with bipolar disorder, discussing her diagnosis at a young age, the challenges of treatment, and the importance of supportive healthcare relationships. She emphasises the need for better understanding and communication in mental health care, as well as the significance of reducing stigma around mental illness. Angela's insights provide valuable lessons for both patients and healthcare professionals.

In this conversation, Naa Adoley Addo shares her journey from psychiatric training in Ghana to her practice in the NHS. She discusses the rigorous training she underwent, the challenges and rewards of working in the UK, and the cultural differences she encounters in mental health care. Naa also reflects on her achievements as a psychiatrist, the balance between her career and motherhood, and the importance of cultural diversity in the psychiatric field.

In this informative episode, child psychiatrist Dr. Jenny Parker provides an in-depth exploration of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), discussing its neurodevelopmental nature, common symptoms, and the effects it can have on children and young people. Dr. Parker explains the process of diagnosing ADHD and examines a range of treatment options, including psychoeducation, lifestyle changes, and medication. She offers practical advice for parents and teachers on how to better support children with ADHD, while also addressing the challenges these individuals may encounter as they transition into adulthood. The episode also features an insightful conversation with Dylan, a young person diagnosed with ADHD, who shares his personal experiences. Dylan discusses how he manages his symptoms through physical activity and medication, and highlights the crucial role of support from his family and teachers. His story offers a relatable perspective on living with ADHD, encouraging others to embrace their condition and stay true to who they are.

This podcast, hosted by Drs Elaine Lockhart and Asilay Seker, will focus on ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), a common neurodevelopmental condition affecting children and young people. Prof Samuele Cortese from the University of Southampton will give an update on the latest research in this area. This is followed by an interview with Prof Ian Kelleher who works at the University of Edinburgh. We will hear about his work and about what is coming up at our annual conference at the College at the end of September.

Mood States is a collection of sculptures by artist Annabel Merrett. They investigate how emotions, feelings and motivations can be exposed by art. Merrett began this series by constructing self-portrait heads using her own cranial measurements. Cross sections were then cut into heads – in the grand tradition of the anatomists – to plumb the depths of her mind physically. Inside, we find a series of bold and poetic symbols which spill out and invade the heads, just as strong and troubling emotions eventually invade our bodies. This podcast is to mark the end of Annabel's residency, and celebrate the art she created.

n this episode, we are joined by Dr. Manoj Kumar, the RCPsych South Asian Chair, to discuss the mental health landscape in South Asia, with a focus on India. Dr. Kumar shares insights into the region's mental health challenges, cultural attitudes, and systemic barriers to care. We explore innovative solutions, the role of technology, and the importance of community engagement. Dr. Kumar also highlights RCPsych's initiatives in South Asia and how global mental health professionals can support these efforts. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on advancing mental health care in South Asia.

The vice-chair in Scotland, Dr Pavan Srireddy took part in a special podcast for the Public Audit Committee in the Scottish Parliament. Dr Srireddy was joined by convener of the Committee Richard Leonard MSP and Anne Rowan, found of suicide charity, Chris's House. The group discussed the findings of a recent report into mental health and what should happen next.

An open and honest conversation looking at living with schizophrenia. Hosted by Dr Jane Morris, with guest Graham Morgan.

In this episode of the Royal College of Psychiatrists Podcast, host Dr Daniela Borges, a general adult psychiatry registrar and secretary of the Psychiatric Trainees Committee (PTC), delves into the theme of the national trainees conference: "Next Generation in Psychiatry." With insights from key figures like the Dean of RCPysch, Professor Subodh Dave, and discussions with conference organisers and speakers, including PTC Chair Laura, the episode explores the evolving landscape of psychiatry practice. Join us on April 25-26!

In this bumper episode to mark International Women's Day, our Presidential Leads for Women and Mental Health Dr Philippa Greenfield and Dr Catherine Durkin host a conversation with Dr Amrit Sachar, Joint Presidential Lead for Equity and Equality, and Louise Howard, Professor of Women's Mental Health at Kings College London. The conversation looks over the specific determinants and risk factors that impact disproportionately on women's mental health, and much more. Links to reports mentioned: https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/a-review-of-health-and-social-care-in-womens-prisons/ https://www.england.nhs.uk/about/equality/equality-hub/national-healthcare-inequalities-improvement-programme/core20plus5/ https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/improving-care/nccmh/service-design-and-development/advancing-mental-health-equity https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366(23)00412-1/fulltext https://www.thelancet.com/commissions/intimate-partner-violence

Curious about what it takes to contribute to the College's vibrant community? This episode is a must-listen! Join us and Dr. Daniela Borges, a dedicated Psychiatric Trainees' Committee (PTC) Rep, as she shares the motivations behind her College role, keeping the balance between professional and College commitments, and encouraging you to contemplate your potential impact within the College. For more information, visit rcpsych.ac.uk/elections

In honour of Black History Month, the Royal College of Psychiatrists proudly presents a special episode dedicated to celebrating the extraordinary contributions of black female psychiatrists, and delves deep into the vital issues of racism and equity within the field of psychiatry. Hosted by Dr. Uju Ugochukwu, she is joined Dr. Itai Matumbike and Dr. Mona-Lisa Kwentoh to share their experiences, knowledge, and perspectives.

On this episode to commemorate World Mental Health Day, Professor Mohammed Al-Uzri, one of the College's Presidential Leads, takes us on a deep dive into his work on the Global Mental Health Strategy.

The College is celebrating Black History Month by exploring the relationship between Mental Health and the Arts. We've teamed up with author, poet, editor of BJPsych Muses, and psychiatrist, Dr. Dami Ajayi to create a series of content exploring the theme. For this podcast, we're delighted to introduce you to Oluwatunmise Oladapo Kuku, podcaster, life coach, and author of Living Mindfully A Journey to Being. Alongside Tunmise is Ms Praise Ogabi. Listen to their in-depth conversation where they share stories of dealing with mental illness, as well as their relationship with using art as a form of therapy.

In this podcast to celebrate Pride 2023 we speak to Dr Chris Walsh, Chair of the College's Psychiatric Trainees Committee to discuss his journey from Liverpool to Psychiatry, his creative background, and his advice to LGBTQ+ folks looking to choose psychiatry as a career. Note this is an updated version of the podcast which was reuploaded to correct an issue.

During Mental Health Awareness Week the College is raising awareness of the challenges people with serious mental illnesses, or SMIs, face, Rehabilitation psychiatry plays a crucial role in helping individuals with serious mental illnesses to achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. In this podcast we hear from Dr Katie Fergus, an expert in rehabilitation psychiatry with a wealth of experience in this field

The theme for International Women's Day 2023 is 'Embrace Equity'. We conducted a 2 part podcast with Professor Henrietta Bowden-Jones OBE and Dr Trudi Seneviratne OBE on the importance of equity for women in the mental health space.

In this podcast we hear from three trainees, who each talk about one way the College encourages and supports flexibility in psychiatry training. We also go into how we'll be making training even more flexible over the next five years. It was hosted by Dr Declan Hyland, our Associate Dean for Choose Psychiatry (Careers), and we heard from Dr Rachel Kerrigan, Dr Jacqueline Haworth, and Dr Jehan Elturky. View the transcript on our website: https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/news-and-features/podcasts/detail/choose-psychiatry-making-training-flexible

In this podcast, Dr Peter Carpenter is interviewing Dr Angela Rouncefield (a Founder Member of the College) on her involvement in the events leading to the creation of the RCPsych in the 1970s, her experiences as a trainee and new consultant at St Lawrence's Lunatic Asylum in Bodmin, and the creation of the South West Division.

in this podcast to celebrate Pride 2022, Head of Digital at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Peter Markham, interviews Jesse, a partnerships manager and recovery worker from The Outside Project, as well as Dr Jenny Drife, adviser to the College on homelessness.

In the sixth and final episode of the series, Dr Shevonne Matheiken is joined by Professor Femi Oyebode and Dr Shubulade Smith to discuss their lived experiences as doctors of ethnic minorities living and working in the UK. They discuss white privilege, dealing with micro aggressions, barriers to raising issues and the role of allies in nurturing an inclusive and fair society/workplace.

As part of our celebration of Mental Health Awareness Week, Dr Mani Krishnan, spoke to us about the effects of loneliness, and the impact it had on the vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The wonderful Dr Katherine Kennet joins us for International Women's Day to discuss the climate crisis and the direct and negative effect this has on women and girls, especially those living in the Global South. Katherine talks on both the economic and mental health aspects of climate change and of course, what we can do in our own lives to aid the crisis.

The Chair of the Faculty of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr Elaine Lockhart, and her colleagues Dr Guy Northover, Dr Alka Ahuja and Dr Louise Theodosiou reflect on a written piece from a young man who went through the CAHMs system. They also discuss their childhoods and the changes they would like to see for young people in mental health support. This podcast contains a first-hand account of self-harm.

Dr Deepa Bagepalli Krishnan is joined by Dr Ananta Dave - Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and President of the British Indian Psychiatric Association(BIPA) - and Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Raja Adnan Ahmed. They discuss their early experiences as International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and how this has shaped their role as current leaders and educators in psychiatry

Trainee and PTC Rep Dr Niamh Sweeney is joined by Mr Simon Fleming - Trauma and Orthopaedic surgeon registrar known for his award-winning campaign 'Hammer It Out' - and Dr Sridevi Kalidindi senior consultant psychiatrist, leadership executive and life coach. They discuss the impact of bullying and harassment on trainees.

Award-winning actress and filmmaker Dr Parvinder Shergill discusses her latest project, TWELVE, a film on eating disorders. You'll find information on the Faculty of Eating Disorders, anorexia and bulimia and eating disorder resources and reports on our website.

We are joined by Dr Beena Rajkumar, Dr Syeda Ali, and sexual-harassment lawyer Deeba Syed to unpack the femicide pandemic. In honour of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on the 25th of November, our guests discuss the impact of violence on women's mental health and the tragic murders of Bibaa Henry, Nicole Smallman, Sarah Everard and Sabina Nessa.

We have a very special podcast as part of our Choose Psychiatry campaign on dual training. Dual training involves psychiatrists being fully experienced across two key disciplines. Joining us we have three dual trainees, Dr Ross Runciman, Dr Orima Kamalu and Dr Jennifer Parker, who are all involved in General Adult and Old Age Psychiatry. We will be discussing the highs and lows of learning two different specialties, career development and staying motivated.

Joining us on the podcast, we have Michelle Joseph, who is a patient representative here at the Royal College of Psychiatrists. For Black History Month, Michelle will be sharing her experience of being a patient on a psychiatric ward, her experience of racism in the UK and how she would alter the mental health system to benefit both staff and service users.

Professor Mohammed Al-Uzri joins the Royal College of Psychiatrists to discuss the inequalities that people with mental health needs and disabilities face in modern society. A Consultant Psychiatrist & Associate Medical Director, Professor Al Uzri also talks about a hopeful future and managing stress.

For World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September 2021, RCPsych is joined by Dr Alex George to discuss male suicide, social isolation and mental health education. Dr Alex George is a doctor, author and mental health ambassador for the UK government. Since starring on Love Island in 2018, he has campaigned for more attention and funding on young people's mental health, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Are we overlooking postnatal depression in fathers? What kind of pressures are we putting on new dads? We are joined by author Mark Williams and psychiatrist and filmmaker Dr Parvinder Shergill, who both came together on the wonderful short film that is "Daddy Blues." Daddy Blues takes a look at postnatal depression in dads and is based on a true story.

The Psychiatric Trainees Committee (PTC) are proud to present this podcast series that celebrates the lived experience of colleagues and explores topics affecting physician wellbeing. In the third episode, PTC member Dr Rehana Kauser speaks to Dr Jaco Nel and Dr Kathleen Inglott about their experiences of training and working as doctors with disabilities. Credits Music: Dr Alex Serafimov (composer and electric piano) and Dr Süreyya Melike Toparlak (guitar)

The Psychiatric Trainees Committee (PTC) are proud to present this podcast series that celebrates the lived experience of colleagues and explores topics affecting physician wellbeing. In the second episode, PTC vice-chair Dr Shevonne Matheiken speaks to two trainees who have been shielding during the COVID-19 pandemic, Drs Leanne Tozer and Raka Maitra.

This podcast is part of the celebration of South Asian History Month here at the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Dr Santosh Mudholkar explores thoughts on the interaction between culture, music and the brain. Historically, art and music have played a prominent role in South Asian culture in bringing people together and lifting mental wellbeing.

We are joined by two wonderful psychiatrists Dr Shevonne Matheiken and Dr Poorna Nagasinghe for South Asian History Month. In this podcast we will be discussing what it's like to have family living back in South Asia during the pandemic, the effect of COVID on deprived communities and finding solace in singing.

The Psychiatric Trainees Committee (PTC) are proud to present this podcast series that celebrates the lived experience of colleagues and explores topics affecting physician wellbeing. In the first episode, PTC rep Dr Daniel Wilkes speaks to Finding True North author and psychiatrist, Professor Linda Gask and medical student Usama Ali. Credits Music: Alex Serafimov (composer and electric piano) and Süreyya Melike Toparlak (guitar) Further resources can be found at https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/ptc

Our second PrideCast this month features two experts by experience in mental health, James and Mark. James reflects on the struggle to receive the right kind of help for his eating disorders, OCD and ADHD. Whilst Mark unpacks the bullying he experienced in his childhood for being gay. This podcast contains topics that some listeners may find upsetting.

This month we have two very special PrideCasts to celebrate Pride month! We will be talking to Dr Sarah Stansfeld and Lesley Fraser about gay conversion therapy, active steps the government could take to support the LGBTQ+ community, and of course, the difficulties among patients and staff that have arisen during the pandemic.

Join us for our final episode of the climate change miniseries where we interview psychotherapist Roger Duncan. Roger speaks on his fascinating research into attachment styles, the wilderness and his vital work connecting teenagers to their natural environment.

Our lead author on the College's sustainability position statement, Dr Katherine Kennet, joins us to discuss the importance of integrating the natural world with more traditional therapy and how she would encourage other mental health professionals to use ecotherapy.