A PsychoDelicious Conversation

On this episode, Mike and Morgan peel back the layers of everyday life that affect mental health. From the top down, factors at the macro, meso, and micro levels can all intersect, affecting one's well-being, and the tapestry of our shared cultural fabric. Grand forces, like the socioeconomic and political climate have downstream influence on communities and individuals alike, where the impact of...

In part two, Mike and Morgan finish their discussion on the effects of shame and explore strategies to alleviate the array of emotions it may bring about. Shame is often held onto as deeply personal and something to be cloaked in secrecy, which further exacerbates the problem. Societal pressures and expectations my deter someone from seeking help, or even acknowledging their own feelings; however,...

In part one of a two part series, Mike and Morgan unpack the intricate phenomenon of shame. Sometimes shame can help us know when we've made an error; however, shame can also lead to internalizing a negative self-image, clouding our ability to see ourselves as worthy. This episode discusses different types of shame, how shame manifests from our experiences and trauma, and how the nature of shame c...

In part two, Mike and Morgan continue to explore the topic of media consumption and its psychological effects on our well being, emphasizing how excessive exposure can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. Through the conversation, they aim to illuminate the potential for media to both positively and negatively influence mental well-being, particularly in the context of doom scrolling and...

This episode delves into the intricate relationship between media consumption and mental health. Mike and Morgan explore their own personal media consumption habits and offer insights into how media influences our psychological well-being, discussing the effects of various forms of information—ranging from traditional news to social media. Pew Research (2023): 61% of U.S. adults feel worn out by t...

Part 2 of this episode delves deeper into the intricate dynamics of childhood experiences and their profound implications on mental health. Mike and Morgan engage in a penetrating dialogue that explores the concept of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), elucidating how such factors can significantly influence one's emotional and physical well-being throughout life. Through the lens of personal a...

This episode delves into the intricate relationship between ancestry, culture, and identity, illuminating how our familial histories shape our present selves. We, Michael Stratton and Morgan Bowen, alongside our producer Daedalian Lowry, engage in a profound exploration of these themes, prompted by a listener's inquiry into the significance of ancestry. Throughout the conversation, we reflect upon...

This second part of A PsychoDelicious Conversation explores the intricate dynamics of stress management, elucidating various strategies that individuals may employ to navigate the pervasive challenges associated with stress. We invite listeners to consider both external and internal approaches to mitigate stressors, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and problem-solving in therapeutic c...

This podcast episode delves into the multifaceted nature of stress, a ubiquitous phenomenon that permeates the human experience. This episode delves into the complexities surrounding stress and its implications for mental well-being. We begin by examining the definition of stress, exploring its dual nature as both a potential catalyst for growth and a source of overwhelming tension. Through person...

The central theme of our discourse revolves around the profound journey of individuals who experience the disorientation of being lost, ultimately seeking to be found. Mike and Morgan aspire to illuminate this intricate process by exploring the human consciousness and the myriad factors contributing to mental health challenges. This episode serves as the concluding segment of a two-part series, wh...

In this episode, Mike and Morgan address a listener's inquiry regarding the concept of "being lost." This experience is a common occurrence that many individuals encounter at various points in their lives. The discussion delves into the complex nature of loss, viewing it not simply as a source of disorientation, but also as a potential impetus for personal growth and self-exploration. Through the...

The central theme of this discussion revolves around the complexities of couples therapy, particularly as it pertains to the dynamics of communication and conflict resolution within intimate relationships. Michael Stratton and Morgan Bowen delve into the myriad issues that often compel couples to seek therapeutic intervention, including financial disagreements, intimacy challenges, and parenting c...

This podcast episode delves into the intricate dynamics of romantic relationships, particularly focusing on the experiences and insights of the hosts, Michael Stratton and Morgan Bowen. We engage in a candid discussion about our personal journeys with partners, revealing the various factors that contribute to successful long-term commitments. As mental health professionals, we underscore the signi...

This discourse delves into the intricate and often misunderstood realm of schizophrenia, emphasizing the necessity of employing sensitive and respectful terminology when discussing mental health. We explore the prevailing misconceptions surrounding this condition, particularly the stigma that often associates it with violence, while clarifying that individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia are more...

This podcast episode presents an insightful exploration of schizophrenia, a serious mental illness that significantly impacts individuals and their families. We delve into the complexities of the disorder, discussing its typical onset during late adolescence or early adulthood, and the profound effects it has on one's perception of reality. Drawing from a documentary about a family with multiple c...

Codependency is a complex and often misunderstood relational dynamic that can significantly impact personal well-being and interpersonal connections. In part two of our conversation, we delve into the intricacies of codependency, defining its characteristics and the underlying psychological frameworks that facilitate its emergence. We explore the critical aspects of fostering self-awareness and es...

The discourse centers around the intricate dynamics of codependency, a phenomenon that often manifests in relational contexts where one individual's focus is predominantly directed towards another's actions and needs, frequently to their own detriment. Michael Stratton and Morgan Bowen dissect the nuances of codependency, elucidating how it can become entrenched in relationships, particularly thos...

Mike and Morgan continue their discussion around the intricate and multifaceted nature of suicidal ideation and the various dimensions that contribute to this grave mental health issue. They delve deeply into the psychological underpinnings that often lead individuals to contemplate such drastic measures, emphasizing the importance of treating the root causes of these feelings rather than merely a...

This podcast delves into the critical and sensitive topic of suicide, addressing its prevalence and the complexities surrounding suicidal thoughts. Mental health professionals Michael Stratton and Morgan Bowen openly share their experiences and insights, emphasizing that while many individuals may have suicidal thoughts, not everyone acts on them. They discuss the importance of understanding the u...

This episode delves into the complexities surrounding cannabis use and its treatment, highlighting the unique challenges faced by individuals dealing with cannabis use disorder. Michael Stratton and Morgan Bowen discuss the lack of established medications for cannabis addiction compared to other substances like alcohol and opioids, emphasizing the need for a tailored approach to treatment. They ex...

This podcast dives deep into the multifaceted conversation surrounding cannabis, exploring its cultural perceptions, potential for use disorder, and the evolving landscape of its legality. Michael Stratton and Morgan Bowen, both mental health professionals, share their personal experiences with cannabis, reflecting on how societal views have shifted over the years. They discuss the concept of cann...

In part 2 of a conversation into the complexities of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Mike and Morgan highlight its symptoms, treatment modalities, and the everyday challenges faced by those affected. They provide valuable insights into how OCD manifests, including compulsive behaviors like excessive throat clearing and hand washing, often driven by anxiety and the fear of judgment from others...

This podcast dives into the complexities of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), exploring its symptoms, behaviors, and the profound impact it has on individuals' lives. Michael Stratton and Morgan Bowen discuss the distinction between obsessions—intrusive thoughts that can feel uncontrollable—and compulsions, the repetitive behaviors that people engage in to alleviate anxiety. They emphasize that...

Part 2 of this podcast episode delves into the pressing issue of opiate use disorder, focusing on the treatment options available for individuals struggling with addiction. Michael and Morgan highlight the severity of the opioid crisis, discussing the intense withdrawal symptoms that can drive individuals back to substance use. They explore medication-assisted treatment, particularly the role of b...

This podcast episode delves into the serious issue of opiate use disorder, exploring its historical context and contemporary implications. Michael Stratton and Morgan Bowen, both mental health professionals, discuss how opiates have been integrated into human culture since ancient times, evolving from medicinal use to a widespread crisis. They highlight the alarming statistics surrounding opioid o...