In today's episode, host Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with the esteemed Dr. Sanjeev Sockalingam, a champion of mental health integration and connection with roles at the University of Toronto and CAMH. Together, they delve into the critical importance of destigmatizing mental health, emphasizing equal treatment for mental and physical health impairments.

From practical self-care approaches and the impact of social determinants on wellness to the challenge of balancing extreme cases and everyday stress, Dr. Sockalingam shares profound insights. They humorously touch on screening calls and the evolution of talk therapy, while seriously addressing the rising mental health crisis linked to technology and social media.

Join us as we explore the intricacies of mental health care, the importance of finding purpose and meaning, and the evolving landscape of therapy. Dr. Bonta's reflections and personal experiences add depth, making this episode not just informative but also deeply personal and inspiring. Let's dive in and start destigmatizing mental health together!

Timestamps :
05:24 War fosters collective purpose for mental health.
07:27 Historical rates of mental health conditions compared.
10:30 DSM: Standardizing mental health diagnosis for consensus.
13:42 People using phones to seek dopamine release.
17:46 Understanding mental health conditions making normal abnormal.
22:16 Setting routines and physical health improve mental wellness.
24:56 Adopting healthy habits is challenging despite awareness.
27:14 Social determinants of health affect patient care.
29:47 Contrasting extremes of poverty and wealth in health.
33:19 Control and purpose combat burnout and distress.
37:13 Transitioning to retirement, finding new purpose.
40:32 Psychological treatments, research, and therapeutic alliance importance.
44:45 Setting boundaries, targeting, and intervening in therapy.
46:08 Being informed about mental health professionals is important.
50:02 Discussion on prevalence and funding disparity in healthcare.
56:18 Finding purpose, maintaining mental health through conversation.
57:32 Feedback welcome for interesting, understandable healthcare guest talks.

Welcome to "Ditch the Lab Coat," the podcast where we dive deep into health issues and medical discussions with leading experts.

In today's reflection episode, Dr. Bonta revisits some of the most insightful conversations from the past 19 episodes, touching on key topics in medical education, mentorship, and the evolving landscape of healthcare.

Join us as Dr. Bonta delves into the value of ongoing mentorship, the importance of simulations, and the delicate balance of personal well-being for medical professionals. We'll explore the impact of AI in healthcare, the significance of end-of-life discussions, and the ongoing challenges of chronic disease management. Plus, we'll tackle pressing issues like children's mental health, the rise of screen time, and even some practical information about managing allergies.

Whether you're a medical professional or just passionate about science-based skepticism in healthcare, this episode is packed with valuable insights. So, sit back, relax, and let's ditch the lab coat together.

Timestamps :
05:31 Children need advocacy for voice and rights.
08:28 Struggles at work, need to decompress.
11:28 Obesity viewed as medical condition requiring compassion.
13:08 Prepare for potential harm, seek professional help.
16:02 Angiograms and heart procedures are routine, significant.
21:56 Balancing screen use, health, and technology impact.
24:01 Teaching simulation, heart surgery, martial arts comparison.
27:41 Struggle to implement change, still highly beneficial.
29:04 Accessible school routine for children and anxiety.
31:39 Join Doctor Bonta for science-based health talk.

Welcome to "Ditch the Lab Coat," the podcast where we dive deep into health issues and medical discussions with leading experts.

In today's episode, Dr. Mark Bonta chats with psychiatrist Dr. Nik Grujich, who specializes in mood and anxiety disorders and directs mental health programs at the University of Toronto.

Together, they'll explore the intricacies of prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD, the evolutionary roots of anxiety, and the line between normal and abnormal behavior. They'll also tackle the impact of modern technology on children's mental health, delve into the complexities of diagnosing mental health conditions using the DSM and ICD, and highlight the resilience of the human mind.

From personal stories and cultural insights to professional perspectives on mental well-being, this conversation promises a comprehensive look at the ways our minds cope with adversity and how therapeutic techniques can foster resilience. Plus, hear their engaging discussion on the role of cognitive behavioral therapy and the promising future of biomarkers in mental health diagnosis and personalized care.

Get ready for an enlightening and thought-provoking episode that underscores the importance of holistic health and the powerful intersection between our minds, behavior, and physical well-being. Join us for this compelling conversation on "Ditch the Lab Coat" with Dr. Nik Grujich!

Timestamps :
06:52 Immigrant upbringing, limited discussion, led to psychiatry.
11:11 Socialization and nurturing have evolutionary and practical aspects.
19:40 Anxiety leads to checking and relief.
20:34 Obsessive compulsive disorder: intrusive thoughts, rituals, distress.
27:11 Anxiety linked to evolution and survival instincts.
36:39 Anxiety disorders, specific phobias, and PTSD.
38:15 Specific phobias may not be relevant.
43:53 Parents struggle to address their children's anxiety.
52:08 Anxiety treatment involves trust, support, and challenge.
57:07 Flooding therapy works, especially for PTSD treatment.
01:01:35 Rick Arsenault, a specialist in internal medicine, leads advanced training for unexplained symptoms nationwide. His approach integrates mind and body, with remarkable results, including lower recurrence of heart attacks compared to medication use.
01:05:26 Fascination with normal and abnormal human behavior.