In this episode of #OurAnxietyStories, the OCD Series, Mark Antczak, from Anxiety Canada interviews Dr. Peggy Richter, a leading expert in obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Dr. Richter, known for her groundbreaking research on the genetic and biological underpinnings of OCD, discusses how to effectively advocate for yourself, access support, and explore various treatment options including medications and therapies. Discover insights from the head of Canada’s premier residential OCD treatment program and a professor at the University of Toronto about effective strategies and resources for managing OCD and supporting loved ones.

In this episode of the #OurAnxietyStories podcast, the OCD series, Mark Antczak, Anxiety Canada’s clinical counsellor, is joined by Dr. Marlene Taube-Schiff. Dr. Taube-Schiff is a registered psychologist with expertise in OCD and anxiety disorders. She founded and is the director of Forward Thinking Psychological Services and co-founded the Sunnybrook Intensive Services Program for OCD. Together, they explore the symptoms and criteria for OCD, the interplay between anxiety and OCD, making meaning of our thoughts, and various strategies for managing intrusive thoughts and behaviours.

Navigating imposter syndrome and public speaking can increase feelings of anxiety for many. When listening to Dr. Matthew Chow, a confident and articulate public speaker, some may be surprised to learn that he deeply understands the overlap of anxiety, fear of public speaking, and imposter syndrome.

In this episode of #OurAnxietyStories, Mark Antczak, Anxiety Canada’s in-house clinical counsellor, engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Matthew Chow, Chief Mental Health Officer at TELUS Health. Dr. Chow brings a wealth of experience and insight, drawing from his extensive healthcare background, which includes specialization in child and adolescent psychiatry. With a personal mission to empower individuals to show up as their best, authentic selves, Dr. Chow shares candidly about his own experiences with anxiety, offering valuable perspectives on the anxiety recovery journey.

Mark and Dr. Chow delve into the intersectionality of anxiety and imposter syndrome, particularly in high-pressure environments and work spaces. Dr. Chow covers how imposter syndrome can manifest, especially in roles requiring public speaking, drawing from his experiences. He emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and reaching out for support; he also highlights the value of accessing mental health resources and being open about challenges at work.

Managing anxiety and imposter syndrome at work can include self-assessment techniques and prioritizing constructive feedback, while leaders can foster psychological safety in the workplace. Dr. Chow shed light on TELUS Health’s proactive approach to mental health, offering a range of resources and initiatives that aim to break down stigma and prevent excessive anxiety. He stresses that preventing challenges is key: "It's not just about supporting people when they've fallen down, or when they're suffering, or when they're having difficulty coping. It’s also about breaking down stigma, preventing challenges and issues in the first place, having psychologically safe workplaces in the first place, so that people can be themselves and mitigate against anxiety."

Dr. Chow also discusses how feedback at work, in life, and on social media can cause a great deal of distress. He highlights the importance of identifying and cherishing helpful feedback. He shares that feedback from somebody that cares about you and "your personal growth and development," is important, as that person "will deliver that feedback in such a way that helps you, rather than hurts you."

Whether grappling with anxiety, imposter syndrome, fear of public speaking, or simply seeking to foster a healthier workplace environment, this episode is valuable for those navigating complex issues with resilience and authenticity. Dr. Chow's words can help empower you to overcome challenges, cultivate self-compassion, and thrive in your personal and professional life.

If you're seeking confidential, one-on-one support for issues in your personal or professional life, TELUS Health MyCare™, a free-to-download app, can help! See a doctor, counsellor, psychologist, or dietitian from your phone (available in select provinces). For a limited time: Thanks to our exciting joint sponsorship, you can book up to two no-cost virtual counselling appointments through the TELUS Health MyCare app. Learn more here.

About the Guest:

Dr Matthew Chow is the Chief Mental Health Officer at TELUS Health, a global health and wellbeing company serving nearly 70 million people across 160 countries. Dr. Chow's personal mission is to enable people and teams to make their highest and best possible contributions as au...