In this episode, BZE and BZW speak with Dr. Michael Schneider, a veteran dentist, about the connection between anxiety and dental health. They discuss the rise of anxiety-related dental issues, strategies for addressing dental phobia, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for patients.

Additionally, Dr. Schneider highlights the role of the oral microbiome in overall health and the mental health challenges faced by dental professionals. This conversation underscores the need for empathy and clear communication in fostering trust and comfort in dental care.

HIGHLIGHTS:

4:47 Meet Dr. Michael Schneider

6:38 Dental Anxiety and Empathy

9:03 Systematic Desensitization in Dentistry

15:39 Building Trust with Patients

20:09 The Oral Microbiome Explained

25:51 Dr. Schneider's Dental Journey

29:39 Addressing Dentist Mental Health

33:46 The Importance of Patient Relationships

connect with Dr. Schneider:

website: https://www.michaelschneiderdmd.com

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) Website

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) Website

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

In this episode of Anxiety Matters, the Bonnies discuss the complexities of phobias and the necessity of professional treatment. Both share personal experiences and case studies that highlight the psychological mechanisms of phobias and the effectiveness of exposure therapy.

They examine various phobia types, including fears of flying, and explore the role of medication for severe cases. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing the impact of phobias on quality of life and their implications for personal growth, making this a valuable resource for understanding phobias within the mental health landscape.

HIGHLIGHTS:

3:42 The Role of Exposure Therapy

5:11 Understanding the Origins of Phobias

8:47 A Case Study: Snake Phobia

11:11 Addressing Fear of Flying

17:17 Panic Attacks vs. Phobias

22:08 When to Seek Treatment

28:44 Types of Phobias

32:23 Upcoming Dental Anxiety Discussion

mentioned in the episode:

Flying without Fear by Duane Brown

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) Website

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) Website

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

In this episode, BZW and BZE speak with Robyn Goldberg, a renowned dietitian nutritionist, about the intricate relationship between food and anxiety, particularly in eating disorders.

They discuss her holistic approach to treatment, the spectrum of disordered eating, and insights from her book, *The Eating Disorder Trap*. Robyn emphasizes the importance of awareness among healthcare professionals and shares practical tips on mindful eating, empowering listeners to foster healthier relationships with food.

HIGHLIGHTS:

7:25 Robin's Journey into Dietetics

9:19 Specializations and Clientele

9:40 The Eating Disorder Trap Book

10:35 Overlooked Eating Disorders

12:43 Training Gaps in Medical Fields

14:49 Food Anxiety and OCD

17:34 The Role of Family in Recovery

24:32 Understanding Eating Disorders

29:49 Lesser-Known Eating Disorders

32:24 The Brain-Gut Connection

33:49 Mindful Eating Practices

35:41 Diet Culture vs. Intuitive Eating

42:15 Addressing Emotional Eating

connect with Robyn:

website/book/free course: https://askaboutfood.com

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) Website

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) Website

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

BZE and BZW examine the intricate relationship between anxiety, depression, and co-occurring mental health conditions. They discuss how untreated anxiety can lead to depressive symptoms and share personal anecdotes about coping mechanisms like exercise.

Their conversation dives into the commonality of these disorders, the significance of identifying symptoms, and the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in addressing them concurrently. Both highlight the importance of physical activity, social connections, and mindfulness as strategies for improvement.

In conclusion, they emphasize the value of taking small steps toward mental wellness and encourage listeners to engage in meaningful actions for change.

HIGHLIGHTS:

5:08 Exploring Depression and Anxiety

10:10 Understanding Treatment for Anxiety and Depression

14:58 Diagnosing Depression

18:13 Strategies for Overcoming Depression

24:18 The Importance of Movement

29:13 Setting Realistic Goals for Well-being

31:24 Conclusion and Next Steps

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) Website

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) Website

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

In this episode, the Bonnies delve into the critical issue of sleep deprivation among teenagers, guided by their esteemed guest, Lisa Lewis, an accomplished journalist and author of "The Sleep-Deprived Teen." With her extensive background covering topics at the intersection of parenting, education, and public health, Lisa brings invaluable insights into the pressing need for greater awareness about sleep’s role in adolescent well-being.

They discuss how early school start times contribute to chronic sleep issues, impacting mental health and academic performance. Lisa shares strategies for parents to promote healthy sleep habits and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing rest over late-night studying. This conversation serves as a crucial reminder for families to make sleep a priority for overall well-being and success.

HIGHLIGHTS:

5:08 Lisa Lewis: The Sleep Advocate

10:11 The Journey to Advocate for Sleep

11:39 Understanding Sleep Deprivation in Teens

15:32 Factors Contributing to Teen Sleep Issues

17:23 The Importance of Sleep Debt

24:15 Mental Health and Sleep Connections

29:10 Effective Study Strategies for Teens

32:35 The Role of Technology in Sleep

37:01 Setting Healthy Phone Boundaries

39:36 Closing Thoughts and Recommendations

connect with Lisa:

The Sleep Deprived Teen book/website: https://www.lisallewis.com

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) Website

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) Website

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

In this episode of Anxiety Matters, the Bonnies delve into the intricate relationship between personal experiences with anxiety and the professional insights gained as psychologists specializing in this field. The discussion unfolds as they explore how their own issues with anxiety influences not only their therapeutic practices but also their approach to daily life as a parent and individual.

Moving into practical solutions, BZE and BZW discuss the significance of naturalistic exposures — real-world opportunities to confront anxiety in everyday situations. Both share experiences where they actively apply psychological techniques, such as resisting the urge to seek excessive reassurance or engaging in compulsive behaviors linked to OCD.

They also unpack the subtle nuances of performance anxiety across various contexts, from public speaking to navigating social interactions. Encouraging listeners to seek small, everyday moments to challenge their anxiety, emphasizing that every little effort contributes to a larger shift in confidence and comfort. This aligns with the overarching therapeutic principle that avoidance only exacerbates anxiety, creating a tighter grip on one’s actions and choices.

They also touch upon the impact of digital technology on anxiety, particularly in the face of health anxiety, where devices that monitor bodily functions can inadvertently amplify fear and avoidance behaviors. BZE shares her personal journey with technology’s role in her sleep health, highlighting the need for conscious engagement with the tools we use, especially if they have the potential to trigger anxiety.

Throughout the conversation, the Bonnies advocate for embracing discomfort as a pathway to growth, asserting that acknowledging and accepting the possibility of panic or anxiety can be liberating rather than debilitating.

The episode culminates in a strong message about expanding one’s comfort zone through daily exposures, leading to a more empowered and less anxiety-driven life. By transforming anxiety into actionable insights, they aim is to provide listeners with tangible strategies for self-management and resilience.

HIGHLIGHTS:

3:39 Parenting and Emotional Validation

4:45 Overcoming Health Anxiety

8:29 Naturalistic Exposures in Daily Life

13:41 Performance Anxiety Explored

18:46 Social Anxiety and Technology's Impact

20:45 Mindful Eating and Connection

23:59 Technology's Role in Panic Attacks

27:11 Managing Panic and Specific Phobias

35:18 Facing Fears and Finding Opportunities

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) Website

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) Website

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

In this episode of the Anxiety Matters podcast, BZE and BZW engage in a profound discussion with Lybi Ma, executive editor of Psychology Today and author of the upcoming book "How to Be Less Miserable."

They explore anxiety's complex relationship with mental health and societal trends, touching on topics like gaslighting and toxic relationships that resonate with many. Lybi shares her insights on the transformative power of nature and personal experiences, including her journey through challenges such as divorce, which shaped her perspective on emotional acceptance.

Emphasizing emotional literacy, they discuss the impact of culturally informed attitudes towards emotions and the importance of seeking credible mental health information in an age of social media. As they anticipate the release of Lybi's book, they reflect on its aim to help individuals cultivate a sustainable sense of well-being amidst life's intricacies.

HIGHLIGHTS:

6:45 Exploring Popular Mental Health Trends

11:29 The Rise of Mental Health Awareness

12:36 The Impact of Social Media

16:41 Insights from a New Book

25:27 Cultural Perspectives on Emotions

31:01 Lessons from Personal Experience

connect with Lybi:

How to Be Less Miserable book: https://www.amazon.com/How-Be-Less-Miserable-Negative/dp/B0F4G5JT6Q

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) Website

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) Website

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

Bonnie West and Bonnie East, address the intricate relationship between anxiety and significant global issues impacting children's mental health. They unpack how the emotional weight of crises like climate change and social unrest affects young minds.

Their conversation emphasizes practical strategies for instilling agency in children, encouraging actionable steps toward environmental responsibility. BZW and BZE also advocate for mindful media consumption to help kids navigate a landscape filled with distressing information.

Ultimately, both stress the balance between awareness and emotional well-being, promoting gratitude and positive decision-making amidst the chaos. This episode invites listeners to explore personal agency and joy while grappling with life's complexities.

HIGHLIGHTS:

6:01 Addressing Climate Anxiety

10:21 Coping with Environmental Concerns

16:00 Managing Information Overload

19:12 Fostering Gratitude and Hope

21:45 Navigating Teen Consumerism

28:48 Finding Joy Amidst Challenges

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) Website

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) Website

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

In this episode of Anxiety Matters, BZW reflects on her return home after the LA wildfires, exploring the emotional challenges of replacing belongings and navigating insurance. This experience prompted a reevaluation of her relationship with consumerism and sustainability, connecting to the theme of eco-anxiety.

The ladies discuss BZW's recent HuffPost article regarding trauma and coping mechanisms, highlighting how anxiety can lead to irrational fears. Drawing from their psychology backgrounds, they discuss the impacts of catastrophizing and emphasize adaptability amidst uncertainty. Ultimately, they illustrate how adversity can foster personal growth and a stronger appreciation for the present.

HIGHLIGHTS:

2:15 A New Perspective on Consumerism

4:16 Reflections from the Fire Aid Concert

7:29 Understanding Catastrophe and Anxiety

14:16 Coping with Uncertainty

17:06 Resilience Through Adversity

19:49 Exploring Catastrophic Thoughts

23:23 Embracing a Resilient Mindset

mentioned in this episode:

Huffpost Article: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/stevie-nicks-palisades-fire-la-home_n_68b71366e4b0cd019d22ff2c/amp

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) Website

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) Website

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

In this episode of the Anxiety Matters podcast, it's all about anxiety, people-pleasing, and the shift from FOMO to JOMO, or the Joy of Missing Out. Drawing from their personal experiences, BZW and BZE engage in a spirited conversation about the transformation many have undergone since the pandemic and how it has reshaped their preferences regarding social interactions and personal well-being.

BZE reflects on her own journey of both embracing solitude and finding joy in staying home during the pandemic. She shares anecdotes about how she created memorable staycations for her family in lieu of travel, creatively transforming their home into various thematic experiences. This exploration leads to a discussion about the profound changes in societal behavior regarding social commitments influenced by isolation and technology. They articulate how the pre-pandemic FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) has shifted for many to JOMO, highlighting how some individuals have developed a newfound appreciation for being at home or engaging in solitary activities.

The dialogue naturally transitions into the difficulties faced by individuals with social anxiety and their tendency to agree to social plans out of a desire to please others, even when it doesn't align with their true feelings. They examine the slippery slope of being overly accommodating, noting how it can exacerbate anxiety and lead to a cycle of flakiness. They emphasize the importance of mindfulness in handling social invitations, advocating for setting boundaries and honoring one’s own needs while nurturing relationships.

HIGHLIGHTS:

0:59 Discovering JOMO and FOMO

6:18 The Impact of Social Anxiety

12:54 Understanding People Pleasing

20:10 Balancing Personal Preferences

26:24 Podcast Dynamics and Personal Growth

27:35 Key Takeaways for Listeners

mentioned in this episode:

The Disease to Please: Curing the People-Pleasing Syndrome

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) Website

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) Website

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.