Back from the Borderline

Facing a spiritual emergency and need guidance? Learn how to blend self-care with expert assistance in our series conclusion. In a world where mental health dialogue often vacillates between strict biomedical interpretations and elusive new age spirituality, the concept of spiritual emergence stands out. It's a profound experience that defies simple classification, often overlooked in mainstream mental health due to its focus on clinical aspects, neglecting the deeply personal and transcendent elements of psychological crises.

This final installment in this 3-part series delves into the treatment of spiritual crises through the lens of the work of transpersonal psychiatrist Dr. Stanislov Grof. We explore effective psychotherapeutic strategies that recognize these states not as pathological conditions, but as gateways to healing and transformation. This involves understanding the extended cartography of the psyche, including perinatal and transpersonal realms. Whether it's through experiential therapy or holistic approaches, the right treatment can facilitate emotional and psychosomatic healing, psychological transformation, and consciousness evolution.

Navigating the treatment of spiritual crises can be challenging, particularly in finding therapists who are adept at handling such complex transformations. This episode provides recommendations for seeking appropriate therapists, including whom to approach and whom to avoid. It brings Grof's work into the 21st century, highlighting the difficulty of finding insurance-compatible therapy and offering insights into managing spiritual crises with limited resources. I also share my personal journey, revealing how I moved through my own spiritual crisis with constrained finances and no health insurance. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of self-guided healing.

Reference: http://www.totallyalivecore.com/images/Spiritual_Emergencies_-_Article_by_Stan_Grof,_PhD.pdf

 Spiritual Emergence Network Resources: https://www.spiritualemergence.org/

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

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Have you ever secretly rejoiced in someone else's misfortune? This episode peels back the layers of schadenfreude, a complex emotion often hidden in plain sight.

Schadenfreude, the feeling of pleasure derived from another's troubles, is a concept deeply ingrained in human nature, yet it's rarely acknowledged openly. We delve into its origins and the psychological underpinnings that make us susceptible to this emotion. Why do we experience it, and what does it say about our societal values and personal insecurities?

Through real-life narratives, we examine schadenfreude from both sides. One story explores its role as a defense mechanism, highlighting how personal insecurities and envy can lead to feelings of satisfaction in others' failings. The contrasting narrative focuses on experiencing schadenfreude from the receiving end, unraveling the emotional complexities and unspoken tensions it creates in relationships. In dissecting these stories, we confront uncomfortable truths about human nature. This episode is an investigation into our darker impulses and a call to greater self-awareness and empathy. Join me in exploring the intricate dynamics of schadenfreude and what it reveals about our inner selves.

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

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What if your deepest struggle was a gateway to total inner transformation? Explore the types of spiritual emergencies and their hidden meanings. Dive into Part 2 of this 3-part series, 'Spiritual Emergency,' and explore the intriguing concept of psychospiritual crises. Through the lens of the work of transpersonal psychiatrist Dr. Stanislav Grof, this series examines the fine line between profound spiritual awakening and overwhelming psychological breakdowns.

In today’s world, discussions around mental health often oscillate between rigid, biomedical interpretations and the sometimes evasive positivity of new age spirituality. This dichotomy leaves little room for the complex reality of spiritual emergence, a profound and transformative experience that defies simple categorization. Too often, mainstream mental health discourse excludes the spiritual dimension entirely, favoring a strictly clinical approach that may overlook the deeply personal and transcendent aspects of psychological crises. Part 2 delves into the various forms of spiritual crises identified by Dr. Grof and his wife, Christina. We discuss diverse experiences, ranging from Shamanic crises, in which individuals undergo profound transformative journeys, to Kundalini awakenings, marked by intense physical and emotional upheaval. We also cover episodes of unitive consciousness or peak experiences, a renewing psychological process through a return to one's inner center, and crises of psychic opening, where individuals encounter intense psychic phenomena.

Additionally, this episode unpacks past-life experiences, communication with spirit guides and the phenomena of "channeling," near-death experiences (NDEs), and close encounters with UFOs and alien abduction experiences. Finally, we explore possession states, where individuals feel overtaken by external entities, and the concept of alcoholism and drug addiction as forms of psychospiritual crisis. This comprehensive exploration aims to shed light on these varied and often misunderstood experiences, offering insights into their transformative potential and the challenges they pose. Join us in unraveling the complexities of these spiritual emergencies, as we navigate the mysterious intersection of psychology and spirituality.

Having mystical experiences dismissed as being purely ‘psychotic,’ ‘borderline,’ or ‘schizophrenic’ not only denies the spiritual validity of what we’re going through but also adds an unnecessary element of fear and terror to the experience. This fear and terror can be profoundly crippling and can make the whole experience much more difficult than it really needs to be. This episode is not just an academic exercise but a guide to recognizing and understanding the profound changes these crises can precipitate.

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

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Welcome to another preview of a Patreon-exlusive episode where we dive into an enchanting journey into the realm of dreams and tarot. As I continue to hone my skills in Dream Tending and Jungian Tarot Reading, under the guidance of Dr. Stephen Aizenstat and Dr. Ken James, we delve into the fascinating world of lucid dreaming and its profound impact on our psyche.

In this episode, we embark on an exploration of lucid dreaming – its nature and the varied cultural perspectives surrounding it. We also delve into the intriguing concept of prophetic dreams. What have historical and antiquarian accounts told us about the importance placed on dreams in foreseeing the future? Additionally, we examine the critical connection between dreaming and mental health. How do disruptions in our dream states affect our mental well-being?

Our focus then shifts to interpreting the captivating and vivid lucid dream of Lauren, a listener and Premium Submarine. Her dream begins in the familiar setting of her childhood bedroom, a place raised by her grandparents, which holds deep-seated memories and emotions. An invisible force, a representation of unseen influences or emotions, particularly relating to her recent life upheavals, including a separation and ending a toxic friendship, drags her through the house. This force leads her to her grandparents' bedroom, a childhood sanctuary, but now it feels altered – familiar yet different, like an 'other mother' figure, symbolizing her evolving perceptions of her past and its impact on her life.

Lauren's dream is a vivid tapestry, reflecting her inner journey of dealing with significant life changes, confronting past influences, and seeking new paths for healing and growth. Join us as we unravel the symbols and themes of her dream, providing insights for deeper self-awareness and empowerment.

HAVE YOUR DREAM FEATURED ON A FUTURE EPISODE: Remember, if you want your dreams or tarot questions to be featured in future episodes, send them to [email protected]. Please ensure that the email address linked to your Patreon account is included in your submission. This is crucial for verifying your active, paying membership status. Submissions without this verification will not be considered. By the time I read your email, you must be an active Premium Submarine on Patreon for your submission to be featured.

UNLOCK THE FULL VERSION OF THIS EPISODE: visit https://www.patreon.com/backfromtheborderline to join the community on Patreon. From here, you'll be able to access all full-length (and ad free!) episodes of BFTB.

CONTACT ME CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To read my Substack articles, access my Amazon book recommendation list, submit a voicemail, or contact me for collaborations, visit https://linktr.ee/backfromtheborderline.

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Have you ever wondered if there’s more to your psychological struggles than meets the eye? Dive into Part 1 of our 3-part series, 'Spiritual Emergency,' and explore the intriguing concept of psychospiritual crises. Through the lens of the work of transpersonal psychiatrist Dr. Stanislav Grof, this series begins by examining the fine line between profound spiritual awakening and overwhelming psychological breakdowns.

In today’s world, discussions around mental health often oscillate between rigid, biomedical interpretations and the sometimes evasive positivity of new age spirituality. This dichotomy leaves little room for the complex reality of spiritual emergence, a profound and transformative experience that defies simple categorization. Too often, mainstream mental health discourse excludes the spiritual dimension entirely, favoring a strictly clinical approach that may overlook the deeply personal and transcendent aspects of psychological crises. On the other end of the spectrum, certain strands of new age spirituality engage in 'spiritual bypassing', where the challenging, darker facets of spiritual growth are overshadowed by an emphasis on positivity and light. This series delves into the critical middle path, exploring the concept of 'Spiritual Emergency', a term that captures the tumultuous yet potentially enlightening journey of the psyche during profound moments of transformation. It's a journey that acknowledges the darkness and the light, offering a more holistic and integrated understanding of our mental and spiritual well-being. Having mystical experiences dismissed as being purely ‘psychotic,’ ‘borderline,’ or ‘schizophrenic’ not only denies the spiritual validity of what we’re going through but also adds an unnecessary element of fear and terror to the experience. This fear and terror can be profoundly crippling and can make the whole experience much more difficult than it really needs to be.

In this first episode (part 1 of 3), we unravel the essence of 'Spiritual Emergency' and 'Emergence,' terms that represent the transformational potential hidden within challenging psychological experiences. We delve into Dr. Grof's groundbreaking article, exploring the significance of these crises in the lives of shamans, religious founders, and spiritual seekers. This discussion sheds light on how what's often labeled psychotic in mainstream psychiatry could, in fact, be a critical phase of personal transformation and spiritual openness. Join me as we dissect the triggers of spiritual emergencies, from physical ordeals to profound emotional traumas, and how these crises can catalyze an inward journey of self-discovery. We also discuss how traditional psychiatric diagnoses often miss the mark in understanding and supporting these transformative states.

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

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Join me for a deep dive into an exciting research initiative spearheaded by honors student Pearl Meredith at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Under the guidance of Principal Investigator Dr. Jocelyn Lymburner, this study seeks to transform our perception and relationship with the Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) label.

The heart of this research lies in understanding the lived experience of those diagnosed with BPD. If you're at least 16 years old and have been clinically diagnosed with BPD, your participation could be pivotal in reshaping how BPD is viewed and treated. The study's goal is to explore diverse individual experiences with BPD, focusing on personal interpretations, management strategies, and their overall impact on well-being.

As a listener of Back from the Borderline, your involvement in this study is not just an opportunity to contribute to vital research but also a chance for personal reflection. Participation involves completing an anonymous, 30-minute survey via Qualtrics, where you'll share insights about your mental health care experiences, thoughts, and feelings related to your BPD diagnosis. Your privacy and comfort are paramount, with the assurance of anonymity and voluntary participation. And there's an added incentive: all participants can enter a draw for one of four $50 VISA gift cards.

But that's not all. If you don't meet the study requirements or simply wish to stay informed, you have the option to sign up to receive the study results once completed. This is a unique opportunity to stay connected with the latest advancements in understanding BPD.

In this episode, we not only delve into the nuances of the BPD label, discussing its empowering and harmful aspects, but also emphasize the importance of your voice in this study. Your experiences, challenges, and insights are invaluable in paving the way for a more empathetic and informed approach to BPD. Join me in this enlightening episode as we venture into the world of BPD, highlighting the crucial role your stories play in advancing mental health research and understanding.

Your voice matters, and this is your chance to make it heard.

TO PARTICIPATE, VISIT: https://kpupsychology.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8joXR6DMB0lnT2C [The study will take approximately 30 minutes of your time. All participants must have received a clinical diagnosis of BPD and be at least 16 years of age or older.

DEADLINE FOR PARTICIPATION: March 1st, 2024

TO RECEIVE THE RESULTS OF THE STUDY, VISIT: https://kpupsychology.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6Rm9tCpZkIob7JI [perfect for those who are not eligible to participate, but are still interested/invested in this topic]

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE STUDY: Reach out to Pearl directly at [email protected]

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Do you find yourself questioning the authenticity of watered-down mainstream spirituality and seeking a deeper truth? Join me for a candid chat with Christian Bradley West, a unique voice in the realm of intuitive arts and spiritual exploration. This conversation isn't your average spiritual dialogue; it's a raw and real journey through the complexities of new age beliefs and the quest for authentic spiritual awakening. Christian, an artist and intuitive, shares his own path from a sensitive child in the south who found himself mixing in mystical circles to a guiding light in the often murky waters of modern spirituality. We unravel the layers of his multifaceted journey, exploring how his diverse experiences shape his approach to life and spiritual seeking.

Together, we tackle the tricky terrain of "new age spiritual woo-woo," dissecting how to discern the genuine seekers from the often delusional, ego-blinded gurus and influencers. Christian's insights into the pitfalls of spiritual absolutism and the danger of one-size-fits-all paths offer a refreshing perspective in an area crowded with false prophets and empty promises.

Our conversation takes a turn towards the poetic, discussing the mystics who embraced the beauty of unknowing and the importance of recognizing the allegorical nature of most spiritual texts. We delve into finding magic in the mundane and humor in our darkest moments, offering a lifeline for those seeking meaning in a seemingly senseless world. This episode is more than an interview; it's a heart-to-heart between two friends unraveling the essence of a down-to-earth awakening process. It's a guide for those seeking to navigate the spiritual marketplace without getting lost in its illusions. Together, we’ll journey through the labyrinth of spirituality, guided by Christian's wisdom and experience. It's a conversation for anyone yearning to break free from the confines of mainstream spiritual narratives and embark on a truly personal journey of discovery and transformation.

Connect with Christian at https://www.christianbwest.com/

Follow Christian on Instagram @thecountryclairvoyant

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this exclusive Back from the Borderline episode preview, we dive deep into the often invisible yet overwhelming world of “mental load” within relationships. Listener Geneva opens up about her decade-long journey with a partner, sharing how she silently took on the role of managing everything—a common experience that reveals an often-unspoken burden in many relationships. But this isn’t simply about dividing household chores; it’s about the layers of emotional labor and the subtle mental toll that can quietly strain our relationships and self-worth.

Through Geneva’s story, we explore:

• The Mental Load Trap: Why do some partners take on an unequal share of managing tasks and responsibilities? Geneva’s journey shows how this can lead to cycles of overextension, passive-aggressiveness, and resentment.
• Unseen Emotional Labor: Beyond daily tasks, there’s a mental and emotional balancing act that often goes unnoticed. How does carrying this weight impact emotional well-being and relational stability, especially for those with intense emotions and abandonment fears?
• Emotional Boundaries and Self-Worth: This episode delves into the reasons behind overextending ourselves, exploring how the mental load can become a mask that conceals deeper insecurities and a desire for validation.
• Introducing the 'Fair Play' Method: We discuss this innovative approach to rebalancing emotional and physical labor in relationships, not just as a method of fairness but as a transformative tool for mutual respect and understanding.

This conversation is more than a guide to reducing resentment; it’s a pathway to greater self-awareness, emotional alchemy, and healing in relationships. If you’ve ever felt the weight of “doing it all,” this episode offers insights and strategies to find balance, deepen connection, and redefine what it means to truly share life with someone. Join me for a transformative journey into the heart of relationship dynamics and self-discovery.

RESOURCES:

✧ Fair Play by Eve Rodsky

✧ Time Out: A Fair Play Podcast

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are we sacrificing our mental well-being at the altar of social media and Big Tech? In this episode, I sit down with 21-year-old Thanasi Dilos, a pioneering voice for his generation's mental health and digital safety. Forgoing college to advocate for change, Thanasi shares his powerful journey, shedding light on the toll that tech companies’ profit-driven models take on millennials, Gen-Z, and Gen Alpha. Through his work with the youth-led organization Design It For Us, backed by influential supporters like Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, Thanasi is mobilizing change to confront the unchecked influence of social media on our psychological health.

In this episode, we explore:

• The Mental Health Toll of Social Media: How Big Tech’s business models exacerbate mental health struggles in young people and the urgent need for change.
• A Generation’s Call for Digital Safety: Thanasi’s efforts to mobilize young people, creating initiatives that prioritize ethical data practices and user well-being.
• Building Empowered Digital Experiences: Strategies for empowering youth to take control of their digital lives and protect their mental health.
• The Rise of Youth-Led Advocacy: Insights into how Thanasi’s organization, Design It For Us, is shaping the conversation on online safety and advocating for ethical reforms in tech.

This episode is more than just an interview—it’s a powerful call to action for a safer, more conscientious digital landscape. Whether you’re navigating the effects of social media yourself, a parent concerned for your child’s well-being, or simply interested in the future of mental health in the digital age, this conversation offers crucial insights into the transformative steps needed to protect the next generation.

RESOURCES:

✧ Connect with Thanasi at www.thanasidilos.com

✧ Share your story or take action at https://designitforus.org/

✧ Read more about “Wait Until 8th” at https://www.waituntil8th.org/

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to your free preview of the first in a brand-new Patreon-exclusive series, where we delve into the art of tending to dream symbols and the exploration of the psyche through the wisdom of the tarot. As I’ve previously mentioned, I’m currently in the process of gaining certifications in both Dream Tending and Jungian Tarot Reading, courtesy of my studies under previous BFTB guest Dr. Stephen Aizenstat and Dr. Ken James.

In this episode, we dive into two different dreams from Premium Submarine, Emilia. In the first dream, she encounters a mysterious owl in her childhood garden, leading to a surreal flight and an exploration of personal transformation. The second dream takes us to a desert where Emilia finds crystals that unexpectedly connect to the Greek god Dionysus, opening insights into her journey of self-discovery and change. In this episode, I use Jungian depth psychology and dream symbolism to unpack these dreams. We’ll look at what they might signify about Emilia’s life changes, her rediscovery of creativity, and emerging from a period of personal challenges.

This is not just an interpretation of Emilia's experiences but a chance for all of us to reflect on the symbols and themes that appear in our own dreams. Join me in this unique dive into the subconscious, exclusive to our Premium Submarine community.

✧ WANT YOUR DREAM FEATURED ON A FUTURE EPISODE?  ✧

First, you’ll need to be a Premium Submarine on Patreon. To sign up, visit www.patreon.com/backfromtheborderline.

Next, send your dream to [email protected]. Please ensure that the email address linked to your Patreon account is included in your submission. This is crucial for verifying your active, paying membership status. Submissions without this verification will not be considered. By the time I read your email, you must be an active Premium Submarine on Patreon for your submission to be featured.

✧ LEARN MORE ABOUT  THE ART OF DREAM TENDING AT https://dreamtending.com/. ✧

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