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Is perimenopause more than just hot flashes and mood swings? Have you ever felt like you're unraveling as your body shifts, grappling with brain fog, relentless fatigue, and even unexpected rages that leave you reeling with guilt? Join Dr. Geri Lynn Utter with her hilarious and relatable friends, Sue and Rae, as they discuss the messy realities of perimenopause, hysterectomies, libido lows, and the daily battle against the urge to commit "utter nonsense" in the face of it all. In this no-holds-barred conversation, they openly discuss the shocking lack of awareness surrounding perimenopause, the frustrating experience of self-advocacy with OB/GYNs, and the bewildering array of symptoms that go far beyond the stereotypical hot flash. They candidly explore the challenges of balancing their own health with the demands of raising active kids, managing households, and maintaining relationships, acknowledging the sheer exhaustion that modern life layers on top of hormonal shifts. 

Discover the importance of journaling your symptoms, the potential benefits of resources like The Menopause Society (menopause.org), and the comforting reminder that you are absolutely not alone in this bewildering journey. If you've ever felt blindsided by the changes in your body and wondered, "What the honest f**k is going on?", then prepare to feel seen, heard, and maybe even a little less insane, because in this episode, the raw, unfiltered truth of navigating womanhood in midlife is laid bare, proving that while it might be utter nonsense, facing it together makes all the difference.

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Ever feel like you're juggling a demanding career, personal life, and the often-elusive realm of intimacy, only to drop all the balls at once? Is the pursuit of "work-life balance" a myth, especially when the lines blur between your professional persona and your most private moments? Join Dr. Geri Lynn, Dr. Trish, and Nick as they bravely open up and discuss the messy realities of navigating these interconnected aspects of life. From the unique challenges of a public-facing job where personal anecdotes become on-air content, to the universal struggles of exhaustion impacting connection with loved ones, they unpack the pressures we all face. Explore the performative nature of modern life, the shifting dynamics of desire in long-term relationships, and the surprising truth about maintaining intimacy, even when the initial spark fades. 

Discover practical advice on communication, scheduling, and the power of simply having fun to reignite connection. Learn why that feeling of being "touched out" is more common than you think and how open dialogue can bridge the gap between unspoken needs and relationship satisfaction. Whether you're navigating the early infatuations or the comfortable rhythms of a long-term partnership, this episode offers refreshing perspectives and relatable experiences that will leave you feeling seen and empowered to prioritize what truly matters.

Prepare to have your preconceived notions challenged and your understanding of healthy relationships profoundly shifted.

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Can the echoes of a chaotic childhood and the invisible wounds of trauma truly define a life, or can self-awareness and unwavering support forge a path toward healing amidst the "utter nonsense" of mental health struggles? Imagine a world where the very people meant to nurture you become the source of profound instability, marked by addiction, inconsistency, and moments of sheer terror. Journey into the raw and unfiltered conversation between clinical psychologist Dr. Geri Lynn Utter and her sister Dominique, who bravely shares her experience living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) shaped by a tumultuous upbringing. Witness their candid exploration of the complexities of BPD, from its potential hardwired nature and the societal misinterpretations fueled by platforms like TikTok, to the agonizing push-pull dynamics in relationships driven by deep-seated fears of abandonment and rejection. 

Uncover the intricate tapestry of trauma, the desperate yearning for love and consistency in the face of parental addiction, and the arduous journey toward self-awareness through years of therapy. Feel the emotional weight of Dominique's battles with intense emotions, impulsive behaviors, and the constant testing of loved ones, juxtaposed with Dr. Geri Lynn's professional insights and unwavering sisterly support. This isn't just a discussion about a diagnosis; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of honest conversation to dismantle stigma and foster understanding. 

Prepare to have your perceptions challenged and your heart moved, because within this deeply personal narrative lies a universal truth about the enduring impact of our earliest experiences and the lifelong pursuit of mental well-being – and you might just recognize pieces of your own story within theirs, compelling you to truly listen.

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Have you ever wondered how a relationship that began with overwhelming affection and promises of a perfect future could slowly morph into a suffocating web of control and fear? Dr. Geri Lynn Utter and Dr. Trisha Gratson discuss the insidious nature of coercive control, revealing how abusers skillfully mask their true intentions behind a facade of kindness and charm, a tactic often referred to as love bombing. This manipulation isn't limited to romantic partnerships; it can infiltrate various dynamics, including families, cults, and even professional settings where power imbalances exist. The discussion uncovers the subtle ways tension builds, how seemingly innocuous requests evolve into rigid demands, and the devastating impact of isolating victims from their support systems. 

They explore the various forms of control beyond physical violence, such as financial manipulation, sleep deprivation, and the weaponization of affection followed by cycles of abuse and gaslighting. Understanding these tactics is crucial, not only for those who may be experiencing them but also for friends and family who often struggle to comprehend why someone they care about remains in a harmful situation. The experts shed light on the psychological mechanisms at play, including indoctrination, cognitive dissonance, and the feelings of shame and embarrassment that can trap individuals in these cycles. Importantly, they emphasize that coercive control transcends gender and age, highlighting the diverse contexts in which it can occur and the critical role of recognizing power dynamics. 

If you've ever felt uneasy about the subtle shifts in a relationship or struggled to understand why someone you know seems trapped, this episode offers vital insights into the hidden currents of control that can devastate lives, urging us to look beyond overt abuse and recognize the more insidious forms of manipulation.

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In a world where media often sensationalizes the complexities of mental health, how do we distinguish between accurate portrayals and damaging stereotypes? Dr. Geri Lynn Utter and Dr. Trisha Gratson dig into this critical question, dissecting the depiction of psychologists in Hollywood, particularly focusing on the controversial portrayal in the Menendez brothers case. 

In this two part series, they tackle the ethical minefields of patient confidentiality, dual relationships, and the responsibilities of mental health professionals. The conversation explores the nuances of maintaining boundaries, the impact of personal struggles on professional conduct, and the fine line between guidance and harm. From the sensationalized accounts in movies to the realities of mandated reporting and the duty to warn, they both offer a compelling look behind the scenes, challenging us to reconsider our perceptions of therapy and the vital role of ethical practice. 

Prepare to have your assumptions challenged as they reveal the profound impact of a therapist's actions and inactions, and the potential for both healing and devastation. This episode isn't just informative; it's a call to safeguard the sanctity of the therapeutic relationship and protect those at their most vulnerable.

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Are you feeling overlooked, irritable, and like you want to "throat punch the lady in front of you at Target"? Join Dr. Geri Lynn Utter and her friends, Rae and Sue, who are also registered nurses, as they dive into the utter nonsense of perimenopause. 

Discover how these women are navigating the challenges, triumphs, and the often-dismissed symptoms of this phase of life. Learn about the non-textbook symptoms, the importance of advocating for yourself, and the potential for hormone replacement therapy. Explore personal experiences, the impact on mental health, and the struggle to find adequate guidance and support. 

Prepare to laugh, learn, and feel empowered because this episode will leave you feeling validated and ready to take charge of your health!

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Dr. Geri-Lynn Utter, a licensed clinical psychologist with a passion for dismantling stigma, kicks off season two of "Get Mental with Utter Nonsense." In this refreshingly honest episode, Dr. Utter unveils her own journey to becoming a therapist, fueled by a desire to help others and heal from her own complex family background.

Get ready for real talk as Dr. Utter discusses:

• Breaking free from the pressure to be "perfect" and embracing the challenges of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
• The power of therapy and how to find the right fit for you.
• Why humor, even dark humor, can be a healthy coping mechanism.
• What to expect from this season, including deep dives into borderline personality disorder, sexology, and the Menendez brothers' case from a psychological perspective.

This episode is for you if you're looking for a mental health podcast that's both informative and entertaining. Dr. Utter's relatable experiences and willingness to be vulnerable create a space where you can learn, laugh, and feel empowered on your own mental health journey.

Connect with Geri: You can reach out to Dr. Utter with suggestions for future topics and ideas! Send her a message here! 

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"Get Mental with Utter Nonsense" is a dynamic mental health podcast hosted by psychologist Dr. Geri-Lynn Utter. The show dives into all things mental health with a no-judgment approach, blending education, empathy, and humor to tackle tough topics like addiction, trauma, relationships, and resilience. Dr. Utter brings her professional expertise and lived experiences to the table, breaking down complex issues in a relatable way and often featuring candid conversations with guests. The podcast aims to destigmatize mental health struggles, offering hope, practical insights, and even a few laughs along the way.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoy the show, let us know and leave a rating to help others join the conversation.