"Jaxon and the Pharmacist"

Whether it's conciously or subconsciously done, some people just can't seem to get out of their own way -- be it in the form of poor relationship decisions, an underlying fear of career success, or one's overall happiness and well-being. What are some of the signs and behavior patterns, and how can each be addressed through therapy?

Social anxiety is essentially Brian's Kryptonite. He and Courtney examine not only its symptoms, warning signs and origins, but also how it can be treated and managed, along with what friends/loved ones can also do to help.

How often do relationships survive infidelity? What warning signs require attention in advance? Can preemptive steps be taken to reduce the risk? And how effective can couples therapy be in the aftermath, regarding issues of trust, guilt, shame, anger, blame and grief?

"You have to love yourself before you can love someone else." Maybe yes, maybe no. But one approach is undoubtedly far healthier than the other. How does one identify low self-esteem, and once it has been, what's the most effective way to tackle the problem?

Perhaps the only thing worse than the profound sense of loneliness gripping 2/3rds of Americans ever since the pandemic began, is the reluctance of more than half of them to talk about it. Courtney and Brian discuss all of that (and more), here.

Does every responsibility on your plate carry with it an extreme sense of urgency? Are you constantly trying to stay ahead of multiple tasks, with even the smallest of interruptions putting your anxiety into overdrive? If so, all of this may be causing even more problems than the obligations themselves. How can that be managed? Find out here.

Trauma can come in many forms, some of which may surprise you. Recognizing the signs is step number one -- whether that comes from within yourself, or if you suspect it to be an issue for someone you love. How to address and treat it from there is critical. All of that (and more) is covered this week.

We've discussed both toxic negativity and positivity in the past, but what about toxic productivity? Having an enormous work ethic can be a plus to a degree. But when it crosses a particular line, is it perhaps being used to mask or avoid other issues you may be experiencing? There's much in the way of layers for Courtney and Brian to explore here -- including how it may pertain to some of their own unhealthy behaviors.

Unsurprisingly, alcohol intake has been on the increase throughout the pandemic. How much is too much when it comes to said coping mechanisms? If you develop a problem, what's the best course of action to take? And if someone in your life is struggling, how should it be handled on your end?

There is no "one size fits all" when it comes to depression and anxiety. Some people make mountains out of molehills, while others may make molehills out of mountains. What forms can be both healthy and/or unhealthy, and how is all of it best managed?