In the second of our series of podcasts exploring ways in which we can help members to thrive in psychiatry, we're looking at the ways in which employers can create an environment for psychiatrists to feel supported and flourish in their careers. We speak to leaders and psychiatrists at Lancashire and South Cumbria Foundation Trust, where a wide range of supportive measures have been introduced and schemes to help psychiatrists grow into their roles and thrive.

In the first of a series of podcasts exploring the challenges members face, we discuss what needs to be done to support psychiatrists with carer responsibilities, and to support neurodivergent psychiatrists. We also discuss taking a break and the role of employers, and delve into leadership and why it might be something you should try. The College's Presidential Lead for Retention Dr Ananta Dave speaks to Dr Raka Maitra, Dr Shevonne Matheiken and Dr Derek Tracy.

In this Black History Month edition of our podcast, we gave the mic to the first members from the Aggrey Burke Fellowship participants. They discussed their motivations for joining, memorable experiences, the importance of representation in psychiatry, and the challenges they faced. They reflect on how the fellowship has shaped their perspectives on mental health, career development, the significance of networking and mentorship in their journey as future psychiatrists, and what it means to stand in power and pride.

As part of their summer internship at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, 17-year-olds Anisa and Barira took on the challenge of producing their very own podcast episode. Curious about the role of artificial intelligence in mental health, they sat down with Dr Prateek Varshney, a child psychiatrist and medical educator, to explore the promises and pitfalls of AI in psychiatry.

From self-diagnosis online to the risks of people forming emotional attachments to chatbots, this conversation asks whether technology can support psychiatry, or if it risks undermining the very human connections at its core.

Disclaimer: This interview was part of a learning journey for the interns. The questions, ideas, and conversations you’ll hear reflect their curiosity and Dr Varshney’s insights. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are personal and do not necessarily represent those of the College.

In this special episode for South Asian Heritage Month, Dr Hassan Mahmood - Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Learning Disability and Autism in Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust - hosts an inspiring conversation with Dr Syeda Zakia Shaherbano - Consultant Psychiatrist specialising in learning disabilities and autism, and Dr Shaheen Shora - a Consultant Psychiatrist and Clinical Director, whose personal and professional journeys from South Asia to the UK illuminate the power of resilience, community, and cultural identity.

Through heartfelt storytelling, they explore how their lived experiences have shaped their careers in psychiatry, enriched their understanding of patient care, and driven innovation to address health inequalities. From overcoming personal challenges to advocating for culturally sensitive mental health services, this episode celebrates the strength found in heritage and the transformative role of diversity in the NHS.

In this special Pride episode of the RCPsych Podcast, we sit down with Dr Bradley Hillier, Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Director of HumanMind Health. With over two decades of experience in trauma, addiction, and LGBTQ+ mental health, Dr Hillier brings both clinical expertise and personal insight to a conversation that is as urgent as it is overdue.

Together, we explore the chemsex crisis, a complex and often hidden issue affecting many in the LGBTQ+ community. From the initial allure of disinhibition and connection to the devastating consequences of overdose, psychosis, and suicide, this episode goes beyond the headlines to examine the deeper forces at play: trauma, shame, minority stress, and the systemic gaps in care.

We discuss why chemsex has become such a critical public health concern, the barriers that prevent people from seeking help, and what effective, compassionate support can and should look like. We also reflect on the role of institutions, from healthcare providers to dating apps, in either perpetuating harm or becoming part of the solution.

This is a sobering but hopeful conversation, one that honours the complexity of chemsex, the resilience of those affected, and the urgent need for coordinated, inclusive, and trauma-informed care.

🔗 Resources:

Antidote: Drugs & Alcohol Support - https://londonfriend.org.uk/antidote/

Terence Higgins Trust - https://www.tht.org.uk/get-help/support-services/lets-talk-about-chemsex?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=365455812&gbraid=0AAAAADqE5LTRex_CnCIf2geu1V3uSh7ob&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0qTCBhCmARIsAAj8C4adP-iVa0EmsE3-tMxQ_9NWSeMt5j3DBRKovugHWb5DA3Ji7U98T_saAkJcEALw_wcB

LGBT Foundation - https://lgbt.foundation/help/chemsex-support-and-advice/

In this insightful episode, consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr Vic Chapman joins us to explore anorexia nervosa — a complex and often misunderstood eating disorder that affects many young people. Dr Chapman explains the key features of anorexia nervosa, early signs, the psychological and physical impacts, the diagnostic process, and wholistic treatment approaches. She also discusses the importance of early identification and timely intervention, the role of family-based support, and the multifaceted factors that lead to recovery.

We also hear from a young expert-by-experience who bravely shares her personal journey with anorexia nervosa. Now in recovery, she reflects on the realities of experiencing anorexia nervosa, the support that made a difference, and what helped them move toward healing. her story brings a powerful and hopeful perspective to the conversation.

Last but not least, Professor Dasha Nicholls, an academic child and adolescent psychiatrist at Imperial College, National Specialist Advisor on Eating Disorders, NHS England and RCPsych’s Clinical & Strategic Director, National Audits & Research, provides an overview of the latest research and policy developments in the field. She highlights the growing emphasis on personalised care through identifying individual risk factors, and how eating disorders in young people remain a national healthcare priority. Her insights shed light on the future direction of eating disorder care - and highlight the critical role of digitalisation of services and routinely collected clinical data in advancing accessible, tailored support.

LINKS:

https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/order-mental-health-resources

https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/

In this episode, consultant child psychiatrist and NHS England GIRFT Clinical Lead for Children and Young People’s Neurodevelopmental Services, Dr. Holan Liang, discusses how Tourette’s Syndrome presents in children and young people. She provides an in-depth look at the assessment process, evidence-based management strategies, and the complexities regarding common co-occurring conditions such as ADHD. Dr. Liang also highlights the crucial role of awareness and understanding among those around young people with tics in providing effective support. Dr Liang finishes with the latest scientific research on interventions for tics, covering psychotherapeutic models, medications, and emerging approaches such as nerve stimulation.

We also hear the inspiring story of Kian and his mother, Jigna, as they share their journey with Tourette’s. They also discuss their advocacy work, shedding light on the challenges faced by children and young people with neurodevelopmental conditions and their caregivers.

In the final segment, Lucy Toghill, Education Manager at Tourette’s Action, joins the conversation to outline the support and resources available for children and young people through charitable organisations.

Dr. Asilay Seker sits down with Professor Kapil Sayal from the University of Nottingham to discuss the STADIA trial (STAndardised DIagnostic Assessment for children and adolescents with emotional difficulties), which he led. This multicentre randomised controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of incorporating a standardised diagnostic assessment tool into routine clinical care within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). Professor Sayal explains the study’s aims, the significance of its findings, and how STADIA offered valuable insights into rethinking CAMHS provision. He also discusses how a more digitalised approach could expand the service’s reach and enhance support for young people and families.

Asilay is later joined by Professor Andrea Danese. They discuss the complexities of trauma and PTSD, particularly in children and young people. He clarifies the definitions of trauma and PTSD, emphasizing the importance of subjective experiences in understanding mental health outcomes. The conversation also explores the impact of neurodiversity on trauma processing and highlights the need for flexible diagnostic approaches. Finally, Professor Danese underscores the importance of evidence-based treatments for PTSD and the urgent need to improve access to these interventions for affected youth.

RESOURCES:

https://www.acamh.org/blog/the-stadia-trial-exploring-clinical-and-cost-effectiveness/

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-020-0880-3

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/article-abstract/2818046

https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpp.14048

https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpp.14090

We produce mental health information to support young people which can be found in the mental health section of our website. RCPsych also produces factsheets for schools, colleges and other organisations, which cover a range of topics from diagnosable conditions to everyday challenges young people deal with. Written by psychiatrists in collaboration with young people, these are available for schools and college to order online.

Click here to order: https://rcpsych.myshopify.com/collections/mental-health-for-young-people-and-children

In this conversation, Dr Elaine Lockhart speaks with Dr Lade Smith, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, about the critical importance of early intervention in mental health, the impact of social determinants and structural racism on mental health services, and the need for psychiatrists to champion community-based solutions. She stresses the urgency of addressing the treatment gap, particularly for children and young people, and highlights the importance of a motivated workforce within the field of psychiatry.

Later, Elaine talks to Professor Bernadka Dubika about her extensive work in child and adolescent mental health, focusing on behavioural activation, the role of antidepressants, and the importance of training staff in CAMHS. She emphasises the need for a biopsychosocial approach to understanding young people's mental health challenges and the significance of fundamental clinical care in practice.