The Royal College of Psychiatrists Podcast

In this final part of our joint CAP and GAP conference specials which follows on from a session on climate change, nature, and sustainability in mental health; Dr Matthew Leahy discusses nature-based approaches for children’s mental health with Dr Katherine Kennet, who is a consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist with a keen interest in social prescribing.

In this podcast we speak to four psychiatrists who have taken a break from work for a range of reasons, and hear their thoughts about what needs to change to help our members thrive. We also hear about the SuppoRTT scheme running in England, to help resident doctors who take a break.

In the third of our series of podcasts exploring ways in which we can help members to thrive in psychiatry, we hear from four SAS doctors by choice. Dr Noni Kamau, Dr Abdul Oredola, Dr Jessi Kakani and Dr Becky Thomlinson discuss why they love their role, why it works for them, and what's changed for SAS doctors recently.

They also talk about what more can be done to support SAS doctors to help them flourish in their careers.

In this special episode of Children’s Mental Health: Listen Up!, we take you inside a groundbreaking joint conference that brought together child and adolescent psychiatrists, adult psychiatrists, resident doctors and experts to tackle one of the most important challenges in mental health: supporting young people through mental health service transitions. Hear from organisers and participants as they share insights on collaborative care. 75% of severe mental health conditions start before the age of 25 years which gives significant impetus to this collaborative work.

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/