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Facing the harsh reality of feeling invisible in the healthcare system can be overwhelming, especially when battling chronic conditions. Donna returns to share her courageous journey through the maze of medical gaslighting, where her invisible illnesses were often dismissed. We unravel the staggering fact that obtaining a proper diagnosis for issues like autoimmune diseases can take nearly a decade. Learn how to empower yourself with essential strategies for advocating in medical settings, from tracking symptoms in a notepad to bringing a trusted ally to appointments. We also challenge the irony of doctors relying on Google and stress the power of self-advocacy in demanding more than just textbook answers.

The challenge of communication within the healthcare system isn’t just a personal struggle; it's a systemic issue affecting countless individuals. We reflect on the pressures medical professionals face to prioritize the number of patients over the quality of care, leading to ethical dilemmas and a sense of irrelevance among older patients. From navigating a cancer diagnosis during a pandemic to the hurdles posed by staff shortages, our conversation underscores the urgency of being a proactive health advocate. Tune in for heartfelt stories and practical tips, like refusing unnecessary procedures, to help you navigate these choppy waters with confidence.

Feelings of irrelevance extend far beyond the doctor's office. We explore how societal pressures can strain personal relationships, with unbalanced friendships and forgotten birthdays serving as poignant reminders. By sharing personal anecdotes, we emphasize the importance of genuine connections, empathy, and meaningful interaction in an age dominated by superficial social media exchanges. Through stories of disappointment and the power of kindness, we invite you to reflect on how small gestures can bridge the gap of irrelevance, fostering deeper connections in both our personal and communal lives.

Loneliness in the United States: A 2018 National Panel Survey of Demographic, Structural, Cognitive, and Behavioral Characteristics - Liana DesHarnais Bruce, Joshua S. Wu, Stuart L. Lustig, Daniel W. Russell, Douglas A. Nemecek, 2019

America has a loneliness epidemic. Here are 6 steps to address it : NPR

Marie Kondo Your Life: How To End Toxic Friendships, Bad Habits

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Political fear and cognitive dissonance take center stage as we examine the unsettling political climate most likely resulting from a national/cumulative PTSD. Discover how fear tactics shape voter behavior and the troubling disconnects between domestic and international issues. We challenge each challenge each person to confront the cognitive dissonance in supporting policies that may contradict personal values, especially in the face of global conflicts and ethical dilemmas. The conversation highlights the frustration and helplessness that lead many to turn away from the polls, while also questioning the two-party system's effectiveness in serving the American people.

In a country increasingly divided, our focus shifts to the power of individual actions and community engagement in fostering positive change. Through personal stories and insightful reflections, we emphasize the importance of bridging ideological divides with dialogue and compassion. From attending local events to small gestures of kindness, we explore how these actions contribute to a more connected, empathetic society. Thank you to our guests, Mike and Cora, for sharing their experiences and insights, and to our listeners for joining us on this journey towards understanding and unity.

Special Guest Michael Thibeault 

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What if the Halloween traditions we've come to love are rooted in ancient fears and legends? Join us as we kick off season three of "The United States of PTSD" with a thrilling exploration of Halloween's origins, tracing its journey from Celtic rituals to the influence of Irish Catholics in America. With Julia taking a break, Cora steps in, bringing her delightful stories of crafting unique Halloween costumes for her kids—imagine a Rhode Island hot wiener and a cozy shark roaming the streets! As we reminisce about the creativity of past Halloweens and the impact of COVID-19 on social gatherings, our enthusiasm for the holiday remains undiminished. Together, we plan to celebrate Halloween across different cultures, eager to embrace the spooky season in all its forms.

Ever heard of the notorious razor blade in the apple myth? We unravel its urban legend status while examining the real fears that reshaped Halloween safety in the 1970s and 1980s, spurred by the Tylenol murders and other tragedies. Our discussion highlights how societal fears often target strangers, even though most harm comes from familiar faces. Cora and I delve into infamous cases of treat tampering by family members, challenging our perception of safety in the festive season. We share childhood tales of Bloody Mary and other eerie legends, exploring the thrill they bring to the Halloween experience.

Prepare for a spine-tingling journey through fear, phobias, and the paranormal. From horror movies inspired by societal unrest to the allure of ghost tours in Mystic, Rhode Island, our conversation uncovers the excitement of encountering the supernatural. Discover stories of Mercy Brown and the vampire panic in New England, where fear led to desperate measures amidst a tuberculosis outbreak. As we reflect on these chilling narratives, we consider their impact on cultural traditions and personal fears. Join us for a captivating episode filled with history, ghostly encounters, and an undying love for the spooky season.

https://uknow.uky.edu/research/uk-folklorist-explains-spellbinding-history-halloween
University of Kentucky

UK folklorist explains the spellbinding history of Halloween
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11199-019-01105-0

The Razor Blade in the the Apple: the Social Construction of Urban Legends
Joel Best and Gerald T. Horiuchi
Social Problems, Jun. 1985, Vol. 32, No. 5, pp 488-499
Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for the Study of Social Problems
https://www.jstor.org/stable/800777

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/phobias

https://www.rihs.org/have-mercy/
Oct 31, 2016
Rhode Island Historical Society
Jennifer L. Galpern, Research Associate/Special Collections

https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/28/politics/bernie-sanders-kamala-harris-israel-gaza/index.html

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-has-undeniable-complicity-gaza-war-killings-say-former-us-officials-2024-07-03/

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Join us for a profound conversation with our special guest, Dr. Erika Lin-Hendel, who enlightens us about the intricate intersections between veterinary medicine, mental health, and advocacy for marginalized communities. Discover their heartfelt dedication to inclusivity within veterinary clinics, as they shed light on the challenges LGBTQIA and racially diverse professionals face in a predominantly white industry. We journey through Dr. Hendel's impactful work with organizations such as Pride VMC and the Multicultural Veterinary Medical Association, as well as the somber realities of suicide and pet loss, with initiatives like the VIN Foundation standing at the forefront of mental health support for vets.

The episode further unveils the pressing issue of mental health struggles in the veterinary profession, spotlighted by the efforts of Not One More Vet. This nonprofit, born from tragedy, is reshaping mental health resources for veterinarians through education and support initiatives. We explore how the solitary nature of veterinary work, especially in rural areas, contributes to mental health risks and the critical importance of community support. Matt also shares his  personal endeavors to facilitate mental health services for first responders and veterinarians, while delving into potential collaborations with the International Association of Veterinary Social Workers to tailor resources for this unique field.

Finally, we address the emotional complexities faced by veterinarians, from the challenges of cyber harassment to the ethics of euthanasia. Discover strategies for managing online negativity and the profound human-animal connections that make end-of-life decisions so poignant. Through personal insights and professional stories, we highlight the necessity of compassionate communication and the emerging role of veterinary social work. This episode is a heartfelt call to foster change and bolster support within the veterinary community.

CattleDog Publishing
Vets4Vets - VIN Foundation
About The International Association of Veterinary Social Work - International Association of Veterinary Social Work
Home | Not One More Vet
Work-related stressors and suicidal ideation: The mediating role of burnout: Journal of Workplace Behavioral Health: Vol 36, No 2

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Join Matt, Julia, and Cora as they navigate profound issues in today's episode of the United States of PTSD. They delve into the stark realities of political division, its emotional toll, and the complexities of discussing politics with your nearest and dearest. Through their candid experiences, they shed light on how political propaganda and fearmongering around issues like abortion and international conflicts manipulate public perception.

Why is it that despite countless opportunities, political leaders fail to codify critical rights, perpetuating a cycle of division and manipulation? Our hosts dissect this question, highlighting the disconnect between political action and public needs. They explore the ethical dilemmas and the selective media coverage that shapes our understanding of protests and international conflicts. By drawing on personal stories, the hosts underscore the importance of collective action and vocal opposition to influence political policies, advocating for compassion and understanding in navigating these turbulent times.

Navigating today’s political landscape can feel like standing at the controls of a runaway train, faced with impossible choices. Our final segments emphasize the power of respectful dialogue and the quest for common ground, even amongst fierce disagreements. Cora shares her journey as a parent discussing politics with her children and the heavy emotional weight it carries. We wrap up with a heartfelt thanks to our listeners, inviting them to contribute to future episodes and reminding everyone of the importance of self-care amidst our shared societal struggles. Thank you for being part of this crucial conversation.

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Picture yourself in the quiet, rural expanse of Connecticut when an unexpected visitor arrives, stirring up a series of chilling events. In our latest episode of United States of PTSD, Matt takes us through his harrowing encounter with a mysterious car in his driveway, a cryptic note, and a police investigation that uncovered connections to an alleged kidnapping. The plot thickens as the police revisit Matt with startling news, tying the incident to his own last name. Feel the anxiety and suspense as we navigate through the layers of this unsettling story, offering a stark reminder of the hidden dangers lurking in seemingly safe, quiet corners of America.

Shifting gears, we dive into the world of momfluencers with our insightful guest Cora. These social media mavens have turned motherhood into a profitable brand, but at what cost? We explore the often unrealistic ideals they promote, the blurred line between genuine advice and paid promotions, and the broader implications for society. As Cora shares her personal experiences, we touch on the rise of "wine mom" culture and how momfluencers have evolved from early bloggers to Instagram stars. This segment sheds light on the pressures they create and the potential harm their curated lives can inflict on everyday mothers.

Our conversation takes a serious turn as we discuss the exploitation of children in entertainment and on social media. From the protections afforded by the Coogan Law to the stark lack of regulations for children featured in online content, we address the critical need for legal safeguards. Hear about high-profile cases of abuse and neglect, such as Ruby Frankie's "Eight Passengers" YouTube channel, where the facade of a perfect family hid severe mistreatment. This episode underscores the importance of protecting children's rights and the ethical concerns of commodifying their lives, urging listeners to reconsider the impact of their digital footprints.

How do predators find children online? - Beau Biden Foundation
What you need to know about “sharenting” | UNICEF Parenting
15 Top Mom Influencers to Follow in 2024 (taggbox.com)
15 Mom Influencers to Follow (newmodernmom.com)
17 Black Motherhood Bloggers to Follow on Instagram (parents.com)
What are “momfluencers” and what do they say about American motherhood? | Vox
Sounds Like A Cult Podcast Series - Apple Podcasts

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Cramped airline seats and long security lines might sound like a travel nightmare, but Julia's recent trip to Scotland, Ireland, and the UK was anything but. She brings the adventure to life, sharing her awe at ancient castles and endearing Highland cows, while Matt injects humor with his witty tips on scoring a first-class upgrade on Aer Lingus. Together, they offer a candid look at the joys and challenges of international travel, blending personal anecdotes with practical advice for navigating the ups and downs of exploring new places.

Switching gears, Julia gets personal about her journey of self-care and the unexpected weight gain from healthy activities like hiking and gym workouts. This sparks a broader conversation about the toxic nature of diet culture and the societal pressures of body image. Reflecting on the harmful messages from platforms like Tumblr in the 2000s and her own childhood experiences, Julia and Matt emphasize the importance of mindfulness in how we talk about weight, especially around children. They uncover the deep-seated issues tied to diet culture, stressing the need for a more compassionate and inclusive approach to health.

Finally, the discussion broadens to tackle the gender disparity in diet-related content on social media and the flawed focus on weight in healthcare. Personal stories highlight the often misguided medical advice that overlooks other health conditions, while also touching on the unrealistic body standards perpetuated by the media and clothing industries. Julia and Matt advocate for weight inclusivity and the importance of fostering genuine connections for overall well-being. As the episode wraps up, they tease an upcoming discussion on "mom influencers" and invite listeners to share their topic suggestions and feedback, promising more engaging content ahead.

Weight-normative messaging predominates on TikTok—A qualitative content analysis

Marisa Minadeo ,Lizzy Pope . Published: November 1, 2022, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0267997

A Third of TikTok’s U.S. Users May Be 14 or Under, Raising Safety Questions - The New York Times (nytimes.com)
https://www.killingussoftly4.org/
Second-hand Television Exposure Linked to Eating Disorders | Harvard Medical School
Fijian girls succumb to Western dysmorphia — Harvard Gazette
#voteoutJoeCourtney 

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Please welcome Patrick Jones, also known as Mr.JonesX. With his expertise in diversity, inclusion, and human rights advocacy, Patrick actively engages over 400,000 fans, including a significant LGBTQ+ community, through his thought-provoking content.

As a TikTok influencer and public speaker, Patrick addresses the same themes you've explored - the rise of hate, political divisiveness, and mental health challenges. His insights add a power layer to our conversations. 

What if the educational system we've trusted for so long is actually stifling our children's potential? Patrick Jones, also known as Mr. Jones X on TikTok, joins us to illuminate his powerful journey from an aspiring pharmacist to a finance director and passionate social justice advocate. Through his recounting of a shocking kindergarten incident of racial discrimination, Patrick shares how his early experiences shaped his unyielding commitment to equality and his unique perspective on society, bolstered by his sociology studies and his ability to retain vast amounts of information.



Our discussion takes a poignant turn as we examine the systemic issues within law enforcement, spotlighting the tragic case of Sonia Massey and the broader implications of police responses to mental health crises. Patrick and I critique the glorification of toxic power dynamics and explore the disturbing parallels between law enforcement misconduct and military sexual assault. By interweaving local, state, and federal political engagement, we underscore the importance of informed voting and collective action to drive meaningful change. Wrapping up with a reflection on the role of comedy and social media in addressing societal issues, we challenge listeners to step out of their comfort zones and advocate for a just society.

Also remember that it is okay to take a break to care for yourself.  Cora reminded me of this right after the episode ended.

Special Thank you to Cora Lee Kennedy for her fill in hosting.  She has joined on as a volunteer research assistant and is 100% amazing. 

90 state lawmakers accused of sexual misconduct since 2017 | AP News
Quick Facts on Sexual Abuse Offenses (ussc.gov)
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/illinois-sheriffs-deputy-charged-with-murder-shot-black-woman-in-face-after-she-called-police-for-help. Melissa Perez Winder, Associated Press, Ed White, Associated Press, John O'Connor, Associated Press
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/body-cam-video-shows-illinois-deputy-fatally-shooting-sonya-massey
https://newschannel20.com/news/local/multiple-911-calls-made-before-sonya-massey-was-fatally-shot-by-deputy

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Julia and Matt talk about what NPD is and how it is different from the rise of cultural narcissism.  At what point does being self-centered turn into a personality disorder.  Matt and Julia talk about some tips when dealing with someone who you think may have NPD.  

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Thanks to a listener request Julia and Matt talk about the dating app culture and how it has devolved since Covid.  As people are feeling more and more disconnected from each other it would seem the fix for this would be to build more communities and connections.  

We need to talk about how Grindr is affecting gay men’s mental health - Vox

Opinion | Dating Apps Like Hinge, Tinder and Bumble Are Getting Worse - The New York Times (nytimes.com)

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Please feel free to email Matt topics or suggestions, questions or feedback.
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