In this episode of the Whole Minded podcast, we hear from Ansleigh Mikesell, a Whole Mind employee who usually works behind the scenes in marketing. Ansleigh shares her deeply personal experiences with grief, particularly focusing on the recent loss of her youngest brother to suicide. The episode coincides with International Survivor of Suicide Loss Day and dives into the complexities of grieving a loved one who chose to take their own life. Ansleigh contrasts this with other types of bereavement she has faced, including the sudden death of her older brother from a rare medical condition and the loss of grandparents and a close friend. The conversation explores the painful realities of coping with such a loss, the questions and mix of feelings that arise, and the importance of discussing mental health openly. Ansleigh also sheds light on practical ways to support those grieving, emphasizing that grief is unique and non-linear, and highlights the significance of ongoing conversations about mental health, suicide prevention, and available resources.

In this special Veterans Day episode of the Whole Minded podcast, we welcome Randall Mendoza, a sergeant in the Utah Army National Guard and a TMS technician at Whole Mind. The episode focuses on mental health issues faced by veterans and active military personnel. Randall shares his background, including his service history and his decision to join the National Guard at 33. He shares the positive changes and sense of purpose the military provided him, and also discusses the stress, anxiety, and depression that service members often experience. Randall emphasizes the importance of seeking mental health support, sharing his own experience with military family life counselors, which led him to continue therapy in his civilian life. We also discuss TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), a treatment offered at Whole Mind for depression, especially treatment-resistant depression. Randall explains how TMS works, its benefits, and offers a success story of a patient's significant improvement. The episode closes with a strong message encouraging military personnel and veterans to seek help and support for their mental health challenges.

In this episode, host Gavin Feller interviews Dr. Tom Rayner about ADHD, depression, and their treatments. The episode discusses how regular exercise can be effective in treating depression, similar to antidepressants. Dr. Rainer explains ADHD, its symptoms, and how they can be chronically misunderstood, particularly how individuals can internalize negative feedback and criticism, which can lead to depression. 
The discussion delves into the importance of a multi-faceted approach involving medication and behavioral interventions, explaining how stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin work by targeting the frontal lobe. They discuss the challenges in diagnosing ADHD in adults, the importance of comprehensive assessments, and the evolving understanding of gender differences in ADHD presentation. The conversation reviews the personal story of Elise, a mother dealing with ADHD and depression, illustrating how proper diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference. The episode encourages listeners to seek professional help and underscores the importance of patience and systematic efforts in managing ADHD.

This episode details Elise's journey with postpartum depression and ADHD. Elise, an overachiever, faces postpartum depression after her second child, which leads to overwhelming confusion and difficulty managing life's demands. An unplanned third pregnancy further complicates her situation. Over time, Elise makes significant life adjustments and seeks holistic and medical treatments. She experiences a gradual recovery marked by moments of joy and clarity. After experiencing severe burnout in 2023, Elise is diagnosed with ADHD. With medication and newfound understanding, she begins to reclaim her life, recognizing the interconnectedness of her symptoms. Elise's story emphasizes the importance of acceptance and proactive mental health management, as she shares her experiences to help others feel less alone.

In this episode of 'Whole Minded,' Gavin interviews Tom Rayner about the complexities of bipolar disorder. Their discussion covers the challenges of diagnosing the disorder, the importance of understanding the patient beyond the illness, and the different available treatments. Using the personal story of Francis, who has bipolar disorder, Gavin and Tom explore the emotional and practical impacts of the condition on both the patient and their loved ones. The episode also addresses common misconceptions, the role of medications, and emerging technologies that could improve diagnosis and treatment. Key takeaways include the importance of social rhythms, ongoing patient communication, and accountability in managing bipolar. 

00:00 Introduction to Bipolar Disorder

00:58 Interview with Tom Rainer

01:40 Understanding Bipolar Diagnosis

04:11 Myths and Misconceptions about Bipolar Disorder

06:39 Defining Bipolar Disorder

17:06 Causes and Triggers of Bipolar Disorder

21:12 Treatments and Medications for Bipolar Disorder

33:37 Challenges in Psychiatry and Final Thoughts

Francis has bipolar disorder, but the condition doesn't define him. Listen to Francis share how he's navigated the challenges of living with bipolar, from work to sleep to relationships. 

Dr. Tom Rayner and I discuss Tammy's battle with schizophrenia and panic disorder. We explore several questions about the causes and treatments of schizophrenia and panic disorder, including medications and holistic approaches. 

Tammy tells the story of her sudden onset of schizophrenia, including her initial refusal to take medications and the process of being admitted to the state hospital against her will. Tammy also describes how she manages panic disorder and the impact her mental health has on her family life. 

Dr. Tom Rayner and I review Melissa's experiences with PTSD, exploring several questions, including: What makes an experience traumatic for one person and not traumatic for another? What's happening in the brain and the body during trauma? What treatment options are most effective for PTSD? How can loved ones help those suffering from PTSD? And other important questions. 
Dr. Rayner discusses a holistic approach that includes exposure therapy, medication, and social connection among other things. 
The goal of the episode is to promote greater empathy and understanding for all people struggling with mental health challenges. 

Melissa opens up about a series of traumatic experiences that led to her developing PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). She talks about the impact it's had on her life, where she is now, and her goals for the future. Melissa's advice for others to be kinder and more understanding is powerful and needed. 
This episode can help those struggling with PTSD, anxiety, psychosis, and related mental health issues; as well as family, friends, and professional providers.