The Depression Files

Al Interviews Victor Janzan | A Telecommunications Project Manager and Mental Illness Activist

In this episode, Al interviews Victor Janzen, a telecommunications project manager and mental illness activist (recorded 8-11-21). Victor speaks very candidly about the ongoing childhood trauma that he endured at the hands of his family members.

Victor was eventually diagnosed with severe complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD), borderline personality disorder (BPD), and dissociative identity disorder (DID), previously known as multiple personality disorder. 

Victor has at least twenty different alters, some threatening and violent to himself. Victor has attempted suicide five times and been hospitalized many times. He typically calls a crisis line on a daily basis. Victor also believes his previous therapist and CMHA have "weaponized" his diagnoses against him, with CMHA going as far as banning him from using their crisis line.

Victor now speaks publicly about the challenges he has faced and is advocating for changes to the mental health system. You can find, and connect with, Victor on Twitter @victorjanzen

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18. Lastly, please subscribe to the show and take just a minute to leave a review and rating.

Al Interviews Sarah Hancock | Former Professor of Clinical Psychiatric Rehabilitation Counseling at San Diego State University & a Nationally Certified Rehabilitation Counselor on the topic of ECT

In this episode, Al interviews Sarah Hancock, former professor of clinical psychiatric rehabilitation counseling at San Diego State University and a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor, on the topic of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) (recorded 7-1-21).

Sarah received 17 years of treatment consisting of thirty-seven combinations of more than five medication classifications, 116 ECT treatments, multiple hospitalizations, and was institutionalized for thirteen months...all for a misdiagnosed mental illness that was determined to actually be fungal hepatic encephalopathy.

Sarah now advocates for more regulations, safety testing, electrical dosing standards, injury assessment, and fully informed consent regarding ECT. Listen as we discuss possible consequences to receiving ECT, the limited training most psychiatrists receive in administering ECT,  the lack of proper assessment of possible negative consequences of patients receiving ECT, the research around ECT, and much more.

To learn more about Sarah and ECT, check out her personal website at PsychRecoveryAndRehab.com, or LifeAfterECT.com, which is an educational resource created by a coalition of advocates concerned with ECT. You'll also find Sarah tweeting @PsychRecovery.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18. Lastly, please subscribe to the show and take just a minute to leave a review and rating.

Al Interviews Dr. Joyce Baptist | Professor in the Couple and Family Therapy Program at Kansas State University, on the topic of Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy

In this episode, Al interviews Dr. Joyce Baptist, a professor in the Couple and Family Therapy Program at Kansas State University, on the topic of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy (recorded 6-7-21).

Dr. Baptist's current work focuses on examining the efficacy of clinical interventions to mitigate suffering from traumatic childhood events using EMDR. Dr. Baptist describes EMDR and shares how a therapist uses EMDR to work with their clients.

Although EMDR is typically thought of as a therapy that is used for patients with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Dr. Baptist has conducted some very promising research on the use of EMDR for the treatment of depression.

Learn more about Dr. Baptist by visiting her page on the Kansas State University website. You can learn more about EMDR by visiting the EMDR International Association website.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles.

You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month! In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18. Lastly, please subscribe to the show and take just a minute to leave a review and rating.  

Al Interviews Dr. Damon Ashworth | Clinical Psychologist and Sleep Expert, on the Topic of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i)

In this episode, Al interviews Dr. Damon Ashworth, clinical psychologist and expert in the field of sleep and treatments for insomnia, on the topic of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-i) (recorded 4-29-21).

Dr. Ashworth helps listeners understand the definition of CBT-i and insomnia. He shares the critical elements of CBT-i and explains what one could expect if going to a therapist to receive this type of treatment. He also describes his randomized clinical trail that significantly reduced insomnia AND depression severity of participants across only four sessions of CBT-i.

You can learn more about Dr. Ashworth by checking out his website at damonashworthpsychology.com. Questions about CBT-i, sleep, or psychology? Feel free to email him at damon.ashworth@gmail.com.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18. Lastly, please subscribe to the show and take just a minute to leave a review and rating.

Al Interviews Sam Morris | Founder of The Unbreakable Human Collective & Managing Director - Head of Culture at Five to Flow

In this episode, Al interviews Sam Morris, founder of The Unbreakable Human Collective and Managing Director - Head of Culture at Five to Flow (recorded 11-2-21). Sam was always dedicated to tennis. This allowed him to have an excuse to avoid high school and college parties that caused him great social anxiety. An off-season ACL tear gave Sam his longest break from tennis in the previous fifteen years.

A break from tennis gave Sam a glimpse of life without the demands of being a high-level athlete. This also created time for Sam to explore more of a social life. However, he realized that alcohol helped relieve his social anxiety. Years of partying, drinking, and doing coke led to four DUIs, jail time, and multiple stints in rehab.

Hear these stories and how Sam finally was able to turn his life around. He is now on a personal mission to impact one billion humans. Through retreats, workshops, and coaching, Sam helps men fight toxic masculinity and talk feelings!

You can learn more about Sam at themanunbreakable.com. You'll also find Sam on Instagram @samgibbsmorris and on LinkedIn at Sam Morris.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18. Lastly, please subscribe to the show and take just a minute to leave a review and rating.

Al Interviews Dr. Rick Doblin, Founder of MAPS, on the Topic of MDMA (Ecstasy) Research for the Treatment of PTSD

In this interview, Al interviews Dr. Rick Doblin, founder and executive director of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), on the topic of MDMA research for the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Rick shares some incredibly personal stories related to how he became involved and interested in psychedelics, including the story of a college counselor who shared a book with him in order to improve his psychedelic "trips".

Hear how MAPS was able to receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Breakthrough Therapy Designation for MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD in 2017 and much, much more!

Check out maps.org if you would like to find out more information about MAPS, their psychedelic research, and Rick Doblin.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18. Lastly, please subscribe to the show and take just a minute to leave a review and rating.

Al Interviews Theodora Blanchfield on Receiving Ketamine Infusions

In this episode, Al interviews Theodora Blanchfield on the topic of receiving ketamine infusions (recorded 8-10-21). For the past five years or so, Theodora had been struggling with severe depression. In that time, she was hospitalized twice for suicidal ideation and spent six weeks at an in-patient program.

Her therapist then suggested ketamine. After a great deal of research, Theodora decided to give it a shot. She describes her first session in great detail and the immediate, positive impact it had on her. After an initial schedule of eight infusions in a two-week period, Theodora occasionally goes back for a 'bump'.

Theodora is a social media consultant, a writer, and a running coach. Check out some of her incredible writing and learn more about her at theodorablanchfield.com or at preppyrunner.com.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Dr. Natalie Gukasyan of Johns Hopkins University on the topic of Psychedelics and the Treatment of Mental Illness

In this episode, Al interviews Dr. Gukasyan, psychiatrist and post-doctoral research fellow at Johns Hopkins University, on the topic of psychedelics and the treatment of mental illness.

Dr. Gukasyan describes the current research that is ongoing at Johns Hopkins. Hear about the history of psychedelics and the ins and outs regarding the structure of the research. You'll hear about the guides, the importance of set and setting, and much more.

Given that research regarding antidepressants is at a near standstill and the challenges of finding the right antidepressant, psychedelics are looking like a very viable possibility for treating depression with much quicker efficacy.

If you'd like to learn more about the research at Johns Hopkins, you can visit their psychedelic research page at hopkinspsychedelic.org. In addition to the Johns Hopkins website, if you're interested in learning about the possibilities of participating in their research, you can visit their partners' websites; Usona Institute and COMPASS.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Dr. Nolan Williams on the topic of Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy (SAINT) - an Enhanced Version of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

In this episode, Al interviews Dr. Nolan Williams, assistant professor within the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and the director of the Stanford Brain Stimulation Lab (recorded 11-20-20). Dr. Williams has a broad background in neuropsychiatry and is double board certified in both neurology and psychiatry.

Dr. Williams describes what Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is and how it works. He goes on to describe the very recent research he is leading at Stanford University titled, "Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy (SAINT)". This enhanced version of TMS has been shown to be five times more potent than traditional TMS. More potent stimulation means patients can be stimulated for less time, meaning more sessions could be administered per day, potentially resulting in much faster antidepressant responses.

You can find out more about Dr. Nolan Williams here. You'll also find him tweeting @NolanRyWilliams. You can find out more about Stanford's Brain Stimulation Lab and SAINT here.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Dr. Robb Kelly | World-Renown Addiction Specialist & CEO and Founder of Robb Kelly Recovery Group

In this episode, Al interviews world-renown addiction specialist and CEO/Founder of Robb Kelly Recovery Group (recorded 10-7-20). Dr. Kelly candidly shares his tragic story of what drinking did to his life. Dr. Kelly had a love and talent for music at a very young age. He was playing gigs with his uncle on stage at the age of nine. It was between sets at one of these gigs that his uncle gave him his first beer.

Dr. Kelly describes how, as a functioning alcoholic, he was able to enter the University of Oxford and work at the notorious Abbey Roads Studio as a session bass player in order to help fund his education. Hear how alcohol got him kicked out of one of the university's colleges and how he lost his first job for drinking on the job.

He shares how he finally had a job (still drinking daily), acquired a great amount of wealth, got married and had two children. However, none of this without bumps in the road. A violent assault on his wife wasn't enough to get him to stop drinking. Dr. Kelly describes how he lost everything and ended up homeless on the streets of Manchester.

Hear how Dr. Kelly finally was able to get the help he needed, follow the program, and become healthy. He goes on to share about the incredible work he is doing as the founder and CEO of Robb Kelly Recovery Group.

You can learn more about Dr. Kelly by visiting robbkelly.com. You'll also find him on Facebook @robbkellyrecoverygroup and on Twitter @RobbKellyGroup.

Note: Listen to this episode for a very personal offer from Dr. Kelly to any/all listeners of The Depression Files!

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Dr. Sam Ko on the Topic of Ketamine

In this episode, Al interviews Dr. Sam Ko, Board Certified Emergency Physician and Medical Director of Reset Ketamine, on the topic of Ketamine (recorded 7-9-20). Dr. Ko talks about his own challenges of working as an emergency room doctor for just over two years and having reached a point of burn out.

After spending time traveling the world, studying yoga and meditation, and taking leadership courses, Dr. Ko was able to become rejuvenated and ponder the question, "What is something unique that I can do and offer to the world?". The insight that he came to was working with Ketamine.

Dr. Ko shares the history of Ketamine, as well as the typical and off-label uses of Ketamine. He describes the types of mental illnesses and other ailments for which he treats his patients with Ketamine. He then walks the listeners through the four stages of treatment that he uses in order to provide Ketamine infusion treatment.

You can find out much more about Dr. Ko and Reset Ketamine by going to resetketamine.com. The Depression Files podcast listeners can find an additional free Preparation and Integration Guide by going to resetketamine.com/thedepressionfiles. You'll also find Dr. Ko on Twitter @resetketamine, on Instragram @resetketamine, and on Facebook @resetketamine.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Mindy Greiling | Former MN State Representative, Former National NAMI Board Member & Author

In this episode, Al interviews Mindy Greiling, former Minnesota State Representative, Former National NAMI Board Member and author of Fix What You Can: Schizophrenia and a Law Maker's Fight for Her Son (recorded 8-19-20). A former teacher and school board member, Mindy first joined the Minnesota House of Representatives with her eye on education. After six years in the legislature, her son, Jim, was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. While continuing her work within the education committee, Mindy decided to also focus on mental health.

Hear Mindy's story of navigating through the complex mental health system, her attempts at improving it, and the challenges of caring for a loved one with schizophrenia in her new book Fix What You Can: Schizophrenia and a Lawmaker's Fight for Her Son.

Her book will be released on October 6, 2020 and there will be a virtual launch on October 8, 2020. Find out more about Mindy and where to get her book at mindygreiling.org.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

An Announcement - Changes Coming to The Depression Files

Today, September 3, World Suicide Prevention Day, marks three years to the day that the Depression Files podcast has been up and running. Every other week I’ve published a man’s lived experience with depression and/or other mental illnesses. In addition, I’ve published several BONUS episodes in between episodes in which we’ve had a guest and taken a deep dive into a topic such as bipolar disorder or suicide.

Today, on the third anniversary of the show, I’d like to announce a few changes that will allow me to have time to continue my advocacy in other ways. I’m excited that I was recently appointed by the governor to the MN State Advisory Council on Mental Illness. I’d also like to continue to grow my blog and speak publicly on the topic of mental health.

For these reasons, I plan to publish one show every month. I will continue to have a guest on every show. I’ll include a mix of stories of men living with a mental illness and episodes that explore a specific topic related to mental health.

I want to thank those of you who have been supporting me by listening to the show, sharing the show whether on Twitter or on other social media platforms or even word of mouth. I also want to thank those of you who have been supporting me monetarily through my Patreon page and those of you who have taken the time to rate and review the show. These acts of kindness really go a long ways.

Finally, if you have thoughts on a topic related to mental health that you’d like to hear on the show, or if you’d just like to connect with me, please email me at TheDepressionFiles@gmail.com.

Al Interviews Josh Knutti | Host of the Overcoming You Podcast

In this episode, Al interviews Josh Knutti, host of the Overcoming You podcast (recorded 7-1-20). Josh worked his way up the corporate ladder and was managing a $580 million, 22K associates company that operated in several countries. But it was never enough for Josh. Wanting more, he left his job and planned to purchase his own company. This major deal fell through at the last possible moment, leaving Josh broke and with nothing.

Josh describes the debilitating depression he experienced for a year and a half that culminated in a motel room with cocaine, weed, and a shotgun.

Josh also shares his path to recovery. He describes the Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatments and talks about meditation, therapy and medication.

Finally, Josh talks about his podcast, Overcoming You. If you'd like to learn more about Josh, you'll find him on Instagram @overcomingu and on Facebook.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews James Withey | Former Therapist, Mental Health Advocate, Public Speaker & Author

In this episode, Al interviews James Withey, former therapist, mental health advocate, public speaker, and author (recorded 6-18-20). James shares the challenges of losing his father at age five and knowing he was gay at the young age of eleven or twelve, yet keeping those feelings hidden until age eighteen.

James very candidly describes his battle with anxiety, panic attacks, anorexia and depression. Multiple suicide attempts and hospitalizations, James still has a safety plan in place that includes a daily check-in with his husband.

James is the co-creator and editor of The Recovery Letters: Addressed to People Experiencing Depression. He is also the author of How to Tell Depression to Piss Off: 40 Ways to Get Your Life Back. You can find out more about The Recovery Letters project and read letters that may not be included in his book at therecoveryletters.com. You can find out more about James on his website at jameswithey.com. Finally, you'll find James tweeting @jameswwithey and @RecoveryLetters.

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

BONUS Episode - Al Interviews Dr. Peter Gutierrez on the Topic of Suicide

This is a Bonus Episode in which Al interviews an expert or guest on a particular topic related to mental health. In this episode, Al interviews Dr. Peter Gutierrez on the topic of suicide (recorded 6-24-20).

Al and Dr. Gutierrez discuss a wide range of topics around suicide; data, impulsivity, Ketamine, therapy groups and much more!

Dr. Gutierrez is a clinical research psychologist focused on the topic of suicide prevention. He currently works for LivingWorks as a research suicidologist.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to rate and review the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Matthew Williams | Author, Public Speaker & Project Worker for the Middlesbrough and Stockton Mind Charity

In this interview, Al interviews Matthew Williams, author, public speaker, and project worker for the Middlesbrough and Stockton Mind Charity. Matthew describes three major bouts of depression that he has dealt with in his lifetime.

Matthew speaks of taking mental health leaves from work, his fear of starting medications, his recovery, and his passion for doing work that supports others.

Matthew is the author of, Something Changed: Stumbling Through Divorce, Dating, and Depression and A Familiar Stranger.

You can find out much more about Matthew, read his blog, and find out how to book him for a speaking event on his website www.afamiliarstranger.co.uk.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to rate and review the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Evan Whitehead | Director of Special Services, National Consultant & Public Speaker

In this episode, Al interviews Evan Whitehead, director of special services, national consultant, and public speaker (recorded 4-8-20). Growing up with a father who was unpredictable due to substance abuse, Evan experienced trauma as a child. At times, the power and phones at their home would be shut off and the family moved a number of times throughout his childhood.

Evan experienced his first bout of depression when he left home for college and started playing DI football. In high school, Evan had been a standout football player. As a freshman playing DI, this was no longer the case. This, along with living across the country from his family, was too much to handle. Evan found himself turning to alcohol and weed in order to cope. By the end of his freshman year, he had lost the care of school and football and experienced suicidal ideations for the first time.

Evan's second bout of depression came as a new father. He gave so much care for his newborn and others, that he neglected his own care. He continued self-medicating and finally realized he needed support for himself. He entered a dual diagnosis program to deal with his substance abuse and mental health.

Evan shares the challenges of mental health in the black community and, more specifically, around the generational trauma that often prevents African Americans from reaching out for the help they may need. In addition, Evan shares his passion of supporting educators and their mental health.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to rate and review the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

BONUS Episode - Al Interviews Michael Pipich LMFT on the Topic of Bipolar Disorder

This is a Bonus Episode in which Al interviews an expert or guest on a particular topic related to mental health. In this episode, Al interviews Michael Pipich LMFT on the topic of bipolar disorder (recorded 6-16-20). Michael describes the differences between various types of bipolar disorder and the importance of a holistic approach to treating one with this mental illness. Michael shares various treatment options, describes some of the medications, and explains the importance of having family and/or loved ones involved in supporting the patient.

You can find out much more about Michael on his website, michaelpipich.com. With its three-phase approach, Michael's book, Owning Bipolar: How Patients and Families Can Take Control of Bipolar Disorder can help you and your loved ones become experts at an illness that has called the shots in your life for too long.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to rate and review the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Jon Harper | Assistant Principal, Author, Podcaster & Public Speaker

In this episode, Al interviews Jon Harper, assistant principal, author, podcaster, and public speaker (recorded 4-1-20). Jon and Al, both assistance principals, discuss the importance of supporting educators with their own mental health. Jon talks about the importance of vulnerability as a leader and the importance of self-care. Jon also shares the story of his own "breakdown" due to a continued rise in the level of anxiety he was dealing with eight years ago.

Jon wrote an article titled, "5 Strategies for Teacher Self-Care", that was recently published in ASCD Express. Jon is the author of "My Bad: 24 Educators Who Messed Up Fessed Up and Grew!". Jon was the host of the podcast, "My Bad" that ran from April 2016 - September 2019. He is currently co-hosting the podcast, "Teachers Aid", which aims to provide social and emotional support for the very personal challenges teachers face. You can find out more about Jon on his website at jonharper.blog and follow him on Twitter @Jonharper70bd.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to rate and review the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews John Arenburg | Addictions Counselor, Former Long-Term Care Worker, Volunteer Firefighter, Author & Mental Health Advocate

In this episode, Al interviews John Arenburg, addictions counselor, former longer-term care worker, volunteer firefighter, author, and mental health advocate (recorded 3-30-20). John struggled in school from a young age, acting out and smashing things and often finding himself in the principal's office. He began to see a social worker at the age of eleven or so, yet his behaviors peaked in middle school.

John became a volunteer firefighter while still in high school and a full-active member at the age of nineteen. Soon after becoming a full-active member, John found himself facing his first fatality at the horrific scene of a mini barn fire. John describes several other life events that contributed to his eventual diagnoses of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder, and generalized anxiety.

John is close to publishing his first book, "The Road to Mental Wellness". Find out more about John's book and how you can support him through a GoFundMe page. Find out more about John and check out more if his writing at his website, theroadtomentalwellness.com. You'll also find John on Twitter @ArenburgJohn and Facebook at The Road to Mental Wellness @TRTMW.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to rate and review the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Brett Stevens | Start-Up Consultant, Former Professional Poker Player & Author

In this episode, Al interviews Brett Stevens, start-up consultant, former professional Poker Player, and author (recorded 3-26-20). Brett had no signs of any type of mental illness until the age of nineteen when he had his first manic episode. Brett takes us through his three manic episodes, all of which began with seven days of paranoia, delusions, and hallucinations. Each of which landed him in a psychiatric hospital inpatient program. Each impacting his life for approximately eighteen months. It wasn't until his third inpatient hospitalization that he was given a diagnosis of bipolar I disorder.

Brett shares his story in a memoir titled, Crossover: A Look Inside a Manic Mind. Having a rare condition called hypermnesia, which allows Brett to recall memories in vivid and precise details, coupled with his talented writing style makes this book a real page-turner.

You can learn more about Brett on his website insideamanicmind.com. You'll also find him on Twitter @crossover_book, Facebook at Crossover A Look Inside A Manic Mind, Linked in at Brett Stevens, and on Instagram at Crossover_Book.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to rate and review the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Jordan Brown | Mental Health Advocate, Trained Social Worker & Author

In this episode, Al interviews Jordan Brown, mental health advocate, trained social worker, and author (recorded 4-6-20). Although Jordan has experienced anxiety since childhood, it wasn't until 2012, after open heart surgery, that he experienced depression. Jordan describes his path to recovery, including a six-day inpatient hospitalization.

As a trained social worker with experience in the mental health field, Jordan shares some incredible insights. Combining his love of writing and his passion around advocating in support of others, Jordan began a blog. The blog eventually led to a daily newsletter titled, The Mental Health Update. Jordan will now be releasing his first book, titled, In Search of Happiness, Thursday, June 4, 2020! This mental health poetry book, that also includes three short essays, takes the reader along a journey through anxiety, societal pressure, and stigma to a place of finding healing and, eventually, a frontier of new meaning. The book will be available for purchase on Amazon in both e-book and paperback formats. Contact Jordan directly at jordan@thementalhealthupdate.com for more information.

You can find out more about Jordan, and other details on the release of his book, on his website, also titled, The Mental Health Update.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to rate and review the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Jon Middleton | Former Cardiac Nurse & Teacher of Health and Social Care

In this episode, Al interviews Jon Middleton, former cardiac nurse and teacher of health and social care (recorded 3-18-20). Jon shares his story of growing up with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression. Jon's first diagnosis of depression came at age nineteen or twenty after three tragic deaths of people who were close to him in the short span of two weeks, while dealing with the stress of nursing school. Jon describes several episodes of depression he has had to work through, the impact of stress at work, and the support he received. He also shares what brought him to a two-week in-patient stay at a psychiatric hospital just eighteen months prior to this interview.

Jon called in to a radio show in which people were calling in to describe a personal battle they had recently dealt with. While some called in about work struggles, car troubles, and the such, Jon called in to share his battle with mental illness. The show was so impressed, they invited Jon in for an hour and a half live interview the following day!

After the show and hearing how impactful it had been on people by sharing his story, Jon now uses his Twitter account in order to advocate on the topic of mental health. He hopes to bring awareness to the stigma and encourage others to open up. You can find him on Twitter @Men_Tell_Health.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.

Al Interviews Sean Blackwell | Researcher and Teacher of the Spiritual Dimension and Healing Potential of Bipolar Disorder & Author

In this episode, Al interviews Sean Blackwell, researcher and teacher of the spiritual dimension and healing potential of bipolar disorder and author (recorded 3-4-20). Sean shares the path that led him to depression, as well as the many synchronicities that led him to a Landmark Forum conference in which he experienced his first and only psychotic episode. Sean describes this episode, which he refers to as a "Mystical experience", along with his four-day stay at a psychiatric hospital.

Hear about the fascinating work that Sean now does as he works with those who are medicated and diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (and other related disorders) work through the subconscious, bio-energetic material which is at the root of their disorder. He utilizes what he calls, Bipolar Breathwork, which is rooted in Holotropic Breathwork.

Learn more about Sean and his work on his website, Bipolar Awakenings. You can find his book, Am I Bipolar or Waking Up here.

If you enjoyed this episode, please click the 'like' button. Also, please take a moment to comment and rate the show on iTunes. Finally, don't miss an episode! Click the subscribe/follow button now!

If you have listened and feel that you have received some value from the podcast, please consider supporting the show by becoming a Patron at patreon.com/thedepressionfiles. You can begin to support the show with as little as $1.00/month!

In addition to The Depression Files podcast, you can find Al's blog at TheDepressionFiles.com. There, you can also find out how to work with Al as a coach or schedule him for a public speaking event. You will also find Al on Twitter @allevin18.