Ep14: Depressed After the Holidays? Let the Schwartz Be With You (Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz Interview)

The impact of the pandemic on the mental health of all Americans can’t be overstated. Anxiety depression and suicides are at record levels, with disproportionate impact on the young and elderly, who struggle with isolation, fear and loneliness. A recent N. Y. Times article in December of 2021, cited a survey of 1320 Therapists. 9 out of 10 reported that they are being overwhelmed with clients seeking help, many for the first time over anxiety, financial stress and other issues, and that they fear the problem is getting much worse.

The solution to anxiety or depression is not one dimensional, but many professionals seek a reductionist answer focusing on a “one size fits all” answer or response to the problem. For a wonderful overview of multiple factors that can impact mental health and anxiety, I recommend a podcast by Timothy Keller called the Wounded Spirit.

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/timothy-keller-sermons-podcast-by-gospel-in-life/id352660924?i=1000543352798

Of course anyone suffering from anxiety or depression should seek professional help and this podcast is not offering medical advice. Everyone must examine all options available when addressing anxiety or depression.

In 2019 I read a book called You are not Your Brain by Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz. I found the central concept of the book fascinating: In essence much like wearing in a path in the ground by repeatedly walking over the same turf over and over again you can repeatedly wear grooves into your own brain by repeated negative messaging. Your brain, a passive organ, then broadcasts these negative messages back to you whether you want to hear them or not: I call them “Bad Brain messages” that can lead to anxiety and stress.

Listen, as I interview Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz, as he discusses his Book, You are not your Brain, and how you can help turn off Bad Brain messages and use the concept of neuroplasticity as one tool to deal with anxiety and stress.

Disclaimer: None of the legal, or financial opinions or information expressed in this podcast may be relied on as legal, or investment advice by Scheer Law Group, LLP. Laws and economic issues affecting the subjects of this podcast change daily. This mandates specific review of legal or economic issues of interest or concern to you with legal counsel or financial advisors who are experienced in the areas of law or finance discussed in this podcast.

For more on Scheer Law Group, LLP, go to www.scheerlawgroup.com