In this episode of PD², host Chris Young engages in a candid conversation with Daniel, who shares his life experiences and struggles with mental health, particularly focusing on his diagnosis of personality disorder. Daniel reflects on his upbringing, the impact of losing family members, and the challenges he faced in navigating mental health services. He discusses the frustrations of being passed from one service to another without receiving adequate help, emphasising the need for a more compassionate and understanding approach to mental health care. Daniel's journey through the criminal justice system and his experiences in prison highlight the systemic issues surrounding mental health treatment, particularly for those labelled with personality disorders.

Throughout the conversation, Daniel articulates the importance of personal responsibility in seeking help and the value of community support. He shares insights on how his experiences have shaped his understanding of mental health and the necessity of addressing trauma at its roots. The discussion culminates in a call for a reformed mental health system that prioritises genuine care and understanding, rather than mere containment. Daniel's story serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of mental health and the need for empathy in addressing these issues.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Daniel's Story

01:25 Understanding Personality Disorders

03:53 Navigating Mental Health Services

07:33 Experiences in Prison

12:28 The Impact of Trauma

19:07 The Role of Family and Relationships

24:21 The Importance of Community Support

32:13 Seeking Help and Personal Responsibility

35:13 The Need for Mental Health Reform

42:59 Confronting Societal Issues

50:19 Reflections on Life and Growth

59:34 The Power of Group Therapy

01:05:51 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

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In this episode of PD², Chris engages in a candid conversation with Kevin, who shares his journey from being homeless in London to navigating life with a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder. Kevin recounts his challenging upbringing in Liverpool, the struggles he faced after being thrown out by his parents, and his initial experiences in London, where he found temporary refuge with a friend's family. As the discussion unfolds, Kevin reflects on the feelings of alienation he experienced throughout his life, particularly in relation to his mental health struggles and the prejudice associated with his diagnosis. He emphasises the importance of understanding and compassion in mental health care, highlighting the prejudices he has faced from medical professionals and society at large.

The conversation delves into the complexities of labelling mental health conditions, with Kevin advocating for a shift in terminology from 'disorder' to terms that reflect trauma and personal experiences. He shares anecdotes illustrating the misunderstandings and biases he has encountered, particularly in healthcare settings, and the impact these experiences have had on his sense of self-worth and belonging. Ultimately, Kevin's story is one of resilience, as he seeks to find his place in a world that often misunderstands those with mental health challenges. In this episode, Chris and Kevin delve into the complexities of mental health, particularly focusing on the dynamics of therapy and the impact of childhood experiences on adult behaviour. Kevin shares his personal journey through therapy, highlighting the challenges of navigating emotions and relationships, especially in a group setting where individuals with antisocial personality disorder come together. He reflects on the importance of understanding one's past and how it shapes present interactions, emphasising the need for a supportive environment that encourages open dialogue and emotional growth.

The conversation also critiques the concept of 'safe spaces' in therapy, arguing that true healing comes from confronting uncomfortable truths rather than avoiding them. Kevin discusses the role of his therapist, Dr. Jessica Yakely, and the significance of having a supportive partner in his recovery journey. The episode concludes with a call for better parenting practices and community support to prevent the development of severe mental health issues stemming from childhood trauma, advocating for a return to family values and open communication.

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Summary

In the inaugural episode of PD Squared, host Chris welcomes psychiatrist Jessica Akely, who specialises in forensic psychotherapy at the Portman Clinic. Jessica explains the nature of forensic psychotherapy, which involves treating individuals who have encountered legal issues, often stemming from violent or sexual behaviours. She emphasises the importance of voluntary participation in therapy, noting that patients who come willingly tend to benefit more from the treatment. The conversation delves into the complexities of working with individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder, highlighting the challenges of motivation and the stigma surrounding mental health treatment for this demographic.

As the discussion progresses, Jessica shares insights about the effectiveness of group therapy, particularly for men dealing with aggression and violence. She describes how these groups foster meaningful connections among participants, often referred to as the 'family they never had.' The episode also touches on the systemic prejudices faced by individuals with personality disorders, the challenges of communication within mental health services, and the need for a more compassionate, trauma-informed approach to care. Jessica advocates for better training and understanding among professionals to improve treatment outcomes for those with complex mental health needs.

Takeaways

Patients benefit more when they come to therapy voluntarily.

Group therapy can create meaningful connections among individuals with similar struggles.

Stigma and prejudice against personality disorders persist in mental health services.

Long-term therapy is often necessary for individuals with complex trauma histories.

Mentalization-based treatment can help individuals understand their emotions and behaviours.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Forensic Psychotherapy

04:04 The Role of Group Therapy

10:18 Prejudice and Stigma in Mental Health

20:18 Challenges in Communication and Care

29:43 The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care

39:29 Good Clinical Practice and Training

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