Anxiety Matters

Medication Matters: What Every Parent Should Know About Psychiatric Medication for Kids & Teens with Guest Dr. Ethan Hockheiser

The Bonnies talk with Dr. Ethan Hochheiser, a board-certified psychiatrist in general and child & adolescent psychiatry, about when medication may be appropriate for children and teens with anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression, and related concerns. They discuss how therapy is often tried first, but medication may be considered sooner when symptoms are severe, functioning is impaired, or treatment is not helping enough. They review common SSRI side effects in children, including nausea, diarrhea, headaches, temporary activation, and possible weight gain, as well as less common risks such as suicidal thoughts and mania in those with a predisposition. They also discuss how SSRIs may work, the role of monitoring and family history, and the goal of improving symptoms and tapering medication after sustained remission. The episode closes with discussion of OCD, premenstrual dysphoric symptoms, and ADHD, including how SSRIs can help OCD and PMDD and how ADHD often responds well to medication. HIGHLIGHTS: 4:17 Meet Dr. Ethan Hochheiser 9:04 When Medication Makes Sense 15:12 SSRI Risks and Side Effects 19:48 What Medications Mean for the Brain 23:17 OCD, Exposure, and SSRIs 27:06 Treating Premenstrual Symptoms 28:14 How SSRIs Work 31:12 Stopping Medication Safely 32:43 Are We Over-diagnosing ADHD? 36:48 ADHD Treatment Advantages connect with Dr. Hochheiser website: https://www.ethanhochheisermd.com CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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Why Is Asking For Help So Hard? Tips on Managing All Shades of Social Anxiety

This episode focuses on social anxiety in everyday life, including difficulty asking for help, making small requests, and fearing judgment or inconvenience. The Bonnies talk about exposure exercises for facing these situations, such as asking for samples or interrupting someone to make a request, and explain how these exercises can show that the feared reaction often does not happen. They also discuss planning for harder outcomes, common forms of avoidance like delaying calls or texts, and encouraging small behavior changes such as saying no, asking for help, and starting difficult tasks sooner. HIGHLIGHTS: 1:49 Whole Foods Exposure Practice 7:36 Handling Rude Reactions 11:46 Asking for Testimonials 15:48 Everyday Social Anxiety Triggers CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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ERP for OCD: Are Extreme Exposures Necessary?

The Bonnies episode on May 28 when BZW visited BZE in Maryland, where they recorded OCD exposure exercises at Whole Foods, was posted on their social media where they received many comments. This episode covers some of the reactions to those exposures, including concerns about ethics and health risks. In response, the Bonnies explain that exposure and response prevention involves facing ordinary contamination fears and that the goal is not to cause illness but to help people tolerate uncertainty and reduce avoidance. This episode starts with a hilarious meeting they had recently with their accountant so don't skip ahead! HIGHLIGHTS: 1:01 The Accountant 'Disaster' 7:15 Eye Exam & Meeting All in One 9:23 Whole Foods Exposures 11:33 Addressing the Ethics 18:05 Expired Food Exposure 19:46 Listener Reactions and Wrap-Up CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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Making Peace with ADHD: Hollywood Writer Jordan Roberts Shares About Self-Acceptance

The Bonnies welcome Jordan Roberts, a writer and director with a long career in television and film, who has also built a coaching practice focused on creative blocks, addiction, ADHD, and shadow work. Jordan describes his background in a show-business family, his struggles as a young person with drugs, alcohol, anxiety, and not feeling good enough, and how early therapy opened a different way of thinking. He talks about pursuing validation through creative work, even after major professional success, and how that left the deeper issue of self-worth unresolved. They discuss the shift that came for Jordan from shadow work and from recognizing inner parts that had been hidden or rejected. Jordan explains how he began to allow rather than judge vulnerable, ashamed, or fearful parts of himself, including a late diagnosis of ADHD, and how medication and practical tools now support him. They also talk about anxiety, shame, and the “second arrow” of self-criticism. Jordan describes how meeting his own parts with attention rather than fixing them changed his experience, how this affects his writing now, and how he sees creativity, risk-taking, and emotional honesty as connected to this ongoing work. HIGHLIGHTS: 4:01 Jordan’s Background 6:45 A Powerful Commencement Speech 7:55 Showbiz and Self-Doubt 13:52 Validation Never Filled It 17:03 Meeting the Shadow 20:35 Parts Work and Anxiety 23:18 Allowing the Feeling 25:44 Late ADHD Diagnosis 33:08 The Anxiety Gap 35:50 Feelings Are Not Bad 37:25 Reparenting Through Shadow Work 39:21 Men and Emotional Shame 42:17 Shadow Work Fuels Creativity 44:11 It’s Never Too Late mentioned in episode Jordan's Commencement Speech: https://www.youtube.com/live/sxC8gYAOKe4?si=142nL-SPqAvoGTGh&t=1913 Permission to Feel: https://a.co/d/0hksoWy5 Stick Up For Yourself: https://a.co/d/0j2lScIn The Artist's Way: https://a.co/d/07ZzanXe Driven to Distraction: https://a.co/d/08odLBuE CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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You Are Not Your Thoughts: How to Let Anxiety Pass Without Engaging

The Bonnies discuss detached mindfulness as a strategy for anxiety, including how it fits within metacognitive therapy. They explain the idea of shifting from participating in thoughts to observing them, especially when a triggering thought leads to rumination or catastrophizing. They describe how this approach is used with health anxiety and panic, where people may focus too closely on bodily sensations. They talk about moving attention outward, noticing when the mind is returning to familiar anxiety patterns, and treating those patterns as a brain habit rather than as facts. BZE also explains a practical exercise for detached mindfulness. The exercise uses a short set of neutral, false, and anxiety-provoking statements, which are read aloud several times before ending with the reminder that thoughts are just thoughts and have no power unless we give them power. The practice is meant to help clients step back from anxious thinking in daily life. They compare this with other mindfulness approaches, including breath focus, body scans, and sound-based exercises, and note that some methods can be difficult for people with anxiety. They close by emphasizing that the goal is not to eliminate thoughts, but to relate to them more as an observer than as a participant. HIGHLIGHTS: 1:27 Anxiety as Thought Traps 3:54 Observing Body Fears 7:15 Detached Mindfulness Practice 10:05 Testing Thoughts Out Loud 15:25 Traditional Mindfulness Options 17:11 Body Scan Memories mentioned in the episode: Metacognitive Therapy for Anxiety and Depression: https://a.co/d/02NNphWN CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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Anxiety Q&A: Real Questions - Evidence-Based Answers

Bonnie and Bonnie talk about comments BZW has received on her social media posts about fear of flying, which drew a large response. People described fears of crashing, being stuck on the plane, turbulence, getting sick, and having panic attacks during flights. A major part of their conversation focuses on vomiting fears, which they share is a common specific phobia. They discuss how some people fear vomiting because it is disgusting, while others fear getting sick, gagging, or not being able to breathe, and they share exposure-based approaches such as watching vomiting videos, gagging exercises, and gradual food-related exposure. They also touch on panic attack “kits” and other safety objects such as sour candy, ice packs, Xanax, water bottles, and phones. They explain that these can feel helpful at first, but that treatment often involves reducing safety behaviors so that panic stops feeling dangerous and life is less organized around avoiding it. Finally, they answer a question about whether GERD or acid reflux can be connected to panic attacks or anxiety. They explain that physical symptoms can trigger anxiety, that the gut-brain connection may play a role, and that treating the physical symptoms can sometimes reduce anxiety, often in coordination with other medical care. HIGHLIGHTS: 0:07 Flying Fears Online 3:33 Vomiting Phobias 8:18 Panic Kit Debate 12:27 Gut-Brain Anxiety CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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What Drains You & What Fuels You: Establishing Better Boundaries for Mental Health

The Bonnies talk about healthy boundaries and why saying yes too quickly can lead to stress, resentment, and over-commitment. They discuss the value of pausing before agreeing to requests, checking whether guilt or obligation is driving our decisions, and thinking through time and energy demands. Each share examples of setting and missing boundaries, including turning down an unpaid, high-stress therapy role and realizing that staying up late for fireworks was not worth the loss of sleep. They also talk about boundaries with themselves, such as protecting sleep, noticing when plans no longer fit what we need, and treating mistakes as learning opportunities. They also cover practical ways to make boundary-setting easier, including listing what gives us energy and what drains us, paying attention to body and mood cues, and reviewing commitments with fresh eyes. They also note that this applies across work, friendships, family obligations, and traditions, and that practicing saying no can make it easier over time. HIGHLIGHTS: 0:48 Healthy Boundaries 4:14 Sleep Boundary Mistakes 10:23 July Fourth Decisions 13:31 Energy Audit Exercise 18:46 Boundary Practice Tips 22:36 Protecting Your Well-Being 24:17 Make a Boundary List mentioned in episode Vibrate Higher Daily: https://a.co/d/0iRfappV CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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Death Anxiety: How to Cope with the Fear of Dying with Hospice Nurse Penny

Bonnie and Bonnie talk about death and dying through the lens of anxiety, and discuss how direct, clear language can help make the topic less frightening. They also share how avoiding words like “died” can increase fear, especially for children, and why early, honest conversations about death matter. The two speak with Penny Smith, a recently retired hospice and palliative care nurse, author of *Influencing Death: Reframing Dying for Better Living*, and social media educator known as Hospice Nurse Penny. Penny shares her personal history, including addiction, jail, and becoming a nurse at 40 and explains that learning about death and working in hospice helped reduce her own death anxiety and gave her a sense of service and purpose. She describes what dying can look like in hospice, including transitioning, body changes, and deathbed visions. Penny explains that these experiences are often comforting, are not the same as hallucinations, and are part of what she considers normal at the end of life. They discuss acceptance as a major part of reducing fear of death. Penny says that talking about death, seeing dying as a natural process, and educating families can reduce anxiety and help people focus more on living than on worrying about dying. HIGHLIGHTS: 3:17 Meet Hospice Nurse Penny 6:04 From Addiction to Hospice 9:54 Talking Death With Kids 14:16 Normalizing the Dying Process 18:27 Deathbed Visions and Acceptance 21:52 Personal Encounters With Death 28:05 What Dying People See 33:29 Hallucinations or Visions? 36:44 The Nun’s Final Insight 40:09 TikTok and the Ripple Effect connect with Hospice Nurse Penny website: https://www.hospicenursepenny.com Influencing Death: https://www.hospicenursepenny.com/book mentioned in this episode Book by Bonnie Zucker - Something Very Sad Happened: https://a.co/d/0dkKVH0V CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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Travel Anxiety Explained: Expert Tips for Stress-Free Trips

In this episode, BZW and BZE talk about travel anxiety and the different forms it can take. They discuss fear of flying, worry about being far from home, concern about leaving a house unattended, and anxiety about pets, work, or access to medical care while away. They also talk about how anticipatory anxiety can build before a trip and how it can affect decisions about whether to go, how long to stay, and how far to travel. They suggest identifying the specific root of the fear so it can be addressed directly. A major theme is using a values-driven approach rather than letting fear make the decision. The Bonnies talk about remembering why we are traveling, such as spending time with family, taking a break, and experiencing new places and cultures. They also discuss practical coping strategies, including checking in with other people to compare worries, arranging care for pets and the house, and using graded exposure when possible. For fear of flying, they suggest, if possible, starting with shorter flights or, if needed, using a simulated long-flight exercise. HIGHLIGHTS: 2:11 Why Travel Feels Scary 4:45 Finding The Positive 7:35 Root Causes And Reframes 10:38 Graded Exposure For Flying 14:37 My Travel Scam Story 18:46 Pets And Trip Planning 22:37 Vacation Advice CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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LGBTQ+, Mental Health & DBT Skills: Tools for Emotional Well-Being with Dr. Kiki Fehling

Dr. Kiki Fehling (aka DBT Kiki) is back with the Bonnies to discuss dialectical behavior therapy, LGBTQ+ mental health, and how language shapes understanding and treatment. They discuss why DBT has been useful for many different concerns, including anxiety, emotional dysregulation, PTSD, substance use, eating disorders, and depression. Kiki explains DBT’s main skill areas: emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. They all agree that DBT breaks complex problems into concrete, structured steps, and how that makes the skills easier to use in daily life and in therapy. A major focus of the conversation is minority stress and its impact on LGBTQ+ people. They discuss discrimination, anticipated discrimination, and internalized stigma, as well as the importance of affirming language, representation, and feeling understood. Kiki goes on to clarify terms such as queer, cisgender, and related identity language. The Bonnies ask about the development of Kiki's LGBTQ+ Mental Health Workbook and her work making evidence-based psychotherapy more accessible. Also discussed is how queer people can use DBT skills like opposite action, coping skills, and community connection to respond to shame, anxiety, and rejection sensitivity. They close with a discussion of resilience, queer joy, intersectionality, and collective support. Dr. Fehling also mentions practical ways to find resources, including LGBTQ+ community centers, affirming therapists, and independent bookstores. HIGHLIGHTS: 3:39 DBT Becomes More Accessible 5:33 What DBT Really Teaches 10:34 Why This Book Matters 12:47 Queer Language and Identity 17:46 Understanding Minority Stress 24:54 Bi Visibility and Stigma 29:53 Resilience and Queer Joy 32:59 DBT Skills for Queer Clients 37:16 Finding Safe Resources connect with DBT Kiki website: https://www.kikifehling.com substack: https://howtoqueerjoy.substack.com The LGBTQ+ Mental Health Workbook: https://www.kikifehling.com/lgbtqworkbook resources mentioned: CenterLink: https://www.lgbtqcenters.org Bookshop: https://bookshop.org CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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From Rested to Joyful: Psychological Strategies for a Better Life

In this episode the Bonnies continue their discussion of sleep and what they learned after our previous conversation about CBT-I for insomnia. They review core sleep as including REM and deep sleep, and note that adults are generally still recommended to get seven to nine hours of sleep. They talk about how people often become anxious about not sleeping well and start catastrophizing about the next day. They each share their own recent experiences of getting too little sleep, including waking early, getting out of bed instead of lying awake, and finding that they could still function and work through the day. The two then discuss how tiredness can sometimes change our mood and behavior in unexpected ways. BZE describes being more patient with ourselves, lowering our standards a little, and becoming calmer or more reflective when we are exhausted. They also mention that being tired can sometimes reduce anxiety and interrupt hypervigilance. The episodes wraps up by turning to the idea of joy and a book BZE recently started reading, Joyful Anyway by Kate Bowler. They talk about how difficult things and joy can exist at the same time, and how important it is to notice access to joy in daily life, even when the world feels overwhelming. HIGHLIGHTS: 0:39 Core Sleep Explained 3:55 Rethinking a Bad Night 8:02 Flow and Self-Compassion 12:24 Finding Joy Anyway 16:30 Lightness After Darkness mentioned in this episode: Joyful Anyway by Kate Bowler: https://a.co/d/05ornj2P Seat of the Soul by Gary Zukav: https://a.co/d/0hlFqvLh CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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Why You Can't Sleep and How CBT-I Fixes It with guest Dr. Jesse Spiegel

The Bonnies introduce Dr. Jesse Spiegel, a licensed clinical psychologist who treats children, adolescents, and adults. This episode focuses on insomnia and on cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, or CBTI, which they discuss as a first-line treatment. Dr. Jesse explains how insomnia is distinguished from short-term sleep problems. He describes chronic insomnia as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early, occurring at least three nights a week for at least three months, with clear distress or impaired functioning. They discuss the main ideas behind CBTI and talk about sleep drive, circadian timing, and arousal, and how these factors interact with chronotype. Dr. Jesse notes that morning and evening types may have different sleep patterns, and we discuss that chronotype is largely biological. Dr. Jesse also covers the behavioral parts of treatment. He explains stimulus control, including going to bed only when sleepy, getting out of bed if unable to sleep, using the bed only for sleep and sex, waking at the same time each day, and avoiding naps when possible. He then describes sleep restriction, where time in bed is adjusted to better match actual sleep time in order to improve sleep efficiency. Finally, they talk about the thoughts and habits that can keep insomnia going. Also mentioned is worry, catastrophic thinking, safety behaviors, and the way sleep tracking devices can become unhelpful for some people. The goal with treatment is that it aims to reduce pressure around sleep and make it feel more effortless. HIGHLIGHTS: 6:03 Meet Dr. Jesse Spiegel 7:38 What Is CBT-I? 12:02 Sleep Drive and Body Clock 19:40 Bed Becomes a Battleground 23:48 How CBTI Treats Insomnia 30:09 The Core Sleep Debate 34:20 Calming Sleep Anxiety 39:10 Reframing Sleep Thoughts 43:23 Wearables and Sleep Logs connect with Dr. Jesse website: https://www.drjessespiegel.com CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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A Day in the Life of an OCD Psychologist (part 2): The Effectiveness of ERP for OCD

In this part 2 BZE and BZW discuss anxiety and OCD through their clinical work and personal experiences, including a recent visit in Maryland and time spent together in person. They talk about exposure work at Whole Foods, contamination fears, and how exposures can be broken into smaller steps while still helping retrain reactions to triggering situations. They also discuss social anxiety, selective attention to negative events, and the body’s physical anxiety response, including adrenaline, cortisol, shortness of breath, and a faster heartbeat. Along the way, they share a few personal moments from the visit, including the BZE's dog, a train delay, and a mix-up over continuing education credits. HIGHLIGHTS: 2:54 OCD Exposures Explained 6:45 Anxiety and Threat Perception 10:24 Unattended Drinks and Safety 17:34 Cassidy’s Warm Welcome 19:20 Train Ride Troubles 21:24 Mixed-Up CEs CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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A Day in the Life of an OCD Psychologist: Bonnie West Visits Bonnie East in Maryland

East meets West in this special episode of Anxiety Matters as Bonnie West travels to visit Bonnie East. After an excitedly heartwarming welcome, the two enjoy good food and drink as they discuss exciting new plans for Anxiety Matters. The two hit up Bonnie East's local Whole Foods to do a live exposure exercise. They leave tea on a shelf, walk away for a while, and return to drink it and describe the purpose of these exercises as helping people tolerate uncertainty, discomfort, and the anxiety that rises and then falls. They discuss several kinds of exposure work, including asking for help, interrupting someone, leaving items unattended, and handling contamination fears including a more direct contamination exposure involving a chip that is placed on a shelf and then on the floor before being eaten. BZE describes how some people need repeated practice before they are willing to do it, and notes that doing the feared action often reduces anxiety more than expected. Later, BZW visits BZE's office and home, where they talk about the workspace, the artwork created by Bonnie East's mom, and family-made gifts. They wrap up by discussing BZE's home, the dog, the Christmas decorations, how they each work and the surprising place Bonnie East records episodes of the podcast. You'll want to listen in, not only for valuable information on exposure exercises, but for the fun these two share when they're together. HIGHLIGHTS: 1:18 Whole Foods Exposure 5:17 Challenging Contamination Fears 7:49 Tolerating Uncertainty 9:49 Eating the Floor Chip 14:08 Flooding Exposures 17:05 Visiting the Office 20:24 House Tour and Gifts 24:21 Cozy Home Reflections CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

A Perfectionist's Guide to Not Being Perfect

In this episode BZE and BZW talk about perfectionism through their own habits and experiences, from the pressure to make the “right” choice to the way rigid standards can show up in everyday life. They discuss BZE's book *A Perfectionist’s Guide to Not Being Perfect*, written for middle and high school readers, and how it was shaped by her writing routine and the disruptions of early 2020. They explore how perfectionism can lead to inflexibility, repeated checking, procrastination, and avoidance in school, work, and relationships. They also discuss treatment approaches that focus on flexibility, including exposure exercises, small acts of spontaneity, and learning to tolerate mistakes. The two then look at perfectionism in students and families, including test anxiety, social media, college decisions, and parental pressure. They close by emphasizing practical ways to respond to perfectionism, such as time limits for avoided tasks and reducing harsh self-criticism, with flexibility presented as more helpful than perfection. HIGHLIGHTS: 3:06 Eye Exam Epiphany 5:33 Writing Through Perfectionism 8:43 Flexibility Over Control 12:03 When Perfection Hurts 13:21 Building Flexible Habits 16:26 Social Media Pressure 19:01 Success Beyond Grades 23:27 Parenting Through Mistakes 27:41 College Choices Matter Less 30:05 Break the Avoidance Cycle mentioned in the episode: A Perfectionist's Guide to Not Being Perfect by Bonnie (East): https://a.co/d/0ajFPyrp The Obstacle is the Way book: https://a.co/d/01abU2GT CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Books by Bonnie West: https://a.co/d/04aNJFDZ Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com Books by Bonnie East: https://shorturl.at/MxvRZ The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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Panic Attack or Heart Attack: Treatment Strategies That Work

In this episode, BZW and BZE revisit Ireland Baldwin's journey with health anxiety and panic disorder, examining how trauma, genetics, and environmental factors intersect to influence anxiety. They explore the cycle of fear and heightened sensitivity to bodily sensations, advocating for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as a key intervention. Their discussion highlights interoceptive exposure techniques to confront discomfort and stresses the importance of supportive relationships with established boundaries. Ireland’s story illustrates that, with effective strategies, individuals can manage anxiety and reclaim control over their lives, empowering listeners to understand their own experiences with anxiety. Be sure to listen to episode 64 with Ireland Baldwin to understand the foundation of her health anxiety. HIGHLIGHTS: 1:09 Follow-Up on Ireland Baldwin interview (ep 64) 4:13 Exploring Health Anxiety 5:36 The Role of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy 7:52 Personal Stories and Panic Buttons 9:42 Addressing Trauma and EMDR 11:09 Understanding Family Support 15:34 The Importance of Tolerating Uncertainty 17:17 Interoceptive Exposure Explained CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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Living with Health Anxiety & Panic: Guest Ireland Baldwin shares her story

In this special episode of Anxiety Matters, the Bonnies engage in an enlightening conversation with Ireland Baldwin, an accomplished screenwriter, producer, and animal rights advocate. Together, they explore her deeply personal experiences with health anxiety, particularly stemming from a traumatic incident in her childhood that reshaped her understanding of mortality and wellness. As they delve into the complexities of anxiety, Ireland shares vivid instances where her health fears manifest in day-to-day life. They discuss the urgency that comes with her heightened awareness of bodily sensations, and how even minor changes in heart rate can send her spiraling into a cycle of panic. The conversation highlights the unique struggles faced by those who experience health anxiety, where the interplay between physical sensations and catastrophic thoughts creates a formidable barrier to peace of mind. They also touch on the role of medical professionals and the importance of feeling validated in one’s health concerns. Ireland shares her gratitude for her supportive doctor who understands her anxiety, as well as her journey through various therapies. Notably, she mentions her reluctance to rely on medication due to the fear of adverse subconscious reactions, underscoring the importance of finding the right balance in treatment approaches. As their conversation progresses, they unpack the notion of community and connection, illustrating how sharing experiences with anxiety can foster understanding and reassurance. Throughout their discussion, Ireland resonates with listeners by normalizing the feelings of embarrassment and isolation that often accompany anxiety disorders. This candid dialogue not only offers insights into her personal coping strategies—such as managing triggers, identifying supportive partners, and utilizing tools for reassurance—but also serves as a reminder of the collective struggle many face regarding mental health. HIGHLIGHTS: 3:04 Meet Ireland Baldwin 4:56 Childhood Trauma 9:57 Anxiety Runs in Family 12:14 Health Anxiety Triggers 18:20 Support That Helps 21:33 Body Sensations and Panic 24:15 Therapy and Medication Struggles 29:22 Seeking New Treatment 32:22 Internet Fuels Fear 36:32 Testing and Reassurance 39:04 Why Believing Patients Matters 41:03 Uncertainty and Exposure Work 44:10 Common Struggles, Big Relief mentioned in episode CBT Interoceptive Exposure video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sigXTV5QXik CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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Freedom from Panic: Tools from Bonnie Zucker West's book (Interview with Bonnie East)

In an exclusive first, Bonnie East explores the complexities of panic and anxiety with Bonnie West, a psychologist specializing in anxiety. They delve into topics surrounding BZW's upcoming book, "Freedom from Panic," set to release May 1, 2026, which provides essential guidance for those experiencing panic attacks and panic disorder. BZW begins by clarifying what differentiates a panic attack from panic disorder, two phenomena often confused. A panic attack is described as a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort, marked by symptoms like a racing heart or difficulty breathing. When these attacks recur and lead individuals to alter their daily lives due to fear, it's categorized as panic disorder.. Throughout the conversation, they reflect on the impact panic attacks can have on an individual, including the potential for repeated emergency room visits, as many mistakenly believe they are experiencing a heart attack rather than an anxiety-induced episode. Bonnie West discusses the alarming statistic that 40% of those visiting emergency rooms for chest pain may actually be suffering from anxiety. As they share various strategies for coping with panic attacks, BZW shares practical tips that she introduces in her book right from the beginning, emphasizing immediate skills for managing anxiety in the moment. She advocates for activating the parasympathetic nervous system through techniques like cold exposure, which can help calm the body during panic episodes. This section is crucial as it addresses the urgent needs of individuals seeking relief amidst an acute panic attack, bridging the gap between understanding anxiety and finding actionable tools to cope with it. In addition, BZW elaborates on her experiences with interoceptive exposure, an effective treatment for panic disorder. This involves systematically inducing panic sensations to help patients confront and thus desensitize themselves to these fears. She shares the importance of using a compassionate approach in therapy, meeting clients where they are and gradually guiding them to understand their bodily sensations without allowing anxiety to dictate their actions. Throughout their discussion, Bonnie West beautifully connects her professional insights to personal anecdotes, including her own experiences with panic, revealing the profound impact anxiety can have on anyone, regardless of their training or background. Order your copy of Freedom From Panic: https://a.co/d/05rLnlLK HIGHLIGHTS: 2:39 Understanding Panic Attacks 6:27 Distinguishing Panic Disorder 8:41 When to Seek Therapy 9:33 Preventative Interventions 11:26 Bonnie's Background in Panic Research 14:33 The Impact of Panic Disorder 16:30 The Value of Early Intervention 17:13 The Journey to Writing a Book 21:45 Navigating the Publishing Process 22:52 Types of Panic and Their Sources 30:00 Coping Strategies for Panic Attacks CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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When Therapy Isn't Enough: How Psychologists Decide to Refer for Anxiety Medication

In this enlightening episode of Anxiety Matters, BZE and BZW dive into the role of psychiatric medication in managing anxiety, reflecting on BZE's earlier hesitance towards its use alongside cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Now reflecting on her journey as a psychologist, BZE emphasizes the importance of considering medication as a supplemental resource, particularly for clients with severe anxiety. They discuss the critical moments for referral to a psychiatrist, the potential benefits of SSRIs like Zoloft and Lexapro, and address client hesitations regarding medication side effects. They highlight the necessity of a tailored approach, advocating for the integration of medication where appropriate, while simultaneously encouraging open discussions and recognizing the complexity of anxiety treatment. This conversation aims to illuminate the evolving understanding of psychiatric medication's place in holistic anxiety management, urging listeners to explore all avenues for effective recovery. HIGHLIGHTS: 2:28 Psychiatric Medication Discussions 5:20 Shifts in Medication Perspectives 8:11 Client Resistance to Medication 11:58 The Role of Benzodiazepines 15:36 One-Off Medication Use 17:19 Brain Chemistry and Therapy 19:19 Case-by-Case Approach to Treatment CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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Trying to Get Pregnant is Stressful: Guest Dr. Julie Bindeman on Coping with Anxiety & Fertility

BZW and BZE bring to light the often unspoken emotional struggles that accompany reproductive anxiety. Today’s discussion tackles the delicate nature of reproductive anxiety, particularly for those struggling with infertility with esteemed guest, Dr. Julie Bindeman, a leading voice in reproductive psychology and the co-owner of Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington. Dr. Bindeman shares her expertise and personal narratives around the nuanced emotional landscape individuals navigate as they confront infertility and reproductive anxiety. The trio delves into the notion of the "reproductive story," a framework that captures each person's unique experience with reproduction, whether that involves having children, pursuing adoption, or choosing not to have children altogether. Understanding this spectrum is vital for normalizing varying reproductive paths and reducing the stigma associated with non-traditional choices. They underscore the importance of open communication within couples during this time. Partners often feel sidelined in reproductive journeys, leading to feelings of inadequacy and misunderstanding. Dr. Bindeman further explores the impact of anxiety on the fertility journey, dismantling the myth that stress directly causes infertility or pregnancy loss and stresses the importance of recognizing that anxiety is a natural response to uncertainty, especially in contexts where the stakes feel high. This conversation also opens up a dialogue around the roles of medication and mental health support in managing anxiety during pregnancy and conception. They highlight the significance of evidence-based approaches while addressing the fear, stigma, and misinformation that often overwhelm those seeking help. In a world where so much about reproduction is shrouded in silence or misconceptions, raising awareness and promoting understanding is the key goal of this episode. HIGHLIGHTS: 6:39 Welcoming Dr. Julie Bindeman 7:46 Exploring Reproductive Psychology 9:02 Navigating Infertility Experiences 13:08 Emotional Complexity of Pregnancy 17:32 The Role of Donor Gametes 29:48 Anxiety and Fertility Myths 35:15 Uncertainty in Reproductive Journeys 36:32 Supporting Partners in Reproductive Anxiety 44:24 The Importance of Specialized Support connect with Dr. Bindeman Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington website: https://greaterwashingtontherapy.com/julie-bindeman-psyd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drbindeman CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS: Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west) website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east) website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.

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