The best mental health podcasts are designed to fit seamlessly into our ongoing schedules. Our collective pace (hint: it’s fast!) is ironically both why it can be difficult to prioritize helping each other And why it is so essential. “As a therapist in private practice, I always encourage my clients to seek out and use resources that complement their mental health,” says Dr. Terri Bacow, a CBT psychologist based in New York. “We are all extremely busy and listening to podcasts is a wonderful way to receive support effectively and efficiently. »
In addition to reinforcing our daily mental health routines, podcast hosts and guests serve to educate listeners, making them a valuable resource on the go. “Podcasts are a great way to enable deeper learning, connection and introspection on any topic, especially mental health,” says Dr. Daryl Appleton, specializing in the mental health of high achievers. “I like to remind my clients that the media we consume is important. Adding comforting, even empowering, episodes and podcast topics is a helpful way to continue growth and development.
Although experts are quick to point out that podcasts are not a replacement for therapy, they provide concrete coping skills that can be easily integrated into your daily life for instant improvement. And finally, mental health podcasts can foster a sense of community, even if you listen to them solo. “The magic of mental health podcasts is that they help people feel less alone,” says Bacow. “You can find a sense of community as well as empathy, compassion and understanding.”
Here, 15 of the best mental health podcasts, recommended by therapists.
Hosted by Untamed author Glennon Doyle, with his wife Abby Wambach and sister Amanda Doyle, We can do hard things (the title is a nod to Doyle’s personal mantra) focuses on life’s difficulties and ways to deal with them. “I love the brilliant minds of Glennon, Abby and Amanda and their raw, unfiltered style for tackling some of the most important issues we face both individually and collectively,” says the psychiatrist and executive coach. Dr Anna Yusim.
An agreed favorite among our experts, Where should we start helps couples resolve complex issues. “Esther talks about the common difficulties couples face and is able to dissect her therapy sessions in a way that is acceptable to therapists and non-therapists alike,” says Alyssa Mancao, psychotherapist and wellness practitioner. “It provides tools and actionable information that people can use in their own relationships; and it also destigmatizes the issues that couples face on a daily basis.
“This podcast is the epitome of ‘It’s OK to not be OK,’” Appleton says. “Validating and raw, each episode features terrific guests and dialogue around some of life’s most difficult topics. This is one of my favorites for needing a moment of clarity and feeling seen on a tough day.
It’s impossible to fully address mental health without talking about physical health. General practitioner and author Rangan Chatterjee, MD explores this connection, speaking with health experts and sharing ways to help you increase (or overhaul) your routines and feel better.
“I can listen to Laurie talk forever,” says Yusim, who works closely with Santos at Yale. “She is such a brilliant thinker and speaker who expertly integrates the latest scientific research to help us understand how to think, feel and be happier and more fulfilled on a regular basis.”
Mental illness happy hour talks about mental health with a refreshing frankness, making listeners feel safe and free to smile in the face of whatever happens to them. “Laughter is still my medicine of choice,” says Appleton. “This podcast attracts great guests in the mental health and science fields and injects humor into the conversations. Perfect for when you need a pick-me-up or a smile during a tough time.
From the creator of the fan favorite The hilarious world of depression, Depresh Fashion with John Moe features conversations with celebrities and creators like David Sedaris, Jamie Lee Curtis, Cheryl Strayed, and more. Moe and his guests discuss what it means to live with what he calls “an interesting mind” and how to deal with the reality of being a human being with big feelings.
“This great anxiety podcast covers all aspects of anxiety and includes discussions about other mental health issues, including body dysmorphic disorder (BDD),” says Bacow. “It’s impossible not to find a topic that will interest you.” And, as a bonus: “Several episodes are devoted to success stories, which bring hope to listeners without leaning towards toxic positivity. »
Appleton’s own podcast uses research and common sense to help listeners separate facts from feelings. “I created Feelings and other F words as a way to answer the questions I get the most,” she says. “This podcast analyzes the science behind why we are the way we are and gives actionable insights on what we can do to fix it. »
“I love this podcast, who among us hasn’t been ghosted?” », Enthuses Bacow. “The host, Greta, is warm and wonderful and talks about her own experience with ghosting. Although ghosting is a very specific experience, there are many mental health aspects to dealing with this type of rejection, and I recommend this podcast to all of my clients who have had this (unfortunately all-too-common) experience.
Hosted by clinical psychologist Robert Duff, this podcast covers a number of mental health topics without what Duff calls “psychobabble.” “He is doing a great job of making psychiatry accessible to the general public,” says Yusim. “I really like how open he is about his own life and his story in his podcast.”
Psych Central’s award-winning podcast features conversations on a wide range of topics viewed through the lens of mental health, including historical events and their lasting impact, current collective events (think burnout and mental health culture). cancellation), specific types of therapy, and many more. more.
“This podcast has over 300 episodes and is simply fantastic! » said Bacow. “Episodes tackle exciting topics ranging from how trauma affects the brain, dealing with imposter syndrome and perfectionism, maintaining friendships as an adult, and talk about the importance mental health for all. »
Author of The Happiness Project Gretchen Rubin talks all things active happiness, from daily tips and tricks to new routines and perspective shifts. Topics include everything from how to fall asleep faster, how to bond (and remember names), how to deal with regrets, and much more.
Listening to discussions about mental health is one thing, implementing daily practices is another. “For those of us who can’t sit still for too long, this podcast offers microdosing in meditation,” says Appleton. “Each episode is perfect for 5-10 minutes of mediation, on-demand and when you need it most.”
If you feel hopeless, please seek professional medical attention immediately. Dial 988 on any phone in the United States to be connected to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, where someone is available to talk 24 hours a day.
