The Hidden Danger In Your Medicine Cabinet!

Improve your relationships and enhance your interpersonal skills with the Dear Man technique, a powerful tool derived from dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek as they delve into the intricacies of this technique and its application for individuals with substance use disorders and borderline personality disorder.The Dear Man technique helps you navigate challenging conversations and assert your intentions confidently. Discover how to effectively express your opinions and emotions, set appropriate boundaries, and strengthen your position in interpersonal interactions. Learn the art of saying no without fear of rejection or resentment.By employing this technique, you'll gain valuable insights into understanding the whole picture, assessing extenuating circumstances, and choosing your battles wisely. Additionally, explore the importance of scriptwriting, holistic management, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness as part of a comprehensive approach to personal growth.Don't miss this opportunity to develop your interpersonal effectiveness and build healthier relationships. Watch now and transform your communication skills with the Dear Man technique!Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle.Latest Blogshttps://www.meducate.com.au/blogAbout Meducate ®Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public.See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au

2 Aug 202323min

In this episode, we explore the diagnosis of depression and its subtypes. Depression is a powerful emotional state that affects work, relationships, and more. We delve into major depression, the symptoms, and diagnostic criteria. We discuss how depression can be a clinical disorder, not just negative thoughts. Dan Pham emphasises the importance of explaining the diagnosis to loved ones. We also examine persistent depressive disorder, adjustment disorder, and the link between depression and substance use disorders. We debunk the monoamine hypothesis and discuss the complexity of depression's causes. The show explores the compounding effects of substance use and stress. We highlight the role of antidepressants, psychological therapies, and lifestyle factors in managing depression. Join us on "Cracking Addiction" to delve into the complexities of depression and effective treatments. Subscribe now for mental health insights!

26 Juli 202322min

Join us on Cracking Addiction as we delve into the fascinating world of dual diagnosis and triple diagnosis in addiction medicine. Dual diagnosis refers to the coexistence of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder, while triple diagnosis encompasses the additional dimension of physical health. In this thought-provoking series, experts Dan Pham and Ferghal Armstrong explore the interplay between mental health, substance use, and physical well-being, shedding light on the complex relationships and effective treatment approaches. Discover the importance of holistic care, the impact of co-occurring disorders, and the need for integrated treatment in improving outcomes. Don't miss out on this enlightening journey into the intricate web of addiction and mental health. Subscribe now to Cracking Addiction and unlock the keys to comprehensive recovery.

19 Juli 202327min

Welcome to the 100th episode of Cracking Addiction. In this milestone episode, we delve deep into the assessment of dependency, comparing home-based detox with inpatient detox, and explore the fundamental principles of managing withdrawals for alcohol, cannabis, methamphetamine, and opioids.We examine the important decision of choosing between home-based detox and inpatient detox. We also explore the advantages and challenges of both approaches, considering factors such as the level of support, medical supervision, and individual needs.Withdrawal symptoms can be one of the most challenging aspects of addiction recovery. We tackle this topic head-on by providing a comprehensive overview of the management of withdrawals for alcohol, cannabis, methamphetamine, and opioids.

12 Juli 202336min

Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd delve into the grim reality of family violence, exposing its potential for lethality. They focus on key risk factors, including the perpetrators' behaviour towards pets and their use of jealousy as a tool for control. The discussion begins by highlighting the alarming connection between the mistreatment of animals and domestic violence. Steve Herd emphasises that harm to pets serves as a significant risk factor, revealing the narcissism and psychopathy behind the abusers' actions. Animals and people become pawns in their need for dominance, erasing any notion of respect for their victims. Dr. Armstrong further elucidates how the mistreatment of pets reflects the perpetrators' hunger for control. Their narrative of blame and avoidance of responsibility sets the stage for further violence. Dr. Armstrong chillingly suggests that targeting and harming pets often precede the escalation to harming a partner, indicating the dire situation at hand. The conversation then delves into the risk factors associated with lethality in family violence. Jealousy emerges as a toxic and obsessive behaviour, capable of being misinterpreted as an expression of love. Steve Herd and Dr. Armstrong explore the concept of Othello syndrome, characterised by delusional jealousy that can lead to tragic consequences, as seen in the Shakespearean play. Sexual violence takes centre stage as another high-risk factor for lethality. Steve Herd highlights the historical context surrounding marital rape, with its criminalisation only occurring in the 1990s. Dr. Armstrong challenges outdated beliefs, expressing concern over the perception of sexual violence as a right and the role of a submissive spouse. They emphasise that sexual violence stems from a desire for dominance and control rather than any biological need. The discussion concludes by reinforcing that the risk factors discussed are not isolated incidents but rather pervasive patterns within family violence. It is stressed that family violence is a gendered behaviour, driven by choices and a hunger for power. Steve Herd and Dr. Armstrong highlight the importance of addressing these issues comprehensively to effect meaningful change. In the final moments, Steve Herd and Dr. Armstrong emphasise the need to evaluate risk levels in cases of family violence. By critically assessing the identified risk factors, they can develop effective intervention strategies to protect potential victims. Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd in this revealing episode of Cracking Addiction, where they unravel the dark truths behind family violence, unmasking its potential for lethality and offering insights into the path to intervention.

5 Juli 202315min

In this serious and thought-provoking episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Mr. Stephen Heard shed light on evidence-based risk factors for lethality in family violence. They address the complexities faced by clinicians when dealing with female victims and emphasise the importance of understanding their resilience strategies. The episode explores the heightened risks during separation, with violence often escalating afterward. Herd stresses the need to prioritise safety by connecting victims with the police and relevant support services. They discuss the legal obligations associated with intervention orders, aiming to make clients aware of the protection they provide. The conversation delves into self-harm and suicide attempts by perpetrators, highlighting their controlling behaviours and the potential for murder-suicide. They caution against underestimating the significance of access to weapons in assessing risk. The discussion also touches upon factors like unemployment and drug misuse, which can amplify the severity and frequency of family violence. The episode concludes with a reminder to clinicians about the importance of planning for family violence and the role of distractions in reducing risk. Dr. Armstrong expresses gratitude to Steve Herd for his insights, leaving viewers with a deep understanding of the urgent need for proactive interventions. Content Warning: The episode contains discussions on sensitive topics such as domestic violence, self-harm, suicide, and murder-suicide. Viewer discretion is advised.

28 Juni 202318min

In this thought-provoking episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd delve into the grim reality of family violence, focusing on the evidence-based risk factors for lethality. With a serious tone, they shed light on the Common Risk Assessment Framework, which highlights factors that significantly contribute to the risk of lethality in domestic abuse cases. Drawing attention to the alarming statistics, the hosts reveal the distressing truth that more than one woman per week in Australia falls victim to fatal violence at the hands of a current or former partner. As the discussion unfolds, Ferghal and Steve underscore the importance of understanding high lethality factors in family violence, particularly the patterns of escalating violence. Steve Herd educates the audience about the chilling escalation of violence against women by partners, wherein physical abuse intensifies from a mere slap to a punch, and sometimes to a devastating push. Ferghal Armstrong emphasises the grave nature of strangulation as the most significant physical risk factor in these cases. Astonishingly, victims of family violence often fail to disclose incidents of strangulation, further complicating the identification and prevention of lethal outcomes. The hosts shine a light on the often-overlooked risk factor of choking, revealing how victims may not openly admit to experiencing strangulation. Dr Ferghal explains that strangulation poses a risk not only to lethality but also to significant morbidity. Shockingly, just 15 seconds of strangulation with a firm handshake grip strength is enough to cause urinary incontinence, while a mere 30 seconds can result in fecal incontinence. The episode explores the aftermath of family violence, emphasising that women who have experienced such abuse may downplay their ordeal but later recall waking up to find themselves wet or soiled. Furthermore, Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd shed light on the extensive damage strangulation can inflict, including harm to brain arteries, the thyroid gland, cartilage, and the voice box. This comprehensive discussion reveals the range of associated morbidities and illnesses, underscoring the urgent need to recognise and address strangulation as a high-risk factor that is often downplayed or misunderstood. As the episode concludes, Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd leave the audience with a heightened awareness of the hidden dangers within family violence, urging society to take a stand against this pervasive issue and prioritise the safety and well-being of those affected. Note: The content described in the episode summary is of a serious nature, focusing on the severity and impact of family violence. The tone of the description reflects this seriousness and aims to raise awareness about the subject matter.

21 Juni 202320min

In this informative episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura J. Petracek discuss the power of mindfulness and meditation in regulating our emotions. They explore the concept of mindfulness, which involves paying attention to the present moment without worrying about the past or future, and they explain how this can lead to decreased physiological responses and a lower heart rate. They also delve into the differences between mindfulness and meditation, and how both techniques can benefit the brain by increasing the size of certain areas and strengthening connections between them. Dr. Armstrong emphasises the importance of daily mindfulness practice, even if it's just for a few minutes, to build a strong foundation. Dr. Petracek agrees that it can be challenging but believes it sets the tone for a better day. They also touch on the non-judgmental aspect of mindfulness and how it can be incorporated into therapy, such as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). This video is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for emotional regulation. So, sit back, relax, and join Dr. Armstrong and Dr. Petracek as they guide you through the world of mindfulness and its many benefits. Don't forget to hit the like button and subscribe to our channel for more informative episodes!

14 Juni 202316min