#15 - Paul Conti, M.D.: trauma, suicide, community, and self-compassion

In this episode, psychiatrist Paul Conti, M.D. discusses the impact of untreated trauma, the rising rate of suicide, and the influence of modern society on mental health, to name a few important topics covered. Paul also talks about how to deal with these challenges for yourself, your loved ones, and the community at large. We discuss: Paul’s background, and what drove him to psychiatry [5:00]; How silent bravado and incessant striving can lead to a functional (and actual) death, and why Paul is critical of the current state of psychiatry [14:45]; Psychedelics, psychotherapy and the dissolution of the ego [20:30]; How current society may be contributing to the increasing amount of suffering [25:00]; The ubiquity and impact of untreated trauma [31:45]; The rising rate of suicide, parasuicide, and “accidental” death [35:30]; Types of trauma, why we minimize it, and Peter’s introduction to Bridge to Recovery [44:00]; Triggering shame and fear, childhood trauma, and why trauma doesn’t care about time [48:00]; The impact of the brain on the body, and overcoming trauma with self-awareness [55:00]; How to recognize and stop the cycle of shame transference [1:04:30]; Peter’s profound experience at Bridge to Recovery, and the importance of finding shared experiences with others [1:11:15]; How to identify and deal with our own personal trauma [1:19:00]; Finding meaning in struggle, why we are less happy than ever, and the impact of an isolated society [1:25:30]; What steps can we take as a society to make an appreciable impact on the rising sense of desperation and misery? [1:43:15]; Resources, book recommendations, and things you can do [1:56:15]; and More. Learn more at www.PeterAttiaMD.com Connect with Peter on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram.