Mental Health Today

If you're like millions of people over the last year during the COVID19 Pandemic, you have experienced signs of functional depression. You may have noticed an overall attitude of negativity, or maybe you want to not be as involved in activities as much as you used to.  In episode 90: Signs of Functional Depression, I talk about what the signs to look for, and what you can do to start feeling better today. Thanks for listening to the Mental Health Today Show. John Cordray, Board Certified Counselor   Transcript: Have you noticed a decrease in your attitude, maybe you're more negative, maybe you're feeling a little bit more numb to the world since the pandemic started over a year ago? And you just noticed that something is not quite right with how you're feeling. That's what we're going to talk about in episode 90: Signs of Functional Depression.  And welcome back to the mental health show today. My name is John Cordray, I am a board-certified counselor. And I am so glad that you&

Three Common Mental Health Issues Among Young Adults If you are a young adult between the ages 18 to 25 you have likely experienced anxiety, stress, or depression. Maybe you are going through this now. In this episode, I talk about the single most important thing you need to do if you struggle with a mental health issue. You are not alone, 1 in 4 young adults struggle with anxiety, stress, or depression at some time in their life before they turn 30.  Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel Thanks for listening, John  Smells Like Humans Like listening to funny friends discuss curious human behavior. Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the showRate the show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider providing an honest rating of the show here www.mentalhealthtodayshow.com/reviews/new . Disclaimer: The Mental Health Today Show is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as therapy. If you are seeking therapy, please contact a licensed therapist for help. Adve

Does anxiety keep you up at night? Do you toss and turn, because you can't stop worrying about things you can't control? In episode 88, I talk about anxiety and sleepless nights, as well as answer viewer questions from YouTube Live. You can work on getting a better night's sleep, and you can start tonight! Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel here. Thanks for listening to the Mental Health Today Show, John Cordray. Smells Like Humans Like listening to funny friends discuss curious human behavior. Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the showRate the show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider providing an honest rating of the show here www.mentalhealthtodayshow.com/reviews/new . Disclaimer: The Mental Health Today Show is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as therapy. If you are seeking therapy, please contact a licensed therapist for help. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Have you ever said something so stupid that it made you feel like a failure?  Have you ever messed up and were so embarrassed that you felt like something was wrong with you? In this episode, I talk about where feeling like a failure often comes from and what you can do to work on it.  I also talk about the difference between a feeling and a belief and which one is normal, and which one can lead to a problem. Thanks for listening to the Mental Health Today Show! John Cordray, Board Certified Counselor Smells Like Humans Like listening to funny friends discuss curious human behavior. Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the showRate the show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider providing an honest rating of the show here www.mentalhealthtodayshow.com/reviews/new . Disclaimer: The Mental Health Today Show is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as therapy. If you are seeking therapy, please contact a licensed therapist for help. Advertising Inquiries: https://red

School Safety and Mental Health, Episode 86 It doesn't matter when you listen to this episode, it will always be relevant. School Safety is in the hearts and minds of most people all over the world.  It seems like every day there is a new story talking about a school shooting, teen suicide, or some other tragic crisis among our young people. In this episode, John talks about the importance of prevention and mental health for our young people, and what we all can do to help.  John also talks about why he's been gone from his podcast for a while, and what he is doing now. If you are school staff, administration, parent, or student you need to listen to this episode! You can reach John on his website johncordray.com and on Twitter @JohnPCordray. Support the showRate the show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider providing an honest rating of the show here www.mentalhealthtodayshow.com/reviews/new . Disclaimer: The Mental Health Today Show is for educational purposes only and should not be

Signs of Depression If you think you may have depression or if you think someone you know has depression this episode is for you. Depression is an often misunderstood emotion and many simply try to deny it. But, depression should never be ignored.  In this episode, John talks about the difference between feeling, 'down-in-the-dumps and full-blown depression. John talks about the current situation with the flooding in his home town to address this important topic. A few signs of depression that John talks about: Withdraw Sudden personality change Lack on interest Change in appetite and sleep patterns Learn what the biggest thing to do if you are depressed or if you want to help someone who is in this episode.  Support the Show You can support the show by visiting www.thementalhealthtodayshow.com or www.patreon.com/johnpcordray Follow The Mental Health Today Show on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thementalhealthtodayshow   As always, thanks for listening! John Support the showRate the show: If

Does Faith Play a Role in Mental Health? This is a great question from listener who asked me about my opinion about faith and mental health. I am a Christian, in fact, I spent 25 years in youth ministry helping teens navigate the up's and down's of life and helping them live their live's for Christ. So, when I was asked this question I was eager to talk about it on my show. As a therapist I offer Christian counseling, but only to those who desire it. I realize that many of my clients are not Christians, just like I know many of my listeners are not Christians, and I want to make sure they (and possibly you), understand that I do not judge you for believing something different than me. I have talked with many Christians who struggle deeply with their mental health and therefore, struggle deeply with their faith that God still loves them. In this episode I address some of the concerns within the church that I have heard from people who struggle with mental health issues. Feeling judged by othe

Are you feeling overwhelmed and anxious? If you have ever had a panic attack, you know how scary it can be. In this episode of my podcast, John talks about where panic attacks come from and what simple things you can do right now to stop them. Most people misidentify a panic attack as a heart attack. Although the two can have similar symptoms, they are very different. It's important to remember that if you believe you are having a heart attack, don't ignore it and get help immediately. Common symptoms of a panic attack include heart racing, hot flashes, sweaty palms and forehead, irrational thoughts, and dizziness. John provides great tips about what you can do right now to be proactive before your next panic attack. Panic attacks can come out of nowhere and it's best to know what to do when they hit. He also discusses where they come from and how to identify the signs and symptoms. If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't be afraid to listen to this episode. It's packed with helpful ti

Don't Feed the Bully! How to Deal with External and Internal Bullies   Can you think of a bully you have had in your life? Maybe you're experiencing a bully right now.  In this episode: John tells a story of almost getting beat up in high school by the meanest, toughest bully in his school and what surprised him. What to do with the internal bully. How to stand up to your bullies. Why standing up to a bully can be the hardest and best thing you can do for yourself. Every time you give into a bully and believe their harmful lies you feed the bully. The more you feed the bully, the bigger they get. You can stand up to your bullies! Learn how to stand up to them the right way and you'll soon discover your inner strength.  *** Support the show: Visit www.patreon.com/johnpcordray to help keep the show on the air.      Visit www.thementalhealthtodayshow.com for more information. Watch this episode at www.facebook.com/thementalhealthtodayshow     Smells Like Humans Like listening to fun

How You Can Support the Show! Visit http://www.patreon.com/johnpcordray to support the show. This was recorded for John's Patreon page.    ABOUT ME I'm John Cordray, a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Therapist and I own a private practice in St. Louis, Missouri. I started podcasting and broadcasting video (Live & Edited) in 2015. I'm using Patreon to help find people who believe in the message that I am providing to help people around the world learn to cope with a mental illness. I hope to find individuals to support what I do with my podcast and videos to help me pay for equipment and to help cover other expenses that go into production. ABOUT THE SHOW Helping End the Stigma of Mental Illness One Show at a Time. The Mental Health Today Show started as a podcast helping thousands around the world with mental health topics. The show recently added live video on Facebook Live, where John interviews guests and encourages people who struggle with a mental health i

Hollywood Actress, Erin Marie Hogan, Opens Up About Her Battle with Anxiety and Depression Have you ever wondered how an actor could be in a film, yet struggle with a mental illness? Think Robin Williams, Erin Bell, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and many more.  I think we sometimes assume that movie stars have it made and live a perfect life, but as you will hear from Erin, it's not always as glamorous as it may seem.   Erin talks about when her anxiety and panic attacks began, what triggered her first panic attack, and what she is most known for as an actress. Erin is best known for her role as Samantha Finley in Paranormal Entity and has starred in Hold Your Breath (Natasha), House of Manson (Linda Kasabian) and she has played on many TV shows including,The Bold and the Beautiful.   IMDb: www.imdb.me/erinmariehogan   *** Support the Show! Please consider supporting the show by visiting my Patreon account. Every little bit helps me produce great shows like this. Visit www.patreon.com/johnpc

Is Anxiety Really a Thing? I have been asked this question many times and I wanted to address this topic today. This podcast has been also recorded on The Mental Health Today Show Facebook Live. In this episode John talks about: The difference between worry and anxiety The importance of speaking up Anxiety in kids Taking ownership of your anxiety To watch this episode on Facebook visit The Mental Health Today Show Facebook Page. Be sure to "Like" the page to be notified of updates and other live recordings. If you're interested in being a "producer" that John talked about in this episode visit John's Patreon page to learn more at www.patreon.com/johnpcordray Follow John on Twitter Visit John's website at www.johncordray.com   Thanks for listening! John Smells Like Humans Like listening to funny friends discuss curious human behavior. Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the showRate the show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider providing an honest ra

PTSD and Firefighters with Carl Waggett Carl has been a full-time firefighter for 15 years and he is currently the acting captain of his firehouse. Carl talks about his denial that PTSD was real, to why it's so important to get the help you need. Carl recently had a dear friend end his life and now Carl wants to helps others to not feel the despair and hopeless that PTSD often inflicts. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is very common, and does not only affect first responder and military personnel.  Carl talks about the importance to not give in to being alone or to push others away when your struggling. Carl's two biggest tips are: 1. Don't do this alone. 2. Seek out help from a professional Carl's podcast (iTunes) Carl's blog *** Please consider supporting me on Patreon to help cover production cost (as little as $3 /mo)  www.patreon.com/johnpcordray   This interview can also be watched on Facebook @JohnPCordray and on Youtube @JohnPCordray Tweet John here John's we

How to Help an Anxious Person Without Being a Jerk   Most people want to help, and they mean well, but sometimes it comes out wrong. John provides helpful tips for someone who wants to help an anxious person and for the anxious person to speak up and say what would be helpful. If you are someone who is anxious a lot, you've probably have had someone in your life say things that made you feel dumb. Things like "Try to think more positive" or "Just do it and it will be fine" or better yet, "Just snap out of it". These comments are not helpful. In fact, they can make things worse. Here are a few tips for both the helper and the anxious person. For the Helper: 1. Don't offer advice. If you have never had true anxiety before you really don't understand what it's like. 2. Do say that you want to understand. It's okay to ask the person what it's like to live with anxiety and how bad it currently is. 3. Don't always try to offer a solution. Calming anxiety i

You Only Have One Life To Live How would you act if you knew if you were going to die at the end of the week? Would knowing that you did not have much time make you have a sense of urgency to change your mindset about your life? There is so much hate and hurt in our world today that I think we often take our life for granted. We assume that we have plenty of time left on this earth - but we don't really know that. How about, instead of hating and hurting people, instead of tearing them down and judging the way they look or believe, we treat all people with respect and dignity that they deserve. We only have one life to live and we should live it to it's fullest. To be helpful to our fellow man, instead of criticizing.  How will you live the only life you have? I choose to live my life by loving others and promoting respect and positivity. I hope you'll do the same. *** Follow John on Twitter at www.twitter.com/johnpcordray Learn more about John at www.johncordray.com Join John's Fac

How Self Awareness is Vital to Emotional Health Understanding who you are and what makes you tick is pivotal for developing a healthy emotional life.  John talks about how many people end up on one end of the spectrum of either self doubt or self inflation.  Having self awareness means that you know and understand what your weaknesses are and working towards becoming a better person. Many people are either living in self doubt and shame and can only focus on their weakness. This allows for low self confidence to take over which often creates anxiety and depression. Other people tend to focus on their strengths and become arrogant and haughty. This allows for judgement and entitlement to take over which often leads to putting others down in order to build themselves up. John talks about how to achieve a healthy emotional balance which is good for everyone. *** Follow John on Twitter at www.twitter.com/johnpcordray Learn more about John at www.johncordray.com Watch this episode at https://youtu.be/2x3

Recovering From Grief and Loss   Going through a loss of a loved one, or even a beloved pet can be so difficult, and almost unbearable for some. In this episode, John talks about how everyone grieve's in their own way, but it's important to know when to move forward. Moving forward from a loss does not mean forgetting. It means you realize moving on means celebrating the life that was loss. You will always have a whole in your heart, but you can, and must, recover and live. Some people talk about the 5 Stages of Grief, but John realizes that not everyone finds those particular stages helpful. If you have or are experiencing a loss, please find others who knew the person who has passed and try to share memories and even funny moments. Your loved one would want you to be happy instead of stuck deep into depression. You WILL be okay! *** Follow John on Twitter at www.twitter.com/johnpcordray Learn more about John at www.johncordray.com Watch The Mental Health Today Show here www.youtube.com/c/

Meditation May Be Just What You Need Life is full of stress, deadlines and overwhelm and you may need to do something about your life before you have a mental breakdown.  Meditation may seem weird or a bit mystical to you, but meditation has been practiced by most religions for centuries. Meditation does not have to be weird or mystical, but it will likely help you become more self-aware and confident than ever. You can practice meditation anywhere and at any time and it involves these elements: Clearing your mind Calming your heart Being in the moment (mindfulness) If you are stressed, have a hard time sleeping, or feel overwhelmed, meditation may be just what you need. Try it, you just may become a calmer person. *** Watch this episode here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9RuqQVgRHo Follow John on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/johnpcordray Learn more about John http://www.johncordray.com     Support the showRate the show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider providing an honest ratin

Dealing with Suicidal Thoughts   Many people deal with suicidal thoughts every day. Sadly, suicide is the second leading cause of death among our young people. If you are dealing with suicidal thoughts you have options.  There are many different reasons why someone would think about ending their own life, and many of the thoughts involve some form of distorted thinking that somehow everyone would be better off. But, that's far from the truth. If you are dealing with suicidal thoughts there are people who care about you.  Find a good friend or family member to talk with, or contact a suicide lifeline to talk to someone who cares. In the US contact the Suicide Prevention Life Line (800-273-8255) or go to their website www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org For my international friends visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention at www.iasp.info There is always help when you are at your darkest hour. Please don't give up hope, tomorrow is a new day. *** Follow John on Twitter www.twit

Emotional Abuse is a Silent Killer Emotional abuse - is abuse (period)! Emotional abuse can be just as harmful as physical abuse, but emotional abuse is not that easy to identify. Emotional abuse is when someone constantly belittles another person for the purpose of building themselves up. Emotional abuse is never okay, and should never be dismissed. If you believe you are in an emotionally abusive relationship get help. Find a therapist to help you establish healthy boundaries and help you establish your next steps to be safe. *** You can watch this episode at https://youtu.be/A4t_kCntgEA Follow John on Twitter @JohnPCordray www.twitter.com/johnpcordray Learn more about John at www.johncordray.com Join John's Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/keepcalmacademy     Support the showRate the show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider providing an honest rating of the show here www.mentalhealthtodayshow.com/reviews/new . Disclaimer: The Mental Health Today Show is for educational p