In this Your Head In Mind episode, Kyle sits down with Jill Sitnik, founder of JourneySage, to explore her personal journey with PTSD and the life-changing effects of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. Together, they discuss the emotional and physical toll of trauma, the healing process, and the potential of psychedelics to transform mental health treatment. Jill shares her experiences with MDMA therapy, the importance of integration, and how imagination and community support play a vital role in recovery.

⚠️ Disclaimer:

This episode discusses sensitive topics, including PTSD, trauma, suicide, and psychedelic-assisted therapy, which may not be suitable for all listeners. MDMA therapy is still under clinical research and is not widely available or appropriate for everyone. Always consult a qualified medical professional before pursuing any mental health treatment. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please seek immediate help through a trusted mental health service.

🧠 Key Takeaways:

• MDMA therapy can reduce PTSD symptoms and foster empathy.
• Healing begins after the session, with preparation and integration being essential.
• Imagination and visualization can be powerful tools for trauma recovery.
• Community support and education help combat stigma around psychedelics.
• MDMA therapy isn’t a magic fix—it requires ongoing work and care.

💡 Resources:

🌿 Jill’s Organization – ⁠JourneySage⁠

📖 Jill's Book – Healing Jill + Companion Workbook

💊 Clinical Trials (UK) - MAC Clinical Research

💬 Join the Conversation – ⁠Your Head In Mind Forum⁠
🤝 Find Community Support – ⁠Your Head In Mind Services⁠
🚨 Need Immediate Help? – ⁠Your Head In Mind Urgent Support⁠

This episode offers a heartfelt look into the evolving landscape of mental health treatments and the power of connection, courage, and new therapies in the journey to recovery.

In this Your Head In Mind episode, Kyle and psychotherapist Bethan Heap discuss the journey of navigating personal and professional challenges while prioritizing mental health. They delve into overcoming dark moments, finding strength in community support, and the balance of sharing personal stories while respecting boundaries. The conversation highlights the power of vulnerability, connection, and resilience in managing life’s ups and downs.

🧠 Key Takeaways:

• Family time provides grounding and stability.
• Unrealistic standards can impede growth.
• Mental health challenges are common and valid.
• Community support is vital for recovery.
• Sharing experiences builds deeper connections.
• Setting boundaries enhances communication.
• Vulnerability fosters strong relationships.
• Trauma recovery requires compassion and care.

Resources:

• 🌱 Bethan's Psychotherapy Practice – Thryve
• 💬 Join the Discussion – Your Head In Mind Forum
• 🤝 Community Support – Your Head In Mind Services
• 🚨 Urgent Support – Your Head In Mind Urgent Support

For additional urgent resources, visit Mind’s Urgent Help Guide

In this episode of Your Head In Mind, Kyle and Clinical Counsellor Eric Fisher explore powerful therapeutic techniques, including Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and EMDR, for treating trauma. They discuss the practical applications of these methods, share impactful case studies, and highlight the roles of nature and discipline in mental health and recovery.

🧠 Key Takeaways:

• ART can resolve trauma in just one session.
• EMDR shifts negative core beliefs.
• Nature is essential for mental well-being.
• Discipline, such as from martial arts, supports therapy.
• Case studies show the effectiveness of therapy.
• Therapeutic approaches can be both somatic and metaphorical.
• Understanding the patient’s journey is crucial.
• Therapy can be personalized to individual needs.
• Support groups like Al-Anon offer additional help.
• Blending techniques enhances therapeutic impact.

Resources:

• 🌐 Addiction Support – intherooms.com
• 🧠 Mind’s Addiction Support List
• 📘 Eric's Book – The Martial Art of Recovery
• 📘 The Biology of Desire – Amazon

In this episode of Your Head In Mind, Kyle and sleep scientist Dr. Steven Lockley explore the essential role of sleep in cognitive function, emotional resilience, and overall health. Dr. Lockley breaks down sleep stages, circadian rhythms, and the effects of light and melatonin on sleep quality. They address common sleep myths, the link between sleep and mental health, and practical strategies to improve sleep. Dr. Lockley underscores the importance of prioritizing sleep for peak performance and well-being.

🧠 Key Takeaways:

• Sleep is crucial for cognitive and emotional health.
• It removes waste from the brain.
• Most adults need at least seven hours nightly.
• Circadian rhythms help regulate sleep cycles.
• Melatonin signals the brain for sleep.
• Caffeine boosts performance but disrupts sleep if consumed late.
• Sleep deprivation raises health risks.
• REM and non-REM stages aid recovery and memory.
• Sleep and mental health are closely linked.
• Regular schedules and reduced light enhance sleep quality.

Resources:

• 🕑 Jet Lag and Shift-Worker App
• 📘 Dr. Lockley's Book: A Very Short Introduction to Sleep
• 📖 Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker
• 🌐 Sleepio (Free via NHS)

Improve Your Sleep:

• 😴 Sleep Mask
• 👂 Ear Plugs
• 🧴 Relaxing Spray
• 🕶 Blue Light Blocking Glasses