Tony delves into smiling depression, medication, and natural ways to improve brain chemistry, Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), formerly known as dysthymia- and much more! NOTE - Tony is not a doctor, and he shares a helpful way of how medications work that was explained to him, including what neurotransmitters are. What roles do serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, GABA, and glutamate play in one's mental health, and why do so many of the medications involve “reuptaking,” and what does that mean? Tony’s advice is not to be viewed as a replacement for medical advice; he strongly recommends that people meet regularly with their doctor for medical advice. 

Tony explores the differences between various mental health conditions like PDD, OCD, NPD, and more. He also explores the historical context of dysthymia, the changes in diagnostic criteria with the release of DSM-5, the significance of moving the diagnosis from a personality disorder to a mood disorder, and how the two differ. 

Additionally, we will discuss treatment options, including therapy and medication, and more practical advice for those struggling with chronic low-grade depression. 

This episode is packed with insights and is a perfect listen before Thanksgiving for some psychological fun facts to share around the family table.

Find more from Tony Overbay:

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@virtualcouch 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/virtual.couch/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonyoverbaylmft/

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-virtual-couch/id1275153998

Website: https://www.tonyoverbay.com/ 

Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/virtualcouch

Chapters:

00:00 Decoding the Alphabet Soup of Mental Health

02:12 Introduction to the Podcast and Host

02:38 Understanding Dysthymia & Persistent Depressive Disorder

04:44 DSM & ICD: Mental Health Diagnostic Tools

15:54 Personality Disorders vs. Mood Disorders

22:51 Exploring the History & Impact of Dysthymia

25:41 Causes and Management of Persistent Depressive Disorder

28:24 Role of a Muse in Self-Discovery

29:02 Impact of Stress on Mental Health

29:13 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

29:33 Understanding Your Emotions

30:28 Treating Persistent Depressive Disorder

31:36 Science Behind Neurotransmitters

33:43 How Reuptake Inhibitors Work

45:50 Natural Ways to Improve Brain Chemistry

47:17 Understanding Dysthymia

51:07 Your Journey of Personal Growth