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Acronym Minds

Acronym Minds

By: Josie Maskell
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About this listen

A podcast where we unpack the letters that shape our inner worlds. From ADHD to PTSD, OCD to ASD, we explore the acronyms behind mental health, neurodivergence and everyday life - not just what they mean, but what they feel like. Replacing stigma with understanding, and labels with lived experience. Diving deep into the language, science, and stories behind the acronyms that often go unspoken. Where neurodivergence meets nuance... and where you’re always more than just a label.Copyright 2025 All rights reserved. Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
Episodes
  • Ep. 15 OCD Under the Microscope: Myths, Facts, & Realities with Josie Maskell
    Oct 19 2025

    Lets take an in-depth look at Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, yet remains widely misunderstood.

    We break down the science, the symptoms, and the challenges that those living with OCD face every day. From intrusive thoughts to compulsive behaviors, we explore how OCD manifests in different people, and how it impacts ones life in often hidden ways.

    Host Josie Maskell brings her own lived experience into the conversation, offering a raw and honest perspective on what it’s really like to navigate life with OCD. Whether you’re personally affected by OCD or simply want to understand it better, this episode will challenge the stereotypes surrounding this mental health condition.

    Whether you're someone who struggles with OCD or just want to understand it better, this episode will shed light on the complexities of this mental health disorder and challenge the stereotypes that often surround it.

    To add an unexpected twist, we’ll also use a playful game of Mario Kart to highlight how OCD can show up in surprising ways. Tune in to uncover the truths behind OCD that often go overlooked and enjoy the ride along the way. Enjoy!

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    44 mins
  • Ep. 14 The Power of Connection: Navigating Mental Health Through Discomfort with Nath Ryan
    Oct 5 2025

    Get to know Nath as we explore the transformative power of human connection in the journey of healing and personal growth.

    Nath opens up about his own experiences, reflecting on the impact that addiction, drugs, alcohol, and even thoughts of suicide have had on his life. He shares his personal journey through these dark moments and how it was only through leaning into vulnerability, confronting discomfort, and building meaningful connections that he found the strength to rebuild.

    We dive into the often-overlooked role of discomfort in personal development, discussing how leaning into vulnerability though difficult times can unlock profound moments of self-awareness and resilience.

    Nath shares his insights on why true healing doesn’t come from avoiding pain, but from embracing it, even when it feels insurmountable.

    This conversation touches on the harsh realities of addiction and suicidal thoughts, but also explores the hope and possibility that emerge when we reach out for help, face our demons head-on, and allow ourselves to heal with the support of others.

    Nath's story is a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to show up for ourselves and others, especially when we’re at our lowest points.

    Whether you're navigating your own mental health journey, struggling with addiction, or simply seeking deeper connections, this episode offers valuable insights on the importance of vulnerability, empathy, and finding strength in the relationships that can help carry us through our darkest times.

    @nathhryann shares some wonderful takeaways throughout this episode, shown below.

    "Comparison is the thief of joy"

    A powerful and timeless quote, often attributed to Theodore Roosevelt. It captures the idea that constantly comparing ourselves to others can rob us of the contentment and satisfaction we might otherwise feel.

    Nath touched on a powerful metaphor Stephen Fry used in discussing depression and mental health. Fry described depression as feeling like it’s "raining in your head" a constant, overwhelming weight of darkness and heaviness. But, importantly, he emphasized that just as the weather changes, the sun will eventually come out. Nath referred to this metaphor when discussing his own mental health struggles.

    Nath refers to Simon Sinek's idea about how spending just 8 minutes of intentional, focused time with someone can profoundly impact their mental health and sense of belonging making them feel heard, seen and felt.

    Enjoy!

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Ep. 13 Therapy Isn't One-Size-Fits-All: Options You Didn’t Know Existed with Josie Maskell
    Oct 5 2025

    Let's explore the wonderful world of therapy beyond just the traditional talk therapies. Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, and the right approach for you might be something you haven't even considered yet.

    From talk therapies to art therapy and sound healing to equine-assisted therapy and beyond, we dive into alternative options that cater to different personalities, needs, and preferences.

    Whether you're looking for something more creative, experiential, or outside the box, this episode will open your eyes to the many ways you can heal and grow.

    Support should feel safe, affirming, and actually accessible. Let’s rethink what therapy can look like. Tune in to discover the therapy options you didn't know existed. Enjoy!

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    45 mins
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