In this heartfelt episode of The Modern Day Overthinker Podcast, host Collin Strajack returns after a transformative hiatus to share his journey through OCD treatment. After months of debilitating intrusive thoughts and isolation, Collin opens up about his 60-day residential treatment in Wisconsin, where he tackled his OCD with exposure response prevention (ERP) therapy. From chaotic yet bonding moments with fellow patients to finding solace in comedy as therapy, Collin reflects on his path to recovery. Now back home, he discusses balancing work, ongoing therapy, and personal growth while challenging the grip OCD once had on his life. With gratitude for his supportive family, friends, and recovery community, Collin delivers an honest, inspiring update on facing fears head-on and reclaiming his values.

In this episode of the "Modern Day Overthinker" podcast, host Collin Strajack talks with guest Bailee Huethert about personal struggles and recovery, particularly in the context of addiction.

Bailee shares her journey into recovery, which began unexpectedly during a work trip away from familiar support structures, leading her to her first recovery meeting. She delves into the challenges of recovery, emphasizing the difference between mere abstinence and true recovery, a distinction highlighted by her father's insights.

A significant part of the conversation focuses on Bailee's battles with mental health issues, including severe depression diagnosed from a young age, and her complex relationship with her mother, which feeds into her complex PTSD. She discusses the importance of support systems and being truthful in therapeutic settings to truly benefit from them.

Bailee and Collin also touch upon lighter topics, such as gaming and living arrangements, providing a break from the more intense themes of addiction and recovery. They discuss the impact of COVID-19 on personal relationships and the commonality of coping mechanisms that people often adopt in stressful times.

Towards the end of the podcast, there's a shift towards a discussion of faith and spirituality. Bailee expresses a nuanced view on organized religion, suggesting that while it does not currently meet her needs, she recognizes its value for others and does not completely close off the possibility of it playing a role in her future.

Overall, this episode of the podcast offers a deep dive into the challenges and nuances of personal recovery and mental health, balanced with everyday realities and a touch of humor, providing a comprehensive and relatable discussion for listeners.

For all the links:
www.moderndayoverthinker.com

In a candid and heartfelt episode of the Modern Day Overthinker podcast, host Collin Strajack opens up about his recent struggles with OCD, anxiety, and depression, shedding light on the inner turmoil that led to a hiatus from the podcast. Collin delves into the challenging OCD loops that trapped him, detailing the compulsive behaviors that disrupted his ability to post episodes and the mental battles that ensued. Despite significant personal achievements, such as receiving a promotion at work and deepening his faith, Collin faced overwhelming anxiety that led him to consider serious measures for his mental health.

Collin's story is one of resilience in the face of mental health challenges. He discusses his journey with therapy, the importance of not avoiding problems, and how his OCD, termed the "doubt disorder," impacts his life by attacking his values and causing him to question his actions and thoughts. This episode is a frank discussion about the reality of living with OCD, including the intrusive thoughts and compulsions that characterize the disorder, and the constant battle with self-doubt and the fear of not being good enough.

Throughout the episode, Collin emphasizes the importance of seeking help, the power of small victories, and the role of faith and community in his recovery process. He shares his experiences with substance abuse recovery, the significance of fellowship, and how being open and vulnerable has helped him connect with others. Collin also explores his passion for comedy as a form of expression and healing, the impact of his mental health on his relationships and self-image, and his decision to try ketamine-assisted psychotherapy as a new avenue for treatment.

The podcast episode is not just a personal narrative but a message of hope and encouragement for others facing similar struggles. Collin encourages listeners to reach out for help, to set small, achievable goals, and to remember that dark periods do not last forever. He highlights the importance of community, checking in with oneself and others, and continuing to pursue one's passions and goals despite the challenges posed by mental health issues.

This podcast description was written by AI, not me. -Collin

I hope you enjoyed this episode and if just one person got some hope from it, that's a win for me.

www.moderndayoverthinker.com for all the links